Children's Hospital Los Angeles Program
Location:
Los Angeles, CASpecialty:
Pediatric critical care medicineACGME Code:
3230531047The Critical Care Medicine Fellowship at Children's Hospital Los Angeles is a renowned three-year training program designed to equip fellows with advanced skills in pediatric critical care. Established in 1997, the fellowship program is located at a facility that hosts a 24-bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and a 24-bed Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit (CTICU), which jointly admit over 2,000 children annually. This rigorous program aligns with the general requirements set forth by the Subspecialty Committee of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine of the Board of Pediatrics and is fully accredited by the Residency Review Committee for Pediatrics as well as the ACGME.1
The program seeks to provide comprehensive training in various critical care modalities. Clinical coverage in both the PICU and CTICU allows fellows to engage in multidisciplinary care practices, enhancing both clinical and educational experiences. Trainees are well-prepared to understand crucial aspects of pediatric critical care, encompassing clinical management, ethical considerations, administrative responsibilities, and research methodologies. In addition, the curriculum includes a unique professionalism and leadership component that facilitates personal development and prepares fellows for future leadership roles in pediatric intensive care.1
Training Environment
The PICU integrates multiple medical disciplines, including pediatric surgery, anesthesiology, and critical care medicine. This collaborative environment not only caters to critical illness but also supports a large and active trauma service, demonstrating the program's commitment to comprehensive pediatric care. The fellows' training in the CTICU involves managing complex congenital heart diseases, enhancing their understanding of advanced medical interventions such as mechanical assist devices and cardiac anesthesia.1
Research Opportunities
The Critical Care Medicine Fellowship emphasizes research as a vital component of the training program. Fellows have the opportunity to engage in both clinical and basic science research, facilitated by The Saban Research Institute and the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine. Training opportunities also extend to research techniques and innovative procedures like flexible fiber optic bronchoscopy, anesthesia, and sedation. There are also elective rotations available, enabling fellows to tailor their educational experience to their professional interests.1
Application Process
Applications to the fellowship program must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The application process requires a comprehensive set of documents, including a current CV, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation—one of which must be from the candidate’s Residency Program Director. Additionally, candidates must provide a complete USMLE or COMLEX transcript and the Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE). The program is currently accepting applications for the 2024-2025 academic year, with a suggested deadline of August 31. The program interviews candidates in September and October.1
Program Details and Requirements
The fellowship details are as follows:
- Duration: Three years of postgraduate training.
- ACGME Accredited: Yes.
- Fellows per Year: 4-5.
- Application Deadline: August 31 for a July start date.
- U.S. Citizenship: Not required.
Eligibility also includes a requirement for candidates to commit to completing the full three-year fellowship.
Benefits
Fellows receive a competitive salary with minimum annual compensation increasing annually from approximately $84,074 in the first year to about $96,949 by the eighth year. Additional benefits encompass health and dental insurance, 14 paid vacation days along with six protected sick days, a yearly educational stipend, monthly meal stipends, and a housing stipend. Furthermore, fellows can participate in a 401(k) plan with matching up to 3%.1
Visa Support
The program offers visa support and is able to sponsor fellows on J-1 or H-1B visas. This accommodation allows for a diverse group of trainees from various backgrounds to participate in the fellowship program.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Critical Care Medicine Fellowship is considered highly competitive, attracting candidates from various medical backgrounds including both DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) and IMG (International Medical Graduate) applicants. This fosters a rich learning environment with diverse perspectives in pediatric critical care.1
Website
Director
Elizabeth A Bragg, MDAssistant Professor of Pediatrics and Anesthesiology Appointed Since October 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
65hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
28hrsFirst Year Salary:
$84,028First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Los Angeles, CA
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Living in Los Angeles, CA
- Crime rate and safety: Los Angeles has a moderate crime rate with certain neighborhoods having higher crime rates than others. It's recommended to research and choose a safe area to live in.
- Fun activities: Los Angeles is known for its diverse entertainment options, such as Hollywood attractions, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Climate: Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It is generally sunny throughout the year.
- Races and population: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population representing various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Los Angeles is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering a wide range of educational opportunities.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Los Angeles is relatively high compared to other cities in the U.S., especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
- Proximity to bigger cities: Nearby bigger cities include San Diego (about 2-3 hours drive) and San Francisco (about 6-7 hours drive), offering additional urban experiences.
- Pros: Exciting cultural opportunities, diverse culinary experiences, access to beautiful beaches, great weather, and potential networking opportunities in the entertainment industry.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, air pollution, and housing affordability challenges.
Interview Questions
