Virginia Commonwealth University Health System Program
Location:
Richmond, VASpecialty:
Interventional pulmonologyACGME Code:
1385114001Overview of the Interventional Pulmonology Program
The Interventional Pulmonology Program at Virginia Commonwealth University Health System is recognized for its comprehensive approach and high volume of procedures, making it a leading center in Virginia and the United States. The program includes fellowship-trained experts who are at the forefront of advanced interventional pulmonary care, providing a unique opportunity for training and professional development in this subspecialty.
1The program focuses on a broad range of airways pathologies, employing advanced endoscopic techniques for both diagnosis and therapy. This allows for a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, utilizing a collaborative framework with various specialists such as thoracic surgery, ENT, and thoracic radiology.
1Curriculum and Training
The dedicated Interventional Pulmonology Fellowship lasts one year, during which fellows gain extensive hands-on experience in a wide array of interventional pulmonary procedures. The fellowship is designed to prepare graduates to manage a full spectrum of pulmonary diseases and related interventions.
1Fellows will participate in procedures including but not limited to therapeutic bronchoscopies, advanced diagnostic bronchoscopies, and management of pleural diseases. The program is one of the few in the United States that provides comprehensive training across all subspecialty aspects, equipping graduates to either start or join an interventional pulmonology practice.
1Clinical Rotations and Procedures
Interventional pulmonology training includes clinical rotations that incorporate diverse procedures such as:
- Therapeutic bronchoscopy (e.g., airway stenting, balloon bronchoplasty)
- Advanced diagnostic bronchoscopy featuring endobronchial ultrasound and robotic bronchoscopy
- Pleural disease interventions including pleuroscopy and PleurX catheter management
- Management of malignant and benign airway obstructions through various endoscopic techniques
This extensive training prepares fellows to become competent and skilled in managing complex cases and improving patients' respiratory symptoms and overall quality of life.
1Research Opportunities
The program is deeply committed to research, with active studies exploring new technologies and techniques in interventional pulmonology. Fellows have opportunities to engage in research focused on bronchial rheoplasty for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other innovative therapies that are currently under investigation.
1Facilities and Training Sites
Training occurs at VCU Medical Center, which serves as one of the primary clinical sites. The center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, allowing fellows to develop proficiency in the latest interventional techniques.
1Visa Sponsorship and Support
The program offers immigration support for fellows requiring visa sponsorship. Specific visa types supported may include J-1 visas for educational purposes, depending on the individual circumstances of the applicants. This ensures accessibility and support for qualified international candidates seeking training in interventional pulmonology.
1Competitiveness
The Interventional Pulmonology Fellowship at VCU Health is regarded as highly competitive. Applicants with diverse backgrounds, including U.S. medical graduates, DO graduates, and International Medical Graduates (IMGs), are encouraged to apply. Selection criteria may include prior training, board eligibility, and procedural experience, along with other performance metrics such as USMLE scores.
1Application Requirements
Special application requirements may apply, such as the year of graduation from medical school and stipulations regarding standardized exams. Generally, candidates should be within a certain number of years from graduation to be considered competitive. Potential fellows should ensure they meet the required benchmarks for performance on the USMLE or COMLEX exams as part of the application process.
1Website
Director
Danai Khemasuwan, MD, MBAProgram Director Appointed Since April 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
70hrsFirst Year Salary:
$60,000First 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
Richmond, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Richmond, VA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Richmond has a mix of safe and more concerning neighborhoods. It's advisable to research the specific area you'll be living in to ensure safety.
- Fun Activities: Richmond offers a thriving arts and culture scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, museums, historical sites, and a variety of dining options.
- Climate: Richmond experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity during the summer months.
- Races and Population: Richmond has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities enriching the city's character.
- Education: Richmond is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for continued learning and cultural activities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Richmond is relatively moderate compared to some other urban areas in the U.S.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Richmond is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away from bigger cities like Washington D.C. and Virginia Beach. These cities offer additional cultural and recreational opportunities.
- Pros: Diverse cultural scene, historical significance, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Varied neighborhood safety, hot and humid summers.
Interview Questions
