Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Program
Specialty:
EpilepsyACGME Code:
1844118004The Pediatric Epilepsy Program at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is a renowned institution specializing in the treatment of epilepsy and related conditions in children. Recognized as a Level 4 Epilepsy Center by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers, the program is equipped with the highest level of expertise and facilities necessary for comprehensive medical and surgical care.
The program's multidisciplinary team comprises expert neurologists, neurosurgeons, nurse practitioners, nurses, neuropsychologists, neuropathologists, neuroradiologists, genetic counselors, and social workers, all dedicated to diagnosing and treating infants, children, and adolescents with epilepsy. The team is not only focused on innovative treatment options but also on research to develop safer and more effective therapies for epilepsy, underscoring the program's commitment to cutting-edge medicine.
Program Features
One of the highlights of the Pediatric Epilepsy Program is its dedicated 24-bed inpatient Neuroscience Unit. This state-of-the-art facility is designed specifically for pediatric patients, accommodating their unique medical and surgical requirements. Families are actively involved in daily rounds, promoting collaboration in patient care.
The program offers advanced inpatient and outpatient video electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring, which is crucial for accurate epilepsy diagnosis. A skilled team of accredited EEG technologists oversee 24/7 monitoring to ensure high-quality care.
For patients requiring surgical intervention, the program provides access to the latest minimally invasive techniques. The surgical team develops tailored plans to minimize discomfort and optimize recovery outcomes. The majority of surgical candidates are evaluated thoroughly, providing every child with personalized treatment pathways.
Moreover, the program houses the world's largest ketogenic diet initiative, specializing in dietary treatments for epilepsy. This program has successfully started over 900 patients on dietary therapies and actively treats approximately 250 children. The Keto Kitchen facility allows families to learn how to prepare appropriate meals in support of their child's dietary needs.
Research and Innovation
Research is integral to the Pediatric Epilepsy Program, with ongoing studies in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other institutions. The program's Epilepsy Neurogenetics Initiative (ENGIN) provides genetic testing for children with refractory epilepsy, providing insights that help guide effective treatment strategies.
With an extensive history of research contributions, the program has achieved significant breakthroughs in understanding and treating epilepsy, aiming for continuous improvement in patient outcomes and quality of life.
Training and Education
The Pediatric Epilepsy Program also plays a vital role in educating both healthcare professionals and families. Through initiatives such as the Virtual Epilepsy Education Day, families gain insights and resources to better manage epilepsy care.
Locations and Accessibility
CHOP offers various locations throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, making it accessible for families seeking specialized epilepsy care. The program also supports families through administrative resources during the appointment process, ensuring a smooth experience from scheduling to diagnosis and treatment.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is known for its openness to international medical graduates (IMGs) and those holding Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degrees. It provides visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B candidates, facilitating the participation of a diverse range of fellows in the program.
Application Process and Requirements
Specific application requirements include proof of graduation dates, limit on failed STEP exams, and additional documentation as necessary. Prospective candidates are encouraged to prepare accordingly to meet the competitive selection criteria.
In addition to the personalized treatment plans designed for each child, the Pediatric Epilepsy Program remains committed to reducing the long-term effects of epilepsy and improving overall health, aiming for the best possible quality of life for its patients.
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Director
Sudha Kessler, MD, MSCEProgram Director, Pediatric Epilepsy Fellowship Appointed Since July 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
50 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
24 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$72,790First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
7.3XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.