Children's National Hospital/George Washington University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Pediatric pulmonologyACGME Code:
3301021049Program Overview
The Children's National Hospital/George Washington University Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship program is dedicated to training the next generation of leaders in pediatric pulmonary medicine. This fellowship provides a comprehensive educational framework that combines extensive clinical exposure, didactic learning, and research opportunities. Fellows receive an in-depth understanding of respiratory conditions in children, including complex cases, through rotations in multiple specialized units.
Curriculum
The Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship typically spans three years and is structured to offer a broad array of clinical experiences. The curriculum includes the management of various pediatric pulmonary conditions, with a strong emphasis on understanding and treating respiratory issues in infants and children. The fellowship includes rotations through the Children’s National Hospital, which houses a Level 4 NICU, and other affiliated hospitals, with each rotation tailored to maximize exposure to different cases and management strategies.
Clinical Rotations
Diverse clinical rotations are offered, including dedicated time in outpatient clinics, inpatient services, and specialized research. Notably:
- Children’s National Hospital: A major pediatric hospital offering extensive experience in treating complex respiratory conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, asthma, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
- George Washington University Hospital: A pivotal site for fellows to gain experience in higher-acuity cases and collaborative care with maternal-fetal medicine specialists during perinatal rotations.
- Consultation Services: Fellows engage actively in consultations across the pediatric spectrum to build interdisciplinary collaboration skills and improve comprehensive care abilities.
Research Opportunities
The program fosters a strong research culture amongst fellows. Early in the fellowship, fellows work to identify areas of personal interest and are matched with faculty mentors who guide their research initiatives. Scholarly activities can span basic science, translational research, and quality improvement projects. Regular meetings with mentors from the Division of Pulmonology and the broader Children's Research Institute ensure that fellows receive valuable feedback and direction.7
Benefits and Support
The Children's National Hospital provides a competitive benefits package to all fellows. This includes health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, and an educational stipend for conference attendance and supplementary training resources. Notably, the stipulated salary scale reflects a well-structured progression throughout the fellowship years, allowing for financial planning during training.
Visa Support
The program is supportive of international medical graduates and can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas for eligible fellows. This facilitates the inclusion of diverse candidates, enriching the learning environment through various cultural perspectives and experiences.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship program is highly competitive. The program welcomes applications from both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), promoting an inclusive environment that values diversity.3 Candidates must meet specific criteria, including a maximum of two failed USMLE attempts and recent graduation from medical school, generally within the last three years. Each applicant's background is considered holistically during the selection process, valuing clinical experience, research endeavors, and professional recommendations.
Unique Aspects of the Program
What sets this program apart is its commitment to merging high-caliber clinical training with an emphasis on research. The fellowship integrates didactic sessions and simulation training to enhance clinical decision-making skills and procedural expertise. Additionally, the division’s collaborative research initiatives, particularly involving innovations in patient care and outcomes, provide fellows with opportunities that may lead to impactful contributions within the field.
Educational Environment
The educational opportunities provided by the fellowship are extensive. Weekly seminars and monthly conferences feature topics from ethics in pediatric care to cutting-edge research practices. Participation in journal clubs and case presentations helps fellows cultivate critical thinking and presentation skills that are crucial in academic medicine.
Mentorship
Fellows are paired with experienced faculty members who serve as mentors throughout their training, promoting both professional development and personal growth. This mentorship fosters not only clinical competence and research acumen but also the ability to navigate the complexities of a career in pediatric medicine.
Conclusion
Through a multifaceted approach combining clinical experience, research, and comprehensive education, the Children's National Hospital/George Washington University Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship provides an unparalleled training opportunity for future leaders in pediatric pulmonology.
Website
Director
Iman R Sami-Zakhari, MD, MRCPDirector, Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship Program Appointed Since October 2001Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$84,598First 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:
2Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
