Curriculum and Clinical Experiences

Goals & Objectives

The primary objective of the training program is to develop high quality clinicians in the field of allergy and clinical immunology. The trainees have primary management responsibilities for patients of all ages and diverse specialty related diagnoses. One staff member is assigned as mentor for the residents on any given day. Cost effective delivery of high quality health care is emphasized.

Research Opportunities

The need for adequate laboratory and research experience is recognized and included in the program. The Allergy service runs a regional allergy clinical and research lab. First year trainees participate in a didactics and hands-on course in diagnostic laboratory immunology.

Clinical Experiences & Rotations

Elective rotations include Head and Neck Surgery clinic, pediatric immune deficiency clinic, pediatric BMT clinic, dermatology, adult HIV clinic, pediatric rheumatology and one day seminars in immunofluorescence and T & B cell lab.

The residents acquire skills in allergen skin testing to aeroallergen, foods, venoms, vaccines and pharmaceuticals; prescribing and managing immunotherapy programs; delayed hypersensitivity skin testing, allergic contact dermatitis patch testing; pulmonary function testing and interpretation; methacholine testing and interpretation; and endoscopic rhino laryngoscopy.

Teaching Programs

Conferences: didactic sessions covering the Core curriculum, local and national conferences/symposia, department GME and CME, case conference, journal review, allergy research conference.

Residents receive weekly half day time for independent study. Yearly In-training exams are given (national).

Teaching opportunities: Informal teaching of primary care house staff for inpatient consults, residents on allergy elective, scheduled lectures to primary care departments.