The Disaster Medicine Fellowship provides in-depth training to prepare physicians for leadership in disaster response agencies, hospital or public health emergency management organizations, and policy and preparedness organizations.

Disaster Medicine Fellowship

The Disaster Medicine Fellowship at Indiana University School of Medicine provides in-depth training in the multiple facets of disaster medicine. The fellowship prepares physicians for leadership positions in disaster response agencies, hospital or public health emergency management organizations, and policy and preparedness organizations.

This one-year fellowship features a multidisciplinary approach to disaster preparedness, response and recovery that enables graduates to focus on systemwide solutions for disaster preparedness and response. The fellowship provides broad exposure to multiple areas of disaster medicine and offers educational experiences at the local, regional, national and international levels.

IU School of Medicine also has a two-year option that includes completion of a master’s degree in public health through the Indiana University Indianapolis Fairbanks School of Public Health.

How to Apply

Prospective fellows must submit their applications to Dr. Roxanna Lefort and Amanda Horton. Applications must include a letter of intent/personal statement, two letters of recommendation and curriculum vitae.

Facilities

Fellows are fully integrated within the Department of Emergency Medicine Division of Out-of-Hospital Care (EMS), as well as all agencies that our EMS division oversees.

Curriculum

Didactics are held weekly from 9 am-noon. There is a blend of textbook review, journal club and presentations from subject matter experts.

Explore the fellowship curriculum

District 5 Health Care Coalition

The fellow assists in the role of clinical advisor for this collaborative network of health care organizations and its respective public and private sector response partners within Indiana District 5. The role includes collaborating in district-wide drills, reviewing surge and other emergency preparedness plans, attending monthly coalition meetings, and providing medical advice to the coalition leaders during actual events.

Drs. Angi Fiege, Julia Vaizer and Melissa McCarthy at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Indianapolis Fire/EMS

Depending on the disaster medicine fellow’s previous exposure and preference, they can choose the degree of involvement and experience within a high-volume, progressive EMS system. The fellow can expect to be involved in monitoring hazmat and mass casualty incidents and planning and medical management during the Indianapolis 500 and OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini Marathon.

Dr. Zach Wagner and Dr. Stephen Hartsock poolside at Lucas Oil Stadium during a practice for the Olympic Trials in swimming.

Off-site and Online Education

Many opportunities exist for quality training at off-site locations, whether through formal courses or experiential learning. During a typical year, the disaster medicine fellow attends four or five off-site activities, which are determined on a case-by-case basis with the fellow and the fellowship directors depending on availability and the fellow’s academic interests.