Division of Stroke and Critical Care, Neurology, New York

Description.

The Columbia University Neuro–ICU fellowship is a two year training program that fulfills the UCNS Neuro – ICU training criteria. Training is based in the new 18 – bed CUMC Neuro–ICU, which is equipped with video EEG monitoring in every room, multiple cooling devices, Licox and Microdialysis monitors, as well as advanced neuroimaging (3 – T MRI, and 64 slice CT scanner) located in the ICU. We have a team of 5 neurointensivists, 4 critical care nurse practioners and residents that staff the unit 24 hours per day. Fellows will gain proficiency in the medical management of the critically ill patient. Procedural skills include: traditional and ultrasound-guided central venous line placement, arterial line placement, pulmonary artery catheterization, lumbar puncture/drains, continuous EEG monitoring, brain oxygen monitoring, microdialysis, ventriculostomy management, endotracheal intubation, ventilator management, and fiberoptic bronchoscopy. In addition to time spent in the Neuro–ICU, fellows will complete required rotations in the medical intensive care unit (MICU), surgical intensive care unit (SICU), cardiothoracic intensive care unit (CTICU) and operating rooms (OR).

24 – Month Training Curriculum:

9 months – Neuro–ICU
5 months – MICU, SICU, CTICU, OR
2 months – Neuromonitoring
6 months – Elective
2 months – Vacation

Fellows will participate in the Columbia Critical Care Medicine Curriculum which is an organized collection of lectures, teaching conferences, Journal Club, and Grand Rounds. Upon completion, fellows will be proficient in the management of a wide range of neuro and general critical care patients. Development of independent research projects is strongly encouraged, and will be supported with training in database management and biostatistics. A substantial time commitment is required, including “beeper call” on most evenings and weekend call once a month. Four weeks of vacation time are allotted. Salary is commensurate with PGY level.

Requirements and eligibility.

To apply for the fellowship, the applicant must be eligible for and possess a New York State Medical License on the start date of the fellowship (July 1). Because of this requirement, applicants who have attended a non–U.S. medical school must have completed at least one year of training in internal medicine or surgery in a USGME-approved residency training program in the United States. In addition, residency training in neurology, neurosurgery, anesthesiology or internal medicine is required. A strong interest and track record in clinical research is highly desirable. Information about applying for a New York State Medical License can be obtained by calling (518)-474-3817. In special circumstances, visiting research fellowships of 3 to 12 months duration can be arranged for physicians with their own source of outside funding. Columbia University takes affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity.

Application process.

Fellowship applicants should send (1) a letter of interest, (2) a copy of their CV, and (3) three letters of reference to Dr. Neeraj Badjatia, Division of Critical Care Neurology, Neurological Institute, 710 West 168 Street, Box 29, New York, NY, 10032, approximately 12 — 16 months prior to the desired start date (i.e. late – spring to early summer). Interviews are scheduled from June to October, and applicants will be notified no later than December of each year.

Visiting Electives for Resident Physicians in Neurological Intensive Care

Description.

Residents in neurology training programs at outside institutions may spend a one month elective in the CUMC Neuro–ICU with the approval of their department chairperson or program director. Visiting residents may participate in rounds, observe examinations and procedures in the Neuro–ICU, and attend conferences and seminars, but are not allowed hands–on patient contact. As such, they are designated “visiting scientists” by Columbia University. Potential fellowship applicants are welcome, but not required, to attend as a visiting scientist.

Requirements and eligibility.

Visiting residents must be enrolled in good standing in a USGME–approved residency training program.

Application process.

Applicants should apply to the Division of Critical Care Neurology (212-305-7236), and submit a letter of intent, C.V., and letter of approval of from their department chairperson or program director. The applicant will be sent a visiting scientist request form and insurance information form, which will be submitted to the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at P&S for final approval. The applicant must document that they are covered by health, liability, and accident insurance during the rotation. Applications should be submitted at least 3 to 4 months in advance.

Elective Rotation for Medical Students in Neurological Intensive Care

Description.

Fourth-year medical students at Columbia P&S and at outside U.S. medical schools may spend a one-month elective in the CUMC Neuro-ICU. The elective is designed as a preceptorship under the supervision of the Neuro-ICU attending of the month. The student will become an integral part of a team of resident, fellow, and attending neurologists who specialize in the care of critically ill neurologic patients. Skills will be stressed in clinical examination, invasive and noninvasive neurologic monitoring, and emerging neurologic therapeutics. Opportunity exists to learn technical skills related to critical care, including lumbar puncture, arterial and central venous catheter placement, and ventilator management, under direct supervision of the P&S medical staff. In addition, students may spend time observing neurosurgical or interventional neuroradiologic procedures.

Requirements and eligibility.

Students must be enrolled in good standing at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons or a USGME accredited medical school. Only one medical student may take the elective per month, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Application process.

Enrollment requires written approval of the Course Director (Dr. Neeraj Badjatia, 212-305-7236). Students at outside medical schools should inquire first with the Division of Critical Care Neurology, and then enroll through the P&S Office of Student Affairs. Students at outside schools must submit a letter from their institution indicating that they (1) are in good academic standing, (2) are covered by professional liability insurance, (3) have up-to-date immunizations, and (4) have completed the updated OSHA blood borne pathogens workshop. An application form, health certificate, and $100 fee must also be submitted.