Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

The Pediatric Residency program at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center is a comprehensive, fully accredited three-year training program that provides extensive inpatient and outpatient experiences. Central to the program is a commitment to high-value, family-centered care that is articulated through its core mission. Residents in this program are immersed in a healthcare environment that promotes advocacy, professional growth, and collaboration among residents, faculty, and the community. The program aims to prepare exemplary pediatricians who are not only knowledgeable and skilled but also compassionate and committed to children's health 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum of the Pediatric Residency is structured to encourage both personal and professional growth. It integrates core curriculum components with an individualized approach to learning. The program utilizes an innovative X + Y schedule, noted for its flexibility and personalization, which was implemented starting in 2022. In this schedule, residents engage in intensive clinical experiences (the X weeks) followed by a week dedicated to outpatient continuity and academic activities (the Y week). The Y week highlights include protected learning time devoted to primary care topics, personal wellness days, and longitudinal experiences that encompass community pediatrics and elective rotations 3.

Facilities and Units

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center features a 460-bed general hospital with comprehensive outpatient clinics. The Dartmouth Health Children's is recognized as a tertiary care facility, providing unique opportunities for residents to encounter a diverse range of pediatric cases. The program also operates specialized units including a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and an Intensive Care Nursery (ICN), which is the only one in New Hampshire. These facilities enable residents to gain hands-on experience across varied levels of care and complexity 4.

Research and Scholarly Activity

The program emphasizes scholarly activity, expecting each resident to complete a research project during their training. These projects often encompass a wide scope, including clinical research, healthcare delivery studies, and quality improvement initiatives. Strong support from faculty mentors and departmental funding bolsters residents' endeavors in scholarly work, with opportunities for presentations at national and regional meetings. This enriching environment fosters an atmosphere of academic inquiry and evidence-based practice 12.

Resident Well-Being

Recognizing the challenges residents face, the program prioritizes resident wellness. Offering a robust support system, the program includes initiatives such as four weeks of vacation, mental health support, facilitated debriefing sessions, and a Resident Mentoring Program pairing interns with senior residents. The environment encourages healthy lifestyle choices and personal development, which are essential for effective patient care and professional satisfaction 13.

Competitiveness and Applicant Qualifications

The Pediatric Residency program attracts a diverse group of applicants and is inclusive towards both MD and DO graduates as well as international medical graduates (IMGs), promoting a competitive yet supportive selection process. Applicants are typically expected to have completed USMLE or COMLEX Step 1 and must provide three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a detailed curriculum vitae 10. Additionally, programs have specific requirements for visa sponsorship, commonly offering support for J-1 visas, which are applicable for international medical graduates seeking clinical training in the United States.

Application Process

The application process is conducted through an online system, with a strict deadline for submission. Candidates desiring to join the program must adhere to all institutional eligibility requirements, including a passing score on USMLE Step 2 to be eligible for medical training licenses in New Hampshire. Communication regarding the status and next steps is typically conducted through email correspondence during the selection process 14.

Life in the Upper Valley

Residents enjoy their time in Lebanon, New Hampshire, known for its stunning natural beauty and livability. Lebanon is centrally located near numerous outdoor recreational activities, including skiing, hiking, and biking, providing a well-rounded quality of life for those engaged in rigorous medical training. Being part of a small yet vibrant community allows residents to balance their demanding schedules with leisure activities and social engagements 9.