Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium Program

Overview of the Fellowship Program

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program at Loma Linda University Health is recognized as one of the most innovative, flexible, and creative pediatric emergency medicine training programs in the United States. The program has the distinction of being the longest continuously running pediatric emergency medicine training fellowship in the western United States, having welcomed trainees every year since its inception in 1992. Its core focus lies in providing exceptional clinical exposure to critically ill and injured children, emphasizing compassionate care.

Notably, Loma Linda University Children's Hospital serves as the pediatric referral center for a vast region encompassing approximately 38,000 square miles, catering to over 1 million children in the Inland Empire. The fellowship is designed to maximize elective time and enhance individualized learning plans, with the overarching goal of fulfilling the mission of Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital to “make man whole.”

Curriculum Structure

The fellowship is structured thoughtfully, allowing each fellow to collaborate closely with fellowship leadership to create an individualized curriculum that promotes ongoing discovery and self-improvement, anchored in adult learning theory. During the first two years, all fellows will undertake the following rotations:

• 12 months in the Pediatric Emergency Department
• 1 month in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
• 1 month in Pediatric Anesthesia
• Additional rotations based on prior training:

Graduates of pediatrics will also spend a month in OB/GYN, while graduates of emergency medicine will rotate through the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Child Abuse Pediatrics, among others. The fellowship lasts 2 years for graduates of emergency medicine and extends to 3 years for graduates of pediatrics, with the latter functioning as attending physicians during the third year.

Required and Elective Rotations

Alongside structured learning sessions covering vital topics such as biostatistics, radiology, and procedural skills, fellows are encouraged to engage in elective rotations tailored to their interests. These electives can include various pediatric subspecialty clinics, allowing fellows to gain diverse experiences. The fellowship wiki offers a comprehensive list of available electives, showcasing the program's commitment to personalized education.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are also encouraged to engage in scholarly activities that contribute to their professional development and enhance the field of pediatric emergency medicine. Opportunities for research abound within the program, supported by a faculty dedicated to mentorship. Structured environments foster the development of research skills, facilitating contributions to advancing pediatric care.

Training Sites

Loma Linda University Children's Hospital boasts a state-of-the-art 232-bed facility specializing in pediatric care, with exceptional critical care resources available, including a large Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a robust Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). The Pediatric Emergency Department, a premier 18-bed facility, handles approximately 30,000 cases annually, emphasizing the program's commitment to providing high-quality emergency care.

Application Requirements

The application process for the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship is highly competitive. Candidates typically enter at the PGY-4 level, with a minimum of three letters of recommendation required, one from an emergency medicine physician and another from their residency director. All applicants must have passed the USMLE Step I, II, and III exams prior to consideration for an interview, with the interviews conducted from September to November. It is essential to note that Loma Linda University Medical Center does not sponsor visas for foreign medical graduates, making it crucial for international applicants to have the required visa capacity before application.

Faculty Expertise

The fellowship program is complemented by a robust faculty consisting of 17 full-time fellowship-trained pediatric emergency physicians. These educators possess diverse backgrounds and experiences from various prestigious institutions, fostering an environment of learning and advancement. Faculty members are not only committed to high-quality instruction but also participate actively in clinical practice and research, ensuring that fellows are exposed to the latest developments in pediatric emergency medicine.

Competitiveness and Applicant Diversity

As a highly competitive fellowship, the program seeks candidates who demonstrate strong clinical skills and dedication to pediatric emergency medicine. While it has been recognized for its selectivity, the fellowship remains accessible to diverse applicants, including graduates from both DO and international medical backgrounds, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria set forth.

Living in Southern California

Fellows at Loma Linda University benefit from living in Southern California, which offers a variety of lifestyle options. From outdoor activities in nearby mountains and beaches to cultural and community events, the region provides an enriching living experience outside the demanding rigors of fellowship training. Activities such as the Redlands Bicycle Classic and the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival showcase the vibrant community that surrounds the program, making for a balanced and enjoyable fellowship experience.