University of Mississippi Medical Center Program

The Sleep Medicine Fellowship at the University of Mississippi Medical Center provides a comprehensive training experience in the diagnosis and management of sleep disorders. This program is a multidisciplinary training opportunity, reflecting the integration of various specialties, including psychiatry, neurology, internal medicine, ENT, and pediatrics. With the longest-standing accreditation from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) in Mississippi, the program has established a strong reputation for providing exceptional medical training.

Curriculum

The fellowship curriculum is structured to provide in-depth knowledge and clinical exposure. Trainees engage in a variety of clinical experiences, covering essential aspects of sleep medicine. The fellowship includes direct patient care through comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment of sleep disorders such as insomnia, narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and REM sleep behavior disorder. Fellows will conduct and interpret diagnostic studies, including nocturnal polysomnography and Multiple Sleep Latency Tests, as part of the curriculum. Repeated assessments of treatment efficacy and tailoring follow-up plans ensure that fellows gain a thorough understanding of patient management in sleep medicine 1.

Rotations and Training Sites

Fellows have the opportunity to work in various clinical settings, enhancing their experience in sleep medicine. Key training sites include:

• University of Mississippi Medical Center: The central site for most training, providing exposure to a diverse patient population and a robust range of sleep disorders.
• G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery VA Center: Offering valuable insights into sleep medicine management within veteran populations.
• Sleep Disorder Center: Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, this center allows fellows to learn from experienced clinicians while actively engaging in research opportunities and quality improvement projects.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital component of the fellowship, encouraging fellows to explore various areas in sleep medicine. Collaborations with faculty from multiple disciplines foster a rich environment for pioneering research initiatives. Current fellows are guided by faculty mentors throughout their projects, which may range from clinical studies to population health analyses 1.

Visa Support

The program provides sponsorship for J1 visas, facilitating the admission of international medical graduates seeking a foothold in American medical training environments. This commitment to inclusivity reflects the program's aim to welcome a diverse range of applicants, contributing to a rich educational atmosphere.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Applicants to the Sleep Medicine Fellowship must meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring they possess the necessary qualifications for success. The program evaluates candidates with the following considerations:

• ECFMG certification
• USMLE Step I must be taken within two attempts with a minimum score of 200
• USMLE Step II (CK & CS) must be taken within two attempts with a minimum score of 200
• COMLEX examinations may substitute the Step examinations for osteopathic graduates, requiring a passing score of 400
• Graduation from medical school within the last ten years

Additionally, the fellowship requires three letters of recommendation written within two years prior to application. Applications are accepted exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and interviews are typically conducted in September and October.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The multidisciplinary nature of the fellowship is particularly advantageous, bringing together specialists from various medical backgrounds to provide a holistic training experience. The sleep lab has the capacity for ten studies per night, showcasing its formidability in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. Moreover, the program prides itself on being the only pediatric sleep lab in the state, accommodating a wide range of patient needs 1.

Through this fellowship, graduates are envisioned to enhance health outcomes for both pediatric and adult populations, delivering compassionate and effective care that is tailored to each patient's unique requirements.

For fellows, professional liability coverage is provided automatically, and a covered parking facility is available at no cost. Employee benefits at UMMC are also comprehensive, enhancing the overall experience for fellows in the program. The University of Mississippi Medical Center endeavors to create a nurturing and robust educational environment to prepare future leaders in sleep medicine.