University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center Program

Program Overview

The Allergy and Immunology Fellowship Program at the University of Iowa is a two-year ACGME-accredited training program designed for physicians who have completed a residency in either internal medicine or pediatrics and wish to specialize in allergy and immunology. The program emphasizes comprehensive clinical training and provides fellows with opportunities for research, clinical practice, and teaching.2

Fellows gain substantial experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions in both adult and pediatric populations. The program prepares trainees to engage in multidisciplinary approaches for patient management and encourages involvement in clinical trials and research.2

Curriculum and Training

Year One

During the first year, fellows participate in intensive clinical training through outpatient clinics, inpatient consults, and specialized clinics such as drug allergy and immunodeficiency clinics. This year encourages the development of procedural skills including allergy skin testing, allergen immunotherapy, and desensitization techniques.18

A significant component of Year One involves direct supervision from faculty members, fostering opportunities for fellows to learn about clinical evaluations, diagnostic testing, and therapeutic planning. Educational activities such as Immunology Grand Rounds, journal clubs, and CME courses are integral to their training during this year.11

Year Two

The second year focuses on consolidating clinical experiences while adding leadership roles. It includes rotations in pediatric rheumatology and HIV medicine, alongside continued participation in outpatient clinics and teaching responsibilities. This year also promotes scholarly activities where fellows are expected to submit abstracts to national conferences and articles to peer-reviewed journals.21

Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on research, providing fellows access to the Center of Immunology and Immune-Based Disorders. Clinical, translational, and basic research opportunities are available, particularly in areas like tumor immunology, food allergy, and drug evaluation.19

Fellows interested in academia may engage in specific pathways that allow them additional research training. The program supports applications for NIH T32 training grants, premised on obtaining appropriate funding.21

Clinical Experience

Fellows are involved in both inpatient and outpatient care, managing a diverse array of presentations including asthma, food allergies, and immunological disorders. The Allergy and Immunology Division collaborates with various departments to enhance the educational experience.7

The program incorporates an immersive consult experience where fellows evaluate and manage both adult and pediatric cases with guidance from faculty.4

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program hosts specialized clinics focused on rare disorders, including one of the only multidisciplinary drug allergy clinics in Iowa.5

It also includes unique training programs such as the "Fellows as Clinician Educators (FACE) Program," which focuses on developing teaching skills alongside clinical expertise.13

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is open to both U.S. citizens and international medical graduates (IMGs) and can support J-1 and H-1B visa applications for eligible candidates.22

As a highly competitive fellowship, applicants are advised to have strong clinical backgrounds and a commitment to research and education within the field. The program particularly welcomes candidates with diverse backgrounds, including those from DO (Doctor of Osteopathy) and IMG specialties.22

Application Requirements

Applicants must have completed a residency in internal medicine or pediatrics and be eligible for subspecialty board certification. Required application materials include a complete ERAS application with curriculum vitae, personal statement, and reference letters. Recent scores from the USMLE (Steps I, II, and III) also need to be included.10

The application deadline typically aligns with September 1, as applications are reviewed until the interview slots are filled.10

Supervision and Duty Hours

Fellows receive ongoing supervision from faculty members throughout their training. Work hours are structured and limited to not exceed 80 hours per week on average, ensuring appropriate time for rest and personal commitments.21