Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Program

Overview of the Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship Program

The Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship Program at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is an ACGME-accredited program specifically designed to provide an extensive clinical experience for trainees aiming to become proficient perioperative consultants in pediatric anesthesiology. The program emphasizes the acquisition of the knowledge, psychomotor skills, and the ethical attitudes necessary in this specialized field, while also integrating a comprehensive educational curriculum enriched with simulation training. Graduates from this fellowship have become some of the most recognized clinicians, educators, and researchers nationally and internationally.

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship offers a variety of pathways including a standard 12-month training track as well as two 24-month options tailored for those interested in pursuing a career in academic pediatric anesthesiology or pediatric cardiac anesthesiology. All tracks begin with an intensive 12-month clinical experience divided into rotation blocks which provide exposure to critical components of pediatric anesthesia practice.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows complete thirteen 4-week rotation blocks during their first year. The rotations include:

• Three blocks of cardiac anesthesiology, which emphasizes care for children with congenital heart disease.
• One block of regional anesthesiology.
• One block focusing on pediatric difficult airway management.
• One block on acute pain service.
• One block in pediatric critical care medicine.
• One half block of non-OR anesthesia, covering areas such as imaging, oncology, and gastroenterology.
• One supervisory block functioning in the capacity of an attending.
• A vacation block allowing for up to 25 days off.

Educational Program

The educational curriculum is comprehensive, aimed at fostering a robust foundational experience. Components include certification opportunities in Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS), a fellow didactic series that features lectures, problem-based learning, and simulation training. This is bolstered by supplementary activities such as journal clubs, grand rounds, and multidisciplinary simulation series to ensure a well-rounded educational exposure.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical facet of the fellowship, where fellows are expected to engage in scholarly projects that could range from clinical research to quality improvement initiatives. Fellows have access to the CHOP Research Institute, which facilitates numerous investigational programs and projects.

Two-Year Fellowship Tracks

In addition to the traditional 12-month fellowship, CHOP offers two distinct 24-month fellowship tracks:

Academic Pediatric Anesthesiology Track

This track is geared towards fellows aiming for academic careers in pediatric anesthesiology. The second year emphasizes research with additional academic time to develop tailored projects under expert mentorship.

Pediatric Cardiac Anesthesiology Track

This specialized track is focused on fostering skills specific to pediatric cardiac anesthesia. The second year enriches the fellow's experience with dedicated clinical cardiac anesthesia training and additional academic pursuits.

International Fellowship Option

For international medical graduates, an Advanced Academic Pediatric Anesthesiology fellowship is available that includes a comprehensive clinical experience complemented by academic training. Candidates must have completed board eligibility or certification in their home country along with the USMLE examinations and ECFMG certification. The program supports visa sponsorship including J-1 visas.

Application Process and Requirements

CHOP participates in the Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship San Francisco match, with up to 12 fellowship positions available annually. Applications typically open in January and close in June. Candidates must provide a complete application including letters of recommendation, transcripts, and USMLE scores.

Important application criteria include board eligibility or certification, certification in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and an unrestricted Pennsylvania medical license. For international applicants, specific documents related to USMLE and ECFMG certification are necessary.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship Program at CHOP is highly competitive, welcoming qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds. Their commitment to fostering inclusivity provides a supportive environment for all fellows.

Vaccination Policies

As part of its commitment to health and safety, CHOP mandates COVID-19 vaccinations for all members of its workforce, including fellows. Compliance with this policy, alongside annual influenza vaccination, is essential for fellowship candidates.