Member May 2026: No Fellowship, No Problem-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This session, “No Fellowship, No Problem,” featured early-career AAPM&R attendings who chose not to pursue fellowship training but have built successful careers in academic medicine. Drs. Zeldin, Berry, and Lay shared their current practice settings, which included academic centers, the VA, inpatient consults, outpatient clinics, neurorehabilitation, spasticity care, and telehealth TBI follow-up. Their schedules varied widely, reflecting the flexibility of general PM&R practice.<br /><br />A major theme was how each physician decided against fellowship. All considered additional training at some point, including pain, neuromuscular, pediatrics, sports, and SCI, but ultimately chose to remain generalists based on patient population interests, career goals, personal life considerations, and a desire to enter practice sooner. They emphasized that strong residency training, graduated autonomy, and making the most of fourth-year independence are key to success without fellowship.<br /><br />The panel discussed job searching and mentorship, noting that most PM&R positions do not require fellowship and that supportive mentors can help with interviews, contracts, and career planning. They stressed being intentional in building a practice, particularly in academic settings, where referral patterns determine the patient mix. Strategies included networking through Epic, grand rounds, committee work, and relationship-building with referring physicians.<br /><br />The main advice for undecided residents was: be flexible, be intentional, and be nice. Fellowship is best for those who want to focus exclusively on a subspecialty, but generalists can thrive by carving out a niche through relationships, reputation, and persistence. They also reminded attendees that the first job is not forever and that career paths can evolve over time.

Keywords

PM&R

generalist

academic medicine

fellowship decision

career planning

mentorship

job search

neurorehabilitation

spasticity care

telehealth