Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Program

The fellowship program in Brain Injury Medicine at Northwell Health offers a comprehensive one-year, ACGME-accredited training path designed for physicians pursuing expertise in the management of brain injury patients. Participants will engage deeply in clinical practice and education, which prioritizes a multidisciplinary approach to care.

Curriculum and Clinical Rotations

The curriculum is structured to provide extensive exposure across various facets of brain injury care. The fellowship includes rotations in:

• Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation: Fellows lead interdisciplinary teams at the Glen Cove Hospital's neurorehabilitation unit, involving direct oversight of patient recovery processes.
• Acute Care/Trauma Consultations: There is active collaboration with trauma and neurosurgery teams to manage patient rehabilitation needs during their hospital stays.
• Outpatient Brain Injury Rehabilitation: This rotation allows fellows to provide long-term care, incorporating spasticity management techniques, such as chemodenervation and intrathecal baclofen.
• Concussion Program: A system-wide initiative that aligns with evidence-based guidelines for concussion management across athletic and non-athletic populations, including community outreach.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation: Fellows develop skills in balance assessment and treatment of vestibular disorders.

These rotations provide a blend of acute care and longer-term rehabilitation, ensuring that fellows experience the entire continuum from injury through rehabilitation.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of training, with structured mentoring available from faculty conducting cutting-edge studies. Each fellow will complete CITI training to participate in ongoing projects aimed at advancing clinical practices in brain injury medicine. The program encourages publication and presentation of research findings, contributing to academic growth.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Northwell Health Brain Injury Medicine fellowship is enhanced by its extensive rehabilitation network which enables fellows to follow patients throughout their recovery journey. This network supports a variety of interdisciplinary interactions, covering acute inpatient settings to outpatient care and community involvement initiatives.3 Additionally, fellows have opportunities to engage in community education events and outreach programs, broadening their impact beyond clinical practice.

Benefits and Compensation

Fellows receive a competitive salary along with a comprehensive benefits package, which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as options for retirement plans. Additional perks include a book allowance, funding for conference attendance, and four weeks of vacation, which promotes both professional development and personal well-being.4 5

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for this fellowship requires submission via ERAS alongside supporting documentation that includes:

• Curriculum vitae
• Personal statement
• Medical school diploma
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• ECFMG certification for international medical graduates

It is essential for candidates to provide letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with their clinical skills and professional conduct, ideally from the last year.6

Visa Support and Competition

The program is inclusive and provides visa sponsorship for qualified applicants, fostering a welcoming environment for both U.S. and international medical graduates (IMGs). The application process is highly competitive, with criteria favoring graduates from diverse backgrounds, including DOs and IMGs.

Resident Lifestyle and Support

Living and training in the vicinity of Long Island and New York City offers a vibrant lifestyle that includes cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities. The health system promotes trainee wellness, facilitating a supportive community through events and wellness initiatives to ensure a balance between work and personal life.7