Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

All about WHS Fellowship

FELLOWSHIP

What are WHS Fellowships?

WHS Fellowships are postnominal qualifications offered to healthcare professionals who have demonstrated specific knowledge and skills related to headache and orofacial pain medicine.

Who are eligible to apply for the WHS Fellowships?

There is an entry level postgraduate certification that is open to all medical, nursing and allied health professionals with a valid license to practice in their respective fields. There are Fellowships which are open to those with postgraduate qualifications as well.

What are the main goals of the WHS Fellowships?

There is a huge shortage in trained professionals who can effectively manage complex headaches and facial pains. WHS aims to fill this gap by intensive training followed by assessment exams.

What are the types of Certifications / Fellowships available?

We Offer

  • Hybrid Fellowship in Headache Medicine (FIHM) (Rolling entry)
  • Fellowship in Interventional Headache Neurology (FIHN) (Limited intake)
  • Fellowship in Neuro Ophthalmology of Headaches and Facial Pains (FNOH) (Rolling entry)
  • Mini Fellowship in Neuroradiology of Headaches and Facial Pains (FNRH) (On demand)
  • Fellowship in Research Statistics and Epidemiology F.Res (Headaches) (On demand)
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Headaches and Facial Pains (PG Cert. Headache Medicine) (Rolling entry)

 

  • Fellowship of the World Headache Society (FWHS) (Elected)
  • Honorary Fellowship of the World Headache Society (HFWHS) (Conferred)

How long are the WHS Fellowship programs?

There are 4 categories of Fellowships, which run over 6 months to 1 year. One of them, the Fellowship of the World Headache Society is not conducted as a course, but is an honor awarded to those professionals who have demonstrated excellence in headache medicine through WHS and other competitive programs.

Where is the WHS Fellowship program conducted?

Depending on the type of Fellowship, programs are conducted as virtual, onsite and hybrid modes. There are on-demand Fellowships as well.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

What does the WHS Fellowship curriculum include?

The entry level Postgraduate Certification in Headaches and Facial Pains cover the most basic essentials required to practice headache and facial pain medicine. This covers anatomy, pathophysiology, classification, clinical features and management of all disorders that present as headaches and orofacial pains. There are also case based discussions and virtual grand rounds as part of the course.

Fellowship in Neuro Ophthalmology of Headaches and Facial Pains is an interface of neurology and ophthalmology, also covering sinus diseases.

Fellowship in Interventional Headache Neurology covers clinical neurology of headaches and facial pains, with demonstration on volunteers, hands-on training on cadaver, mannequins using surface landmarks, ultrasound and fluoroscopy. 

Does the WHS Fellowship offer hands-on training in headache management?

The 2-year Hybrid Fellowship in Headache Medicine, 1 month Fellowship in Interventional Headache Neurology have hands-on training embedded within the program. Fellowship in Neuro Ophthalmology of Headaches and Facial Pains has an optional hands-on training component for interested candidates.

Will Fellows receive mentorship from experts in the field?

All WHS Faculty are subject experts. Some of them offer continued mentorship even after the end of the program.

Are there opportunities for research during the Fellowship?

The on-demand WHS Fellowship in Research Statistics and Epidemiology includes didactic lectures and workshops, research projects, mentorship and guidance by the expertise of distinguished faculty members and a hands-on, experiential learning approach.

Fellowship is awarded to those who complete the course, pass the exam and publish their paper on headaches/orofacial pains in a journal with Impact Factor >2.

The 2-year Hybrid Fellowship in Headache Medicine has a thesis submission and defense as part of the program.

Is the program focused on specific headache disorders or general training?

Depending on the type of Fellowship, it may be general or specific aspects of headache disorders.

SELECTION PROCESS

How competitive is the WHS Fellowship program?

It is highly competitive but there is an 80-percentage pass rate in previous exams.

What is the selection process for the WHS Fellowship?

Eligible candidates apply online by filling online forms and submitting documents such as their medical degree certificate and government ID proof. Following this the credentialing and admissions team will contact them regarding their acceptance and further steps.

How are candidates evaluated during the application process?

The medical qualifications must be from a recognized university with registration in a licensing authority from any country recognized by the United Nations. For the 2 year Hybrid Fellowship in Headache Medicine, desirable entry specializations include Internal Medicine, Pain Medicine, Orofacial pain, Neurology, Neurosurgery, ENT, Ophthalmology, Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Family Medicine

When will applicants be notified about their acceptance?

Generally, within 5-7 working days.

Can unsuccessful candidates reapply in the future?

Yes, after fulfilment of eligibility criteria and correction of previous deficiency if any.

ELIGIBILITY & APPLICATION

What qualifications are required to apply for the WHS Fellowship?

Basic medical qualification is a prerequisite for all Fellowships. Some Fellowships require postgraduation in neurology, ophthalmology and/or other specialties.

Can international candidates apply for the WHS Fellowship?

Anyone who fulfils the eligibility criteria are eligible to apply, irrespective of their country of origin.

Are there any prerequisites for clinical or research experience?

No. However some Fellowships require postgraduate qualifications which would include clinical and research experience as part of their training.

How do I apply for the WHS Fellowship?

Applications are accepted throughout the year. After scrutiny of the submitted documents, the credentialing and admissions team will contact the applicant.

Is there an application fee for the WHS Fellowship?

No.

Is there an course fee for the WHS Fellowship Programs?

Yes. Every program has different course fees.

FUNDING & BENEFITS

Is the WHS Fellowship funded?

No, except the Fellowship in Interventional Headache Neurology which has 50 percent funding through Chairman’s scholarship for eligible neurology residents who are in their final year of training. Fellows of the World Headache Society (FWHS) receive substantial discounts on all Fellowship programs.

Are Fellows provided a stipend during the program?

No. However, Fellowship trainees who wish to work full time in a WHS approved center will be provided with a stipend.

Are travel or accommodation expenses covered?

No.

What are the career benefits of completing the WHS Fellowship?

Previous Fellows have received promotions in their workplace, got new jobs in the field of headache and facial pains, and have started headache clinics and headache centers in their home countries.

Will Fellows receive certification upon completion?

Yes. They will receive certification and the right to use the postnominal associated with the particular Fellowship, such as FIHM, FIHN, FNOH.

POST-FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

What opportunities are available for Fellows after completing the program?

Fellows are welcome to apply for jobs in WHS approved Headache Centers of Excellence. The WHS will facilitate, and WHS mentors recommend on behalf of the candidate should they choose to apply to one of these centers. In addition to this, there are alumni networks to which they will be added.

Does WHS provide networking opportunities for alumni?

Yes, there are WhatApp groups and email groups for virtual networking. In additional, Zoom meetings where face to face sessions are also held periodically where Fellow trainees interact with one another. There are WHS Conferences, Symposia and Workshops for face to face in person meetings and networking.

Will Fellows have access to continued education through WHS?

Fellows of the World Headache Society (FWHS) have lifetime access to ongoing and future courses of the WHS.

Can Fellows collaborate with WHS on future projects or research?

Yes. There are opportunities to serve of the WHS Board, on committees, contribute to the multicentric research collaborations in systematic reviews, meta-analyses, participate in ongoing disease registries such as the IIH Consortium.

How can Fellows contribute to the WHS community after the program?

The primary mission of WHS is to reduce the burden of headaches and facial pains. Fellows regularly participate in WHS endorsed outreach programs where they volunteer to attend to patients suffering from headaches and facial pains.

More about World Headache Society

ABOUT WHS

What is the World Headache Society (WHS)?

The “World Headache Society” is a charitable trust with a primary mission to reduce the burden of headaches and facial pains.

Our commitment lies in promoting high quality research and provision of specialized care accessible to all individuals, with special emphasis on developing countries where access to such care is often limited 

What is the mission of WHS?

To incorporate cultural intelligence and tacit knowledge sharing to educate and credential clinicians in headache medicine and to empower patients through advocacy.

To bridge gaps and empower healthcare professionals and patients within those countries which are historically underrepresented and underprivileged.

Who can become a life member of WHS?

Medical doctors with WHO recognized qualifications in Modern Medicine

Traditional and Complementary Medicine practitioners with government approved license to practice
Dentists
Psychologists
Physiotherapists
Nurses
Allied Health Practitioners

How can I become a life member of WHS?

Know more about Life Membership details here 

Where is the WHS headquartered?

Bangalore, India

EVENTS AND EDUCATION

What events does WHS organize?

  • Congress
  • Symposia (Local / Global)
  • Workshops
  • Conferences
  • Webinars
  • Open Houses
  • Journal Clubs
  • Fellowship Award Ceremonies
  • Patient Outreach Programs

How can I participate in WHS conferences or workshops?

Check Upcoming events and register for the event.

Are WHS events open to non-members?

Yes, non-members are welcome to attend by registering for the event.

Does WHS offer any online courses or webinars?

Yes, there are online courses and webinars. Please check our courses page, events page and journal club.

How can I find out about upcoming events?

Check our Events page.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

What is the Interventional Headache Fellowship for Neurologists?

It is a one-month intensive hybrid program, with hands-on training, written, clinical and practical exams to test competence in interventional procedures of head, neck, oral cavity and face for headaches and orofacial pains.

How can I apply for the Interventional Headache Fellowship?

Click to check the Course Details

Does WHS offer resources for professional development?

Yes, we offer resource support in multiple forms. Please check out the Journal Club and WHS publications.

Are there mentoring opportunities available through WHS?

Yes. Please write to worldheadachesociety@gmail.com

How can WHS help me stay updated on headache treatment advancements?

Members and fellow have access to attend, treatment update webinars and join the courses.

MEMBERSHIP

What are the benefits of becoming a WHS Life Member?

Being WHS Life Member offers bundle of elite privileges as below.
  • Free Access to Exclusive Webinars
  • Free Peer Support & Mentorship
  • Discounts to WHS In-person Events
  • Access to exclusive educational material
  • Full Voting Rights
  • Eligibility to Apply for Fellowship of WHS

How much does WHS Life Membership cost?

One-time Life Membership fees of $1099

Can students or trainees become WHS Life members?

No

How do I renew my WHS membership?

There is no need of renewal. It is a lifetime membership

RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS

Does WHS fund research on headaches and migraines?

Yes, Budgeted funds are available. It is highly competitive with a long waitlist. Write to info@worldheadachesociety.org for more details 

How can I submit my research to WHS Publication?

What are the latest research updates on headache disorders?

Check the WHS-MCH1 and other publications of WHS

Does WHS collaborate with other organizations on research?

Yes

Where can I access WHS publications?

Check our Publications

CONTACT AND SUPPORT

How do I contact WHS for more information?

How can I provide feedback about WHS initiatives or events?

Feedback forms are given to candidates who attend the events. In addition, you may write to info@worldheadachesociety.org

Can I volunteer to support WHS activities?

Yes. You are welcome to join as Mentor, Member, Sponsor or anyway possible. Email us anytime. 

How do I donate to support WHS research and initiatives?

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