Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Program

The 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.