Geisinger Health System Program

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at Geisinger equips fellows with essential skills using evidence-based practices to manage complex surgical and trauma patients. The program is a one-year ACGME-accredited fellowship aimed at preparing its fellows for successful certification by the American Board of Surgery. This opportunity is available at Geisinger Medical Center, a designated Level One trauma center and a tertiary referral facility serving the surrounding communities.1

As a fellow, one will benefit from enriching experiences within independent, closed surgical and trauma intensive care units that handle a wide array of disease pathologies. In addition to the substantial clinical exposure, the curriculum merges didactic learning with simulations to ensure comprehensive training. The faculty supports each fellow in developing not only technical proficiency but also a compassionate approach to patient care, fostering lifelong professional relationships.1

The Geisinger Difference

At the heart of Geisinger are core values of integrity, leadership, teamwork, and service that define its commitment to quality, patient-centered care across northeastern Pennsylvania. The program accepts one fellow per academic year and emphasizes the importance of developing a compassionate, empathetic outlook towards patient care, aligning with these values.1

Curriculum Overview

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship provides an extensive educational and clinical experience. The rotation schedule comprises 13 four-week blocks focused on multidisciplinary patient care drawn from the critical care and general surgery departments. The focused rotations include:

• Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) — 4 blocks
• Trauma Intensive Care Unit (TICU) — 4.5 blocks
• Anesthesia — 0.5 block
• CVICU (Cardiac/Thoracic/Vascular/Transplant) — 1 block
• NSICU (Neuro Critical Care Unit) — 1 block
• Emergency General Surgery (EGS) — 1 block

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Application Process

The program participates in the Surgical Critical Care and Acute Care Surgery Fellowship Application Service (SAFAS) for the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Applications open on March 1, and the fellowship accepts applications from candidates holding J1 visas.2 Candidates will undergo an interview process, which is conducted by invitation only, providing them with an overview of the fellowship and opportunities to meet faculty and current fellows.2

Competitiveness and Additional Requirements

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at Geisinger is considered to be competitively selective, focusing on candidates who possess a passion for comprehensive patient care and attention to detail. While specific criteria such as maximum failed STEP exams are not detailed, candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency and readiness through their application materials and interview process.2

Location and Community

Geisinger Medical Center is located in Danville, Pennsylvania, a historic riverside community that offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, such as kayaking, cross-country skiing, and cycling. The location strikes a balance between a serene small-town environment and proximity to major urban centers including New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., allowing fellows to experience both tranquility and vibrant city life.1

Faculty and Support

The fellowship program is supported by a dedicated group of faculty members, including board-certified critical care surgeons. The collaborative nature of the fellowship encourages interactions with other subspecialists, promoting a diverse learning atmosphere. Faculty engagement is a crucial part of the educational experience, ensuring fellows receive comprehensive guidance and mentorship throughout their fellowship.3