Residency Advisor

The Vascular Neurology Fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is a one-year, ACGME-accredited program. It emphasizes a comprehensive approach to patient care, didactic learning, and clinical/translational research. There are two tracks available: an adult stroke fellowship with 2-3 positions and a pediatric stroke fellowship with 1 position. Trainees also have the opportunity to extend their training with a 2-year Neuroendovascular/Neurointerventional fellowship. Key patient care sites include the hospital stroke services at William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital, Parkland Hospital, and Children's Health, which is recognized for having one of the largest pediatric stroke programs in the nation.

The fellowship curriculum is structured around a robust didactic program, which includes regularly scheduled journal clubs (both on and off-campus), case presentations, multidisciplinary cerebrovascular disease conferences, and neurosonology conferences. Lectures feature faculty presentations and opportunities for fellows to participate in education across various levels, including residents, medical students, and community outreach. Aside from stroke service, fellows will complete rotations in neurocritical care and interventional neuroradiology. There is an emphasis on research, with multiple opportunities available for fellows to engage in clinical and database research.1

Curriculum and Training

The curriculum encompasses comprehensive didactic sessions that include faculty-led lectures and involvement in various conferences and educational formats. Fellows also engage in residency education and are encouraged to attend junior and national meetings, such as the International Stroke Conference, European Stroke Conference, and World Stroke Conference while presenting their work. Training will also involve participation in neurosonology courses, which could aid in certification if desired.1

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital component of the fellowship. Fellows can engage in clinical and outcomes research surrounding cerebrovascular disease as well as participate in database studies. The institution actively engages in federally funded studies and comparative effectiveness research, and involves itself in significant national efforts to improve stroke care.1 The faculty's collaboration enhances both clinical and scholarly activities within the cerebrovascular section, ensuring that fellows receive extensive exposure to both theoretical and practical elements of vascular neurology.

Application Prerequisites

To apply for the adult stroke fellowship track, candidates must have completed a neurology residency in an ACGME-accredited program, while those applying for the pediatric stroke fellowship track must have completed a pediatric neurology residency also accredited by ACGME. This program is competitive and attracts applicants from both US and international backgrounds. The application process requires submission of a personal statement, CV, ECFMG certificate (if applicable), and three letters of recommendation, one of which must be from the current program director. Additionally, candidates are required to submit their USMLE score report or equivalent documentation. Applications are typically accepted 18 months prior to the anticipated start date via the Electronic Residency Application Service, and the program participates in the Match.1

Visa Support

The Vascular Neurology Fellowship program provides visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants. Primarily, the program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas. The application process can be complex, and timely consultations regarding visa support are essential for international applicants.

Training Sites

The primary patient care sites for the fellowship include:

  • William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital
  • Parkland Hospital, both of which are comprehensive stroke centers
  • Children's Health, which features a prominent pediatric stroke program

Further training is augmented through clinical experiences across various specialty clinics established by the faculty, offering multidisciplinary attention towards complex cerebrovascular disorders and engaging in collaborations with other sectors such as cardiology and community organizations.2

Competitiveness and Fellow Profiles

The fellowship program is highly competitive, welcoming applications from both US graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). It is essential for candidates to present a solid academic background with no more than one failed attempt on their USMLE Steps or equivalent exams. The program has a history of accepting fellows who have diverse training backgrounds and competencies, aimed at producing well-rounded vascular neurologists ready for subspecialty care roles.1

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Location
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Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

3 (1 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2003

Composition

-

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

40hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

12hrs

First Year Salary:

$80,521

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

2.7X

Residents career path:

-

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

-

Location

Dallas, TX

Population
2,613,539
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
34

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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.

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