University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Program
Location:
Dallas, TXSpecialty:
Sleep medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5204840125The Sleep Medicine Fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is a highly esteemed, comprehensive one-year program accredited by the ACGME. This program is designed to equip fellows with essential competencies for practicing Sleep Medicine. The multidisciplinary nature of the fellowship is reflected in its diverse patient population and an engaged staff, including experts from Neurology, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Otolaryngology.
Fellows are stationed at various training sites, including the Clinical Center for Sleep and Breathing Disorders (CCSBD) at the William P. Clements Jr. Hospital, VA North Texas Health Care System, Parkland Sleep Center, and the Children's Health Sleep Disorders Center. These facilities provide exposure to a broad spectrum of sleep disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Curriculum & Training
The curriculum of the fellowship emphasizes comprehensive training in evaluating and treating a variety of sleep disorders, which include:
- Circadian rhythm disorders
- Hypersomnias
- Insomnia
- Narcolepsy
- Neuromuscular diseases requiring ventilatory support
- Parasomnias
- Restless legs syndrome and sleep-related movement disorders
- Sleep-related breathing disorders
- Hypoglossal nerve stimulator device implantation and management
Moreover, fellows gain expertise in various testing modalities, including polysomnograms, positive airway pressure titrations, maintenance of wakefulness testing, and out-of-center testing utilizing actigraphy and home sleep apnea tests. Throughout the program, fellows are encouraged to present their research and findings at numerous regional and national conferences, fostering engagement within the Sleep Medicine community.
Research Opportunities
Active participation in weekly didactics, monthly journal clubs, and case presentations is integral to the fellowship. Research training opportunities are available, focusing on both clinical aspects and translational research. The fellowship encourages involvement in scholarly projects linking concepts from basic science with clinical programs in sleep medicine, contributing substantially to both individual and institutional knowledge in the field.
Stipend and Benefits
The stipend for fellows is commensurate with training experience; for example, following a three-year residency, the salary aligns with a PGY-4 level, while after completing both a three-year residency and a fellowship, the salary reaches the PGY-7 level. In addition, fellows receive lab coats, reference books, and materials at the start of training. Notably, limited funds are available to support fellow travel for conference presentations, highlighting the importance of research dissemination.
The program prioritizes the wellness of its learners, with detailed policies regarding parental leave, sick leave, and PTO available through designated wellness resources.
Application Process
Applications for the fellowship are accepted via ERAS during July and August. Candidates must have completed residency training in ACGME-accredited programs, particularly in Neurology, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, or Psychiatry. Combined residencies are also welcome to apply. Board certification in the primary specialty prior to fellowship completion is necessary for eligibility in the Sleep Medicine board certification exam.
Fellowship interviews occur in September and October, culminating in Match Day in late November. Special emphasis is placed on applicants who have actively participated in sleep-related presentations or research, showcasing a commitment to the field.
Visa Support
The program offers visa support and may sponsor specific types of visas for eligible applicants, ensuring a welcoming environment for international medical graduates seeking advanced training in Sleep Medicine.
Competitiveness
This fellowship is characterized as highly competitive, appealing to medical graduates demonstrating a strong background in sleep-related research or clinical experience. It is approached as friendly towards applicants from both DO and IMG backgrounds.
Website
Director
Safia S Khan, MBBSAssociate Professor, Program Director, Chair Clinical Competence Committee, Chair Program Evaluation Committee Appointed Since July 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$80,521First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Dallas, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Dallas, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Dallas has both safe and less safe neighborhoods. It's essential to research the specific area where you plan to live to ensure safety.
- Fun Activities: Dallas offers a diverse range of activities such as museums, parks, sports events, vibrant nightlife, and delicious dining options.
- Climate: Dallas has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity during summer months.
- Races and Population: Dallas is a diverse city with a significant population of Hispanic, African American, and White residents.
- Education: Dallas is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities to residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Dallas is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the U.S. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Dallas is approximately a 4-hour drive from Houston and a 3-hour drive from Austin. Both cities offer unique cultural experiences and amenities.
- Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, affordable cost of living.
- Cons: Traffic congestion, humid summers, safety concerns in some neighborhoods.
Interview Questions
