University of Virginia Medical Center Program
Location:
Charlottesville, VASpecialty:
EpilepsyACGME Code:
1845118002The University of Virginia (UVA) offers a comprehensive fellowship program in Epilepsy under its renowned F.E. Dreifuss Comprehensive Epilepsy Program. This program is situated within the Department of Neurology, which boasts a rich history, advanced clinical facilities, and a commitment to research focused on epilepsy and related disorders.
Program Overview
The UVA fellowship in Epilepsy is designed to train future leaders in the diagnosis and management of epilepsy. The program primarily consists of two main components: Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsy fellowship. The Clinical Neurophysiology fellowship is ACGME-accredited and focuses on developing skills in EEG, video EEG monitoring, and the evaluation of patients with epilepsy. Completion of this fellowship prepares fellows for board certification in Clinical Neurophysiology.
Training Structure
During the two-year fellowship, fellows experience structured rotations encompassing various clinical settings. The first year is largely oriented towards gaining proficiency in EEG analysis and electrophysiological monitoring, whereas the second year allows for more specialized exposure to epilepsy surgery, device management, and advanced epilepsy therapies.
Clinical Rotations
The training includes diverse clinical experiences across:
- EEG Laboratory: Involvement in performing and interpreting approximately 3,000 routine EEGs and 150 evoked potential studies each year.
- Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU): The state-of-the-art EMUs at UVA accommodate up to 14 patients (8 adult, 6 pediatric) per year for intensive monitoring and evaluation, providing fellows the opportunity to assess and manage complex epilepsy cases.
- Continuity Clinics: Fellows maintain patient continuity in epilepsy clinics, ensuring familiarization with the longitudinal treatment strategies required for maximizing patient care.
- Field Clinics: Unique outreach clinics across rural Appalachian regions help fellows gain invaluable experiences in managing epilepsy within diverse populations.
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship. Fellows participate in ongoing clinical research projects including trials for new anti-epileptic drugs, device implementations, and evaluation of novel surgical approaches. Each fellow is encouraged to engage in an individually-mentored hypothesis-driven research project.
Faculty and Mentorship
The program is led by a multidisciplinary team of experts including neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuropsychologists, and clinical neurophysiologists. This collaborative environment ensures fellows receive mentorship tailored to their individual career goals, whether in academia or clinical practice.
Application Process and Requirements
To apply for the fellowship, candidates must meet specific criteria. A completed residency in Neurology is typically required, alongside eligibility for board certification in Neurology. The program has historically been competitive, emphasizing the selection of candidates with a strong foundation in neurology and a demonstrated commitment to epilepsy care. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are welcomed, fostering an inclusive and diverse training environment.
The program does provide visa support for qualified candidates, sponsoring visa types such as J-1 and H-1B.
Unique Aspects of the Program
UVA distinguishes its fellowship through a robust combination of clinical training and exposure to innovative treatment modalities including epilepsy surgery, Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), and novel drug therapies. The fellowship incorporates dedicated didactic sessions, case presentations, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, fellows benefit from regular participation in conferences such as Epilepsy Surgery and Neuropathology Conferences, enhancing their educational experience.
Fellows participating in the Epilepsy program will find themselves training amidst a supportive academic community, active in providing state-of-the-art care and contributing to cutting-edge research, all in the picturesque setting of Charlottesville.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$66,215First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Charlottesville, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville, VA, is a charming city located in central Virginia. Here's a breakdown of various aspects of living in Charlottesville:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Charlottesville generally has a moderate crime rate with a focus on property crimes. It is always recommended to be cautious in any city.
- Fun Activities: Charlottesville is known for its historical sites, vineyards, and outdoor activities like hiking in Shenandoah National Park. There are also cultural events, music festivals, and a thriving food scene.
- Climate: Charlottesville experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and mild winters. Fall is particularly beautiful with the changing colors of the leaves.
- Races and Population: Charlottesville has a diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities contributing to its vibrant community.
- Education: Charlottesville is home to the University of Virginia, which brings a strong academic and intellectual atmosphere to the city.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Charlottesville is slightly above the national average, mainly due to housing costs. However, compared to big cities, it is still relatively affordable.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Washington, D.C., is around 2 to 3 hours away by car, and Richmond, VA, is about an hour and a half away. Both cities offer more extensive cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities.
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