East Tennessee State University/Quillen College of Medicine Program

The Pediatrics Residency Program at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), specifically the Quillen College of Medicine, is designed to shape residents into capable and empathetic physicians who advocate for the health of children, their families, and the broader community. The program emphasizes providing excellent general pediatric training, equipping residents with the necessary skills to become competent, board-certified pediatricians specializing in various fields.

The vision of the program is to instill a commitment to child advocacy and health equity, especially for underserved and rural populations. Residents learn through a collaborative, team-based care model, fostering a compassionate approach to comprehensive patient care. The pediatrics residency integrates practical experience with foundational knowledge to ensure that graduates excel in their medical careers.

Curriculum

The curriculum is comprehensive, designed to cover core pediatric concepts and specialties. It includes a longitudinal learning approach aligned with the renowned Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, which spans 18 months. This curriculum features a monthly focus on specific topics, allowing residents to deepen their understanding through various forms of didactic lectures, journal clubs, and interactive learning sessions.

Furthermore, the program includes resident conferences such as the Friday Morning Report and the Jain Jamboree to foster discussion and recognition of excellent resident performance. Residents also lead and participate in a critical Evidence-Based Medicine Journal Club, promoting the evaluation of clinical questions through selected literature

Clinical Rotations

Residents have the opportunity to engage in diverse clinical experiences through various rotations in pediatric health settings that include Niswonger Children’s Hospital and different outpatient clinics. These rotations facilitate exposure to a wide range of pediatric patients, ensuring that residents can apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Additionally, continuity clinics provide a space where residents can follow patients over the course of their training, promoting sustained relationships and comprehensive patient management.

Research and Quality Improvement

A crucial element of the residency is the engagement in quality improvement (QI) projects, starting from the first year. During this curriculum, residents work collaboratively to identify areas for enhancement within patient care processes and actively participate in data collection and implementation of improved protocols. Past QI projects have included the development of new treatment protocols for common pediatric conditions such as asthma and pneumonia.

Resident Salary and Benefits

Residents in the program are provided with a competitive annual salary structure, which for the academic year 2024-2025 is outlined as follows: PGY-1 at $59,827, PGY-2 at $61,615, and PGY-3 at $63,820. The program also allocates an education allowance of $400 per year and a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, and professional liability insurance. Residents also receive a generous vacation and sick leave policy, with 15 vacation days per year and support for pursuing administrative matters outside of clinical duties.

Competitiveness of the Program

The Pediatrics Residency Program is recognized as competitive, with a preference for applicants with U.S. clinical experience. The application process requires passing scores on USMLE Steps 1 & 2 or COMLEX Levels 1 & 2 on the first attempt, aligning with the program's commitment to high standards. The program sponsors J-1 visas and sets clear application requirements, including three letters of recommendation that assess the applicant's competencies. Applicants must also pass a criminal background check as part of the match process. Eight positions are available in each class, emphasizing the selective nature of admissions.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program prides itself on a faculty-to-resident ratio that favors mentorship, with experienced faculty members outnumbering residents. This structure allows for a more personalized training experience and frequent access to guidance from skilled providers. The program is notably student-friendly, welcoming graduates from U.S. osteopathic medical schools along with international medical graduates (IMGs).

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects and scholarly activities, with multiple opportunities supported by the faculty. The program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based medicine and encourages residents to cultivate critical appraisal skills and to participate in clinical research which can enhance their professional portfolio.

Visa Support

The Pediatrics Residency Program is capable of sponsoring J-1 visas for international applicants, ensuring that eligible non-U.S. citizens can participate in the residency training. This support is pivotal for building a diverse workforce in pediatrics, reflective of the population it serves.