The Headache Medicine Fellowship is a one-year UCNS-accredited fellowship program with an optional second year focusing on research. Our fellowship offers a comprehensive training experience designed to cultivate expertise in the diagnosis and management of complex headache disorders.
Program Highlights:
Clinical Excellence:
Fellows will train at both UAB Medical Center and the Birmingham Veterans Administration Hospital which has a nationally recognized Headache Center of Excellence. Additionally, fellows will:
• Be exposed to a wide variety of headache disorders and have the privilege to care for a diverse patient population.
• Gain hands-on experience in managing a multitude of headache disorders under the mentorship of faculty boarded in Headache Medicine.
• Receive extensive training in headache procedures, such as botulinum toxin injections, trigger point injections, and sphenopalatine ganglion blocks.
• Receive training in headache infusion medicine and cutting-edge neuromodulation therapies.
Interdisciplinary Approach:
Fellows have the opportunity to collaborate closely with experts across Neurology, Pain Management, Psychology, Ophthalmology, Integrative Pain Rehabilitation, Sleep Medicine, TBI, Women’s Health and other specialties to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs. Fellows also have dedicated elective rotations to spend additional time in specialty clinics of interest.
Research Opportunities:
Fellows are encouraged to engage in innovative research initiatives supported by state-of-the-art facilities and resources at UAB and the Birmingham VA, contributing to advancements in headache medicine. The Birmingham VA Headache Center of Excellence is currently involved in numerous multisite research collaborations.
Education and Training:
Fellows access a structured curriculum encompassing didactic sessions, case conferences, journal clubs, conferences, and workshops to deepen clinical knowledge and critical thinking skills. Fellows will also participate in teaching medical students and residents. Fellows attend a minimum of one national headache conference supported by the program.
Leadership Development:
Fellows have the ability to foster leadership skills through opportunities to teach medical students, residents, and allied health professionals, shaping the future of headache medicine. Fellows will also have multiple opportunities to give national CME lectures through the Headache Centers of Excellence Education Program.
Community and Advocacy:
Fellows have opportunities to participate in community outreach initiatives and advocacy efforts to raise awareness about headache disorders and improve patient outcomes on a broader scale.
Application Requirements:
- Completion of an accredited Neurology or Psychiatry residency program
- Eligibility for medical licensure in Alabama
- Commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and research in headache medicine
Contact Info
For more information, please contact:
Emily Schlitz Fortenberry, M.D.
Fellowship Director