Frequently Asked Questions

• How do in-patient consults work?

All consults are seen within 24 hours. Fellows first see in-patient consults alone and then discuss them with the appropriate Attending Physicians. Recommendations are discussed with the team caring for the patient and a formal written consult is placed in the chart. In-patient consults are rounded on with the Attending at a later date. Interesting and challenging cases are discussed with all Attendings and Fellows on Friday before our formal clinical allergy or basic immunology lectures.

• What is the workflow like in clinic?

The fellow evaluates new and follow-up patients and develops an assessment and plan. Cases are presented to and discussed with the appropriate Attending and a final plan is presented to the patients.

• What exposure will I get to making and administering allergy extracts?

Fellows are responsible for mixing extracts and administering allergy shots on a regular basis. In the Comprehensive Family Care Center Internal medicine/Pediatric fellows have the opportunity once weekly for three hours to prepare extracts and administer allergy shots under the supervision of an Attending.

• Who is responsible for administering the drug during in-patient drug desensitization?

The Fellow with the supervision of an Attending Physician designs the protocol. Most drug desensitization is administered by RN’s or house staff taking care of the patient. The fellow is not responsible for staying in-house during the desensitization.

• Where do the fellows live?

Fellows live in Manhattan and the Bronx. There are a variety of subway lines/buses that can conveniently take you from Manhattan to the Bronx and multiple beautiful neighborhoods to live in the Bronx that, depending on their location, you can walk, drive or take public transportation from. Fellows are not guaranteed housing through the House Staff office, although there is limited availability for fellows.

• Do I need a car to get from clinic to in-patient evaluations?

No, there are shuttle buses that travel between the various hospitals and clinics.

• What type career guidance is provided for fellows?

Fellows are encouraged to participate in NY Allergy Society evening meetings four times per year. Fellows are also mandated to attend the annual meetings of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology.

During these meetings, there are plenty of opportunities for networking and exposure to job fairs. Attendings are always available to offer advice and guidance about post-fellowship life. Fellows are encouraged to attend the Annual Immunodeficiency and the Clinical Immunology Society meetings.