Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/Kravis Children's Program

The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai offers a comprehensive Pediatric Residency Program at the Mount Sinai Kravis Children's Hospital, focused on developing skilled, compassionate pediatricians who are well-equipped to address the challenges of pediatric healthcare. The program is oriented towards integrating science, education, and community advocacy into clinical training.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum for pediatric residents is carefully structured to provide extensive clinical exposure and educational breadth, nurturing residents’ abilities to excel in diverse pediatric domains. Training begins with a strong foundation in primary care pediatrics, supplemented by opportunities in various subspecialties. Through structured rotations and didactic sessions, residents obtain comprehensive exposure to the healthcare needs of a varied patient population, reflecting the rich diversity of New York City, and gain experiences that inform their practice in general pediatrics and subspecialties in fields such as endocrinology and nephrology 1.

Rotation Structure

Residents participate in rotating responsibilities across multiple settings, including the prestigious Mount Sinai Kravis Children's Hospital and the community ambulatory center. The rotations are designed to provide PGY-1 residents with foundational responsibilities, including caring for patients under the supervision of senior residents and staff. As residents progress to PGY-2 and PGY-3, they assume greater responsibilities, developing their supervisory and teaching skills 3.

Research Opportunities

Research plays a pivotal role in the residency experience at Mount Sinai. Residents are encouraged to engage in academic projects, benefiting from the institution's robust research infrastructure and funding opportunities. A significant aspect of the program is the Pediatric Scholars Grant Program, which provides financial support for research projects, alongside opportunities to present findings at national conferences 12. Residents also benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty throughout their research journeys.

Advocacy and Community Engagement

The program emphasizes the importance of community service and advocacy, training residents to address pediatric health disparities actively. The curriculum includes longitudinal and block components in advocacy, exposing residents to local community settings where they can engage with families and witness the complexities affecting pediatric health 2. Residents are involved in initiatives addressing social determinants of health, violence prevention, and other pertinent children’s health issues, reinforcing the program's commitment to holistic pediatric care.

Global Health Track

For those interested in global health, the program offers a dedicated Global Health Track. This track involves a preparatory curriculum, culminating in a clinical rotation at partner sites, including hospitals in Kenya. Residents engaged in this track are positioned to explore health disparities internationally and apply their learning to local initiatives 11.

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and equity are foundational to the program’s mission. The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai actively fosters an environment inclusive of all backgrounds, with initiatives aimed at enhancing the representation and support of underrepresented minorities in medicine 9. The program integrates formal training on issues related to racism and bias and encourages resident involvement in initiatives promoting social justice in health care.

Resident Life and Wellness

Maintaining resident wellness is a priority at Mount Sinai, where various social events and wellness activities are organized to promote a balanced residency experience. The program fosters a close-knit community and provides opportunities for camaraderie among residents through gatherings, annual retreats, and events throughout New York City 10. Additionally, residents enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including subsidized housing, health care plans, and a supportive environment tailored to their diverse needs.

Visa Support

The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs) through J-1 and H-1B visas. This enables a diverse pool of talented individuals from various backgrounds to participate in the residency program, enhancing the breadth of experiences shared among trainees 1.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is highly competitive, welcoming applications from both MD and DO graduates, including those from diverse backgrounds such as international medical graduates. It upholds a holistic review process, considering not only academic achievements but also the commitment to pediatric health and advocacy. Some specific application requirements include a limit on failed USMLE Step exams and consideration for only applicants who have graduated within a specified timeframe 12.