University of Maryland Program

The University of Maryland Neurocritical Care Fellowship offers a highly regarded training program designed to equip fellows with a comprehensive set of skills in the management of critically ill patients with neurological conditions. This ACGME-accredited, two-year fellowship provides an exceptional blend of clinical training, research opportunities, and robust educational resources.

Program Overview

The fellowship is situated within one of the largest critical care campuses in the United States, which features approximately 180 critical care beds at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, the largest trauma center in the country, welcoming around 1200 traumatic brain injury visits annually. This setting allows fellows to engage with an exceptionally high volume of neurovascular and neurotrauma cases, thereby enhancing their clinical acumen and procedural skills.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

Several unique features distinguish the University of Maryland Neurocritical Care Fellowship:

• Extensive exposure to high-acuity patients in the neurocritical care unit.
• Emphasis on multidisciplinary teaching collaborations and educational experiences.
• High procedural volume, including training in critical care techniques such as continuous veno-venous hemodiafiltration (CVVH) and plasmapheresis (PLEX).
• Structured curriculum focused on critical care ultrasound, simulation training, and leadership development.1

Clinical Rotations

Fellows will participate in a diverse range of clinical rotations throughout the fellowship:

• Neurocritical Care Unit: A primary focus of the first seven months will be spent in the Neurocritical Care and Emergency Neurology Unit, where fellows will acquire expertise in managing complex cases, leading teams, and participating in comprehensive care planning.
• Neurotrauma Unit: Fellows will spend three months in a neurotrauma unit with a caseload of more than 400 annual moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries, gaining first-hand experience in critical trauma management.
• Critical Care Rotations: Additional six-month training outside neurocritical care will include placements in surgical ICU, medical ICU, and airway management rotations, ensuring well-rounded training in various critical care disciplines.7

Research Opportunities

The fellowship strongly encourages participation in research activities, with ongoing projects addressing various topics including stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, and traumatic brain injury. Current fellows are expected to engage in clinical trials and associated research, with prior fellows presenting work at national conferences. The fellowship also facilitates collaboration with various basic science labs focused on neurocritical care.8

Educational Structure and Didactics

The program includes a robust educational structure with frequent didactic sessions:

• Weekly conferences including Trauma Conference, Neurocritical Care Conference, and Grand Rounds featuring expert speakers.
• Hands-on workshops as part of a Summer Education Block dedicated to introducing essential critical care skills.
• Access to a rich array of didactics covering multiple critical care topics, enhancing clinical knowledge and research application methods.3

Application Process

To apply to the Neurocritical Care Fellowship at the University of Maryland, candidates must submit through the SF Match program. The application requires three letters of recommendation, a CV, a personal statement, and a copy of the USMLE transcript. The application deadline is set for March 21, 2025.6

Visa Support

The University of Maryland Neurocritical Care Fellowship provides visa sponsorship for eligible international applicants, including J-1 and H-1B visa types, allowing fellows from diverse backgrounds to participate in the program.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

This fellowship is competitive, attracting a diverse range of applicants, including both DOs and international medical graduates (IMGs). Candidates are encouraged to present strong academic backgrounds and comprehensive clinical experiences during their application time frame.

Special application requirements may include limitations on the number of attempts for licensing examinations; therefore, applicants are advised to present their qualifications accordingly.5

Living in Baltimore

Living in Baltimore offers a dynamic environment for residents and fellows, with a vibrant culture and numerous opportunities for recreation and professional growth. Educational resources and community events are abundant, catering to both personal and professional needs.7