University of Louisville School of Medicine Program

The Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship at the University of Louisville School of Medicine offers a comprehensive training program designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary for fellows to provide exceptional clinical care for children with pulmonary issues. The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and aligns with the requirements for Pediatric Pulmonology certification by the Pulmonology Subboard of the American Board of Pediatrics.

The primary aim of this fellowship is to meet the unique career goals of each fellow through a customizable training approach. Fellows have the opportunity to engage in advanced degree programs, such as a Master’s in Clinical Investigation or Public Health, which cover various topics, including research science, manuscript writing, grant writing, epidemiology, and biostatistics. This ensures that fellows not only acquire clinical expertise but also gain a solid foundation in research methodologies and critical thinking skills necessary for a successful career in pediatric pulmonology 1.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship is structured with a total of 36 months of training comprising of 17 months in clinical rotations, 16 months dedicated to research, and a 3-month vacation period. This well-rounded experience allows fellows to engage deeply in both clinical and research activities, enabling them to develop as knowledgeable practitioners and researchers in pediatric pulmonary medicine 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship experience. Fellows are encouraged to identify their research interests early in the program and establish mentorship with faculty members who specialize in various areas, including severe asthma, cystic fibrosis, and chronic lung diseases. Dedicated months for research ensure that fellows have ample opportunity to produce significant work, with the expectation that every fellow will have submitted a publication by the completion of their fellowship 1.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship faculty consists of board-certified pediatricians and pediatric pulmonologists who are recognized as exceptional educators and mentors. Their expertise spans a wide range of pediatric pulmonary conditions, providing fellows with a rich learning environment that emphasizes clinical excellence and teaching. Furthermore, faculty members are deeply involved in research, mentoring fellows to cultivate their academic interests and guide them through quality improvement initiatives and leadership roles 2.

Training Sites and Clinical Exposure

Fellows gain clinical experience across multiple facilities, including Norton Children's Hospital and associated outpatient clinics. This diverse exposure allows fellows to manage a variety of cases ranging from infantile wheezing to more complex chronic lung diseases. The program's affiliation with specialized centers, such as the Cystic Fibrosis Center, ensures that fellows receive training in state-of-the-art practices and treatment protocols for pediatric pulmonary conditions 2.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The pediatric pulmonology fellowship is distinguished by its commitment to fellow wellbeing and a well-balanced fellowship experience. Each fellow is supported in their personal and professional growth through various wellness initiatives 1. The program also emphasizes the development of teaching skills, enabling fellows to become effective educators for future generations of physicians.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is open to international medical graduates (IMGs) and offers visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types, making it favorable for candidates from diverse backgrounds. Given the high standard of training and opportunities, the fellowship is competitive, attracting a wide range of qualified applicants, including both U.S. graduates and IMGs 2.

Application Requirements

Prospective applicants should ensure that they meet specific application criteria, such as graduation year limits and the maximum number of failed STEP exams. These requirements are crucial for maintaining the quality and competitiveness of the fellowship 1.