Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine Program

The Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine offers a Vascular Neurology Fellowship that is a one-year ACGME-accredited program focused on training fellows in the management of patients with cerebrovascular disease. The fellowship is designed to equip trainees with the academic, clinical, and practical skills necessary to handle neurovascular disorders efficiently.

Program Overview

The fellowship is conducted at the Premier Health Clinical Neuroscience Institute (CNSI), located at Miami Valley Hospital, a 973-bed facility known as a Level 1 Trauma Center and a Comprehensive Stroke Center. This hospital is also the main teaching site for the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine and serves multiple other ACGME-approved residency programs. Miami Valley Hospital has been recognized as a Joint Commission-certified Comprehensive Stroke Center and has received multiple accolades from the American Heart Association for its stroke care capabilities

The Vascular Neurology fellows provide care primarily within the Neurology Unit and Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Miami Valley Hospital. The NICU is a state-of-the-art facility with a 2-to-1 nurse-to-patient ratio and is staffed by specialized medical professionals, including attending vascular neurologists, residents, and advance practice nurses 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship consists of dedicated rotations, structured to provide a rich learning experience. Fellows will spend six blocks in the Stroke Service, two blocks in the Neuroscience ICU, and two blocks in the NeuroInterventional Surgery rotation. Additional time will be devoted to outpatient services and neuroimaging. Furthermore, the fellow participates in a weekly continuity clinic and will be involved in the Tele-Stroke network 1.

Educational Components

The educational curriculum is comprehensive and includes various conferences that enhance learning and collaborative skills. The weekly vascular neurology case conference facilitates interdisciplinary discussions, and Neurology Grand Rounds occur biweekly, covering a variety of relevant topics. Additional conference offerings include carotid pathology discussions and stroke journal clubs 1.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to participate in clinical research, and there is dedicated time and support for conducting research projects. Engagement in research contributes to the growing body of literature in vascular neurology and enhances the fellow's practical experience 1.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Vascular Neurology Fellowship program at Wright State is competitive, attracting applicants from various backgrounds, including International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and those with Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degrees. There are specific application requirements, including graduation from medical school not more than five years prior to application, a maximum of one failed USMLE Step exam, and the completion of the ECFMG certification for IMGs 1.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified individuals, ensuring that international applicants can pursue training without concerns regarding immigration status. The fellowship program provides support for J-1 or H-1B visa applications for eligible candidates 1.

Training Sites and Unique Aspects

In addition to the Miami Valley Hospital, fellows also benefit from exposure to a variety of practice settings, including the Premier Health clinical network. The diverse patient population and access to multidisciplinary teams enable fellows to develop a holistic approach to patient care. The involvement of interventional services enhances the learning experience with comprehensive exposure to acute stroke intervention and stroke management 1.

Conclusion

This fellowship program prides itself on excellence, innovation, and fostering an inclusive environment for learning. Through rigorous training, diverse clinical experiences, and unparalleled mentorship, the Vascular Neurology Fellowship at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine prepares fellows for successful careers in neurology.