Specialty:
Sleep medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5205114001The Sleep Medicine Fellowship at the University of Virginia Medical Center is designed to provide specialized training in sleep medicine, combining clinical and educational experiences for fellows over a 12-month period. This program has recently received ACGME accreditation, with its inaugural cohort scheduled to begin in July 2025. The fellowship intention is to cultivate comprehensive experts in the field of sleep medicine who are well-prepared for board certification.
Faculty involvement is extensive, with specialists from various departments, which enhances the learning environment and enables a multidisciplinary approach to sleep medicine. The core values of the program include promoting a supportive learning atmosphere, excellence in patient care, and professional development opportunities.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is structured to include a variety of rotations, hands-on clinical experiences, and didactic sessions. The program initiates with a Summer Sleep Boot Camp, aimed at preparing fellows for the challenges ahead by providing foundational knowledge of sleep disorders.
Fellows engage in a continuity clinic throughout their training, providing them with regular, longitudinal exposure to clinical practice, which enhances their skills as primary sleep physicians under faculty supervision.
Clinical Rotations
The fellowship consists of several core rotations which offer diverse experiences:
- Comprehensive Sleep Outpatient Program (CSOP): Fellows spend a significant portion of their week in multidisciplinary sleep clinics, allowing them to interact with various faculty from pulmonary, neurology, and pediatric sleep specialties.
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine: This rotation emphasizes gaining specialized knowledge in pediatric sleep disorders, offering unique insights into child-focused sleep medicine practice.
- Inpatient Sleep Medicine: Fellows work closely with faculty to assess hospitalized patients for sleep-disordered breathing and other related disorders, integrating clinical and procedural knowledge.
- Neuropsych Sleep Medicine: This rotation provides valuable exposure to the interplay between sleep disorders and neurology/behavioural medicine conditions.
- Elective Rotations: Each fellow is allotted time for elective blocks that can be customized to align with their academic and clinical interests.
Research Opportunities
In addition to clinical training, the program emphasizes the importance of research in sleep medicine. Academic activities are woven into the curriculum, including participation in research conferences and opportunities for fellows to engage in scholarly activities, thereby enhancing their understanding of current findings and developments in sleep science.
Teaching and Didactic Programs
The fellowship includes an extensive didactic component, encompassing multidisciplinary journal clubs, clinical case conferences, and workshops focused on quality improvement and research methodologies. These programs are designed to reinforce clinical skills while offering insight into the latest developments in sleep medicine.
Fellow Wellness and Support
The program prioritizes fellow wellness and supports this through various resources. These include access to well-being programs and assistance for both fellows and faculty, recognizing that a sustainable work-life balance is essential for effective training and patient care.
Application Process
Applications to the fellowship are accepted via the ERAS system. Applicants must have completed an accredited residency program in one of the following specialties: anesthesiology, child neurology, family medicine, internal medicine, neurology, otolaryngology, pediatrics, or psychiatry. The application requires several documents, including a personal statement, medical school transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Interviews are conducted online, reflecting the program's commitment to accessibility.
Competitive applicants typically demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to pursuing sleep medicine. There are no stringent limits regarding failed exams as long as the overall application is robust.
Visa Support
The program sponsors J1 visas for international medical graduates, thereby being accessible to international applicants who meet the necessary qualifications.
Competitiveness
As a newly established program intending to build on a strong foundation of interdisciplinary collaboration, the fellowship aims to be welcoming to diverse candidates, including domestic and international applicants. It is designed to foster an inclusive environment conducive to learning and professional growth.
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Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
50 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
24 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$69,440First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Admission
Location
Charlottesville, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Charlottesville, VA - Overview
Charlottesville, Virginia, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic surroundings. Below is a detailed overview of living in this charming city.
- Crime Rate and Safety
Charlottesville has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. Violent crime is generally low, though property crime can fluctuate. The city focuses on community policing, contributing to a feeling of safety for residents. - Fun Activities
The city offers a variety of activities such as visiting local wineries, enjoying outdoor recreation in parks like the Appalachian Trail, exploring historical sites including Monticello, and attending cultural events and festivals throughout the year. - Climate
Charlottesville has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are generally cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. - Race and Population
The population of Charlottesville is approximately 48,000 people, reflecting a racially and ethnically diverse community. The city is home to a significant student population due to the presence of the University of Virginia, which influences its cultural landscape. - Education
Charlottesville has a strong education system, with several public schools rated highly. The presence of the University of Virginia also offers numerous educational and cultural opportunities for residents. - Cost of Living
The cost of living in Charlottesville is higher than the national average but may be lower than larger metropolitan areas. Housing costs can be significant, but there are varying options available depending on location and type. - Nearby Larger Cities
The nearest larger city is Richmond, VA, which is about a 1.5-hour drive (approximately 70 miles) away. Richmond offers additional cultural sites, dining options, and employment opportunities. Washington, D.C. is about 2 hours away (approximately 120 miles) and provides extensive urban amenities, government institutions, and broader cultural experiences. - Pros
- Rich history and cultural heritage
- Access to outdoor activities and natural beauty
- Low crime rate and strong community focus
- Diverse population and educational opportunities
- Cons
- Cost of living may be higher than other rural or less central locations
- Some amenities may be limited compared to larger cities
- Traffic congestion can occur during peak times, especially due to the university presence
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