Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Program

At Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, the Pediatric Surgery Fellowship is a two-year training program dedicated to providing a comprehensive and high-volume clinical experience. The fellowship is designed for one fellow selected each year through the National Resident Matching Program. Applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited general surgical training program and be eligible to take the ABS qualifying examination administered by the American Board of Surgery.

This program is one of the oldest pediatric surgery training programs in the United States, having been established in 1965, and has trained over 50 pediatric surgeons to date. The program prioritizes diversity and equity, working to create an inclusive learning environment.

Curriculum Overview

The Pediatric Surgery Fellowship curriculum encompasses a didactic approach based on the Surgical Council on Resident Education (SCORE) curriculum. Each fellow is expected to complete all topics outlined in this curriculum during their training. Weekly morbidity and mortality conferences, case discussions, and journal clubs ensure continuous learning and growth. The program also hosts quarterly mock oral board exams and workshops focused on ethics and neonatology.

In the first year, fellows undertake multiple rotations, including a one-month Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) rotation focused on managing premature infants and a one-month Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) rotation emphasizing pediatric ventilator management and critical care.

Rotations

The rotations for fellows include:

• First Year:
  NICU: 1 month
  PICU: 1 month
  Urology: 2 weeks
• Second Year:
  ENT: 2 weeks
  Fetal Surgery: 1 month
  Colorectal Surgery: 1 month

The program is structured to provide a rich training experience, allowing fellows to participate in a variety of surgical procedures.

Subspecialty Training

The Pediatric Surgery Division offers specialized training opportunities through various subspecialty fellowship programs. These include Vascular Anomalies, ECMO, Colorectal Surgery, Fetal Surgery, and Pediatric Trauma fellowships. These programs are designed for individuals looking for enhanced expertise in specific pediatric surgical domains.

Unique Aspects

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital is recognized as a Level 1 ACS verified trauma center with a dedicated children's hospital that has over 600 beds. It stands out for its comprehensive multi-disciplinary approach to pediatric surgical care, offering fellows the opportunity to engage with diverse surgical cases and learn from experienced faculty with specialized interests.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The fellowship program is highly competitive. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their qualifications through a robust application process, which includes submitting three letters of recommendation. Successful candidates typically have a strong academic background and previous surgical training.

The program supports visa sponsorship for eligible international applicants, typically providing sponsorship for J-1 visas. It is advised that candidates review their application eligibility carefully.

Team Structure

The program fosters a collaborative team environment, comprising one fellow per year who works closely with faculty, general surgery residents, and nurse practitioners. This collaborative approach enhances the quality of care provided to patients and promotes effective learning.

Each fellow runs their service under the guidance of attending surgeons and is supported by a dedicated team of nurse practitioners who provide continuous patient care.

Living in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is known for its rich culture, vibrant arts scene, and family-friendly environment. The cost of living is reasonable compared to other metropolitan areas, making it an attractive option for trainees. Moreover, Cincinnati Children's Hospital's strategic location allows easy access to a variety of recreational activities and amenities.