University of Pennsylvania Health System Program
Location:
Philadelphia, PASpecialty:
Vascular neurologyACGME Code:
1884121056The Vascular Neurology Fellowship Program at the University of Pennsylvania provides a comprehensive, ACGME-accredited experience for aspiring vascular neurologists. With over 20 years of history, this program is dedicated to training exemplary clinicians and academic leaders in the field.
Program Structure
The fellowship accepts three clinical fellows annually, with training that may last either one or two years based on individual career goals. The Division of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases prides itself on several notable accomplishments, including being the first JCAHO certified primary stroke center in Philadelphia and a comprehensive stroke center in the region. Additionally, the National Institutes of Health has funded multiple research initiatives aimed at advancing stroke treatment and recovery.
Curriculum Overview
The fellowship offers a balanced curriculum of inpatient and outpatient clinical training, reinforced by research opportunities. Each fellow typically spends approximately 2.75 months on the inpatient Stroke Service, playing significant roles in morning rounds and inpatient consults. During this rotation, fellows gain hands-on experience while being supervised by leading vascular neurology faculty.
When not on service, fellows engage with outpatients two afternoons weekly, maximizing their clinical exposure. A significant component of this training involves telestroke consultations, providing valuable insight into acute stroke management. Furthermore, fellows have elective periods to tailor their training, with options ranging from neuro-intensive care and interventional neuroradiology to research and neurosurgery.
Additional didactic opportunities include weekly case conferences, journal clubs, and personalized mentoring, all designed to enhance clinical competence and research acumen. Those choosing a second year will delve deeper into academic research while honing clinical skills.
Mentorship and Alumni Success
Alumni of the fellowship have achieved remarkable success in both clinical and academic spheres, and the program emphasizes leadership development. Testimonials from former fellows highlight the extensive clinical experiences available through diverse patient exposure, clinical research initiatives, and strong faculty support.
Application Process
The application process seeks candidates who have excelled in clinical settings and demonstrated a commitment to research within their residency training. Applicants are required to submit a curriculum vitae, three letters of reference, and a personal statement through the appropriate application system.
The program adheres to competitive selection criteria, valuing diverse clinical interests and experiences, particularly those related to healthcare disparities and quality improvement. Specific requirements regarding eligibility often include being board-eligible in neurology and possessing differential research interests.
Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness
The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship for foreign medical graduates seeking to advance their training. This aspect of the fellowship makes it accessible to a broad range of applicants, including those from international backgrounds. The program is known to be competitive; thus candidates should demonstrate excellence in both their clinical and academic endeavors.
Training Sites
Upcoming fellows will undergo training primarily at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, a leading medical center recognized nationally and internationally for its clinical innovations. Additional training sites include the Penn Presbyterian Medical Center and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, which further enriches the experience through multidisciplinary collaborations and comprehensive care exposure.
Through this multifaceted approach to vascular neurology, the University of Pennsylvania Fellowship Program aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders in stroke care and research, providing a well-rounded foundation on which to build successful careers.
Website
Director
Donna K George, MDAssociate Professor of Neurology, Program Director Vascular Neurology Fellowship Program, Director of the Comprehensive Stroke Center Appointed Since July 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$83,041First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.
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