University of Washington School of Medicine Program

The Neuromuscular Medicine Fellowship at the University of Washington Department of Neurology offers two positions for ACGME-accredited fellows over a one-year clinical training period. This program engages candidates in the AANEM fellowship application match, allowing for a focused development in neuromuscular medicine.

Fellows become board eligible for both the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine and the ABPN certificate in neuromuscular medicine. The faculty of the UW Neuromuscular program stands at the forefront of research and clinical excellence concerning neuromuscular diseases. Their ongoing research has greatly enhanced understanding and treatment of conditions involving muscle, motor neurons, and peripheral nerves, particularly as numerous immunologic and genetic therapies become available for previously daunting disorders.

Clinical Excellence

Fellows in the Neuromuscular Medicine Fellowship gain extensive clinical experience in various settings. This experience includes diagnostic evaluations using cutting-edge technologies such as electrodiagnostic testing and neuromuscular ultrasound. Training also covers regular muscle and nerve pathology reviews along with didactic sessions, which are tailored to align with fellows' clinical and research interests.

Clinical rotations are scheduled across several respected institutions, including:

• University of Washington Medical Center: Known as the #1 hospital in Washington by U.S. News & World Report, offering comprehensive tertiary care.
• Seattle Children’s Hospital: The primary pediatric center for the WWAMI region, recognized for exemplary pediatric care.
• Seattle VA Medical Center: Provides specialized care and electrodiagnostic testing for veterans.
• Harborview Medical Center: Engages in diverse patient care, including the most vulnerable populations in King County.

These institutions provide a vast range of clinical experiences crucial for the well-rounded training of the fellows.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship program allows fellows to engage in innovative research projects. Topics of current interest include:

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD)
• Hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloid polyneuropathy (hATTR-PN)
• Inclusion body myositis (IBM)
• Inflammatory myopathies
• Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)

Moreover, ongoing studies at affiliated research institutions such as Seattle Children's Hospital are vital in developing FDA-approved therapies for various pediatric neuromuscular disorders.

Application and Eligibility

To apply for the University of Washington’s Neuromuscular Fellowship, candidates must submit applications directly through the AANEM portal. The program typically accepts candidates who have either recently completed or are completing an accredited residency program in neurology. Special application requirements may include limitations on the number of failed USMLE/COMLEX examinations.

Visa Requirements

The Neuromuscular Medicine Fellowship program supports foreign national physicians in need of a J-1 visa through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). H-1B visa sponsorship may be possible under specific circumstances, subject to a case-by-case review by the residency program’s administrative offices.

Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Washington is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The Department of Neurology actively encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, recognizing that diversity enhances patient care and education.

Fellowship Team

The fellowship program boasts a team of dedicated faculty members, actively working alongside fellows to provide guidance and mentorship throughout their training. Current fellows benefit from tailored mentorships to enhance their training experience.

Overall, the Neuromuscular Medicine Fellowship not only emphasizes clinical excellence but also champions research, mentorship, and diversity, ensuring that fellows are well-prepared for careers in neuromuscular medicine.