Cleveland Clinic Foundation/Akron General Program

Cleveland Clinic Akron General offers a 1-year ACGME-accredited fellowship in Surgical Critical Care (SCC), designed for comprehensive training in critical care and to enhance the fellow's future career opportunities in academic surgery or private practice. This program emphasizes a blend of clinical exposure, mentorship, and educational responsibilities.

To be eligible for this fellowship, candidates must have successfully completed five years of US postgraduate training, which may include both surgical residency and additional fellowship training. By the start of the program, fellows are expected to manage complex cases, including trauma or emergency surgeries in a tertiary care setting.1

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship entails a structured rotation schedule, consisting of ten four-week blocks within various critical care areas, including Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU), Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU), and Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU). Additionally, fellows have opportunities to engage in elective rotations covering Acute Care Surgery, Trauma Surgery, and Neuro-ICU, aiming for a well-rounded critical care education.1

Research and Scholarly Activity

Fellowship candidates are encouraged to participate in scholarly activities, fulfilling ACGME's requirements for research output. Activities can include quality improvement projects, the development of educational materials, and presenting case reports or original research at various professional forums.1

Teaching and Learning Environment

Cleveland Clinic Akron General is affiliated with the Northeastern Ohio College of Medicine (NEOMED), providing fellows with opportunities to teach medical students and surgical residents during their rotations. Regularly scheduled lectures address a multidisciplinary approach to surgical critical care, enhancing the educational experience of fellows.1

Facilities and Resources

The program utilizes a state-of-the-art simulation center, equipped with diverse task trainers for essential procedures like intubation and central line placement. The medical library provides 24/7 access to scholarly materials, enhancing research and learning opportunities for fellows. Moreover, the department supports medical students and trainees focused on research in surgical critical care settings through dedicated guidance and resources.2

Application Process and Requirements

Applications to the Surgical Critical Care Fellowship must be submitted online through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and the SCC and ACS Fellowship Application Service (SAFAS). Candidates need a complete application that includes the ERAS application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and USMLE or COMLEX Board scores. It is essential for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) applying for this fellowship to possess a valid ECFMG certificate and comply with specific visa requirements, including J1 and H1B sponsorships, while ensuring they graduated from medical school within five years.2

Stipends and Benefits

The fellowship program offers competitive stipends, along with various benefits including a 401K retirement plan, health insurance, and educational allowances for textbooks and training materials. Residents also gain access to wellness centers and are supported by facilities that ensure a conducive learning environment.2

Visa Sponsorship

The program provides visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates on both J1 and H1B visas. Prospective fellows must meet specific eligibility requirements that include obtaining appropriate licensure in Ohio and fulfilling ECFMG stipulations regarding certification and application timelines.2

Program Competitiveness

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at Cleveland Clinic Akron General is considered competitive. Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong academic credentials, successful board scores, and recommendations. The program is IC-friendly and recognizes diversity among applicants, with clear pathways for IMGs and DO candidates to apply.2