Lehigh Valley Health Network Program

The Pediatric Residency Program at Lehigh Valley Health Network is dedicated to fostering the growth and professional development of its residents. With a robust training framework, the program encompasses general pediatrics, subspecialty care, and community health to adequately equip residents with the necessary skills for their future careers.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is designed to prioritize resident education above service. This includes a variety of rotations that cover different aspects of pediatric health care, ensuring comprehensive training throughout the residency years. The clinical experience is spread over three years (PGY-1, PGY-2, and PGY-3), with a core emphasis on tailored educational experiences based on individual career goals and interests.

In the first year (PGY-1), residents engage in core rotations such as inpatient pediatrics, emergency medicine, and neonatal intensive care. The second year (PGY-2) focuses on expanding subspecialty experiences along with continued core training, while the final year (PGY-3) includes increased involvement in leadership, mentorship, and opportunities for elective rotations in subspecialties. Overall, the program encompasses both general and specialized pediatric training, allowing flexibility in the residents' schedules to customize training according to personal interests and future aspirations.

Key Rotations

Key rotations include:

• Inpatient Pediatrics
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Neonatal Care
• Pediatric Intensive Care
• Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics

Additionally, residents are required to complete core rotations in subspecialties such as pediatric cardiology, gastroenterology, and oncology, among others, allowing for hands-on experience with diverse patient populations.

Research and Scholarly Activity

The program emphasizes the importance of academic research and requires all residents to complete a scholarly activity during their tenure. Residents engage in clinical research, literature reviews, and various other avenues of scholarly work to advance the field of pediatrics and their own learning experience.

Community and Global Health Involvement

Lehigh Valley Health Network is engaged with local community services such as the Valley Youth House and partnerships aimed at promoting youth health education and outreach. Residents have the opportunity to participate in these community-focused initiatives which stress the importance of holistic and inclusive health care.

Application Requirements

For aspiring residents, the Lehigh Valley Pediatric Residency program extends an invitation to graduates from allopathic and osteopathic medical schools. The program does not set a minimum passing score for the USMLE examinations; however, passing on the first attempt is preferred. Candidates planning to secure a J-1 visa are considered for the program, with no specific clinical or research experience in the US mandated, though it is advantageous.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The program has an inclusive approach, inviting candidates from various backgrounds including International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and DO graduates. This friendliness toward diversity reflects in the residency's commitment to creating an inclusive environment. The program participates in the NRMP for resident selection based on merit, individual capability, and potential contribution to the community.

Resident Benefits

Beyond a competitive salary, pediatric residents at Lehigh Valley Health Network enjoy numerous benefits such as educational funds for conferences, paid memberships to professional organizations, uniform provision, and certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support and Neonatal Resuscitation.

Living in the Lehigh Valley

The Lehigh Valley, situated near major urban centers, offers a growing economy with a relatively lower cost of living. Being part of a vibrant community, residents can enjoy a balanced lifestyle while pursuing their training in a supportive environment that prioritizes wellness and personal growth.