Interventional Pulmonologist Education and Training

Purpose of Review This article summarizes the current interventional pulmonology training paradigm in the USA. Cognitive and procedural training, assessments, and standards are reviewed. Recent Findings Cognitive training includes a didactic curriculum that examines common pathologies and conditions pertinent to the airways, lung parenchyma, and pleural space. Cognitive assessments are performed via a fellowship in-service examination, as well as an accreditation exam administered by the American Association for Bronchology and Interventional Pulmonology (AABIP). Procedural training occurs through synthetic, cadaveric, and animal models, and technology-enhanced simulation. An apprenticeship model allows for hands-on skill acquisition with live patients under the mentorship of experienced faculty. Summary Emphasizing both cognitive and procedural competence, fellows undergo training in minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic interventions of the airways, lung parenchyma, and pleural space during an intensive 1-year fellowship. At completion of the fellowship, fellows can sit for the interventional pulmonology board certification examination sponsored by the AABIP.