Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium Program

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at Loma Linda University Health is a comprehensive two-year program designed to cultivate highly competent physicians in the field of surgical critical care. The program promotes excellence in patient management in various critical care settings, including surgical, trauma, and cardiothoracic ICUs. Its accreditation by the ACGME ensures that the curriculum adheres to rigorous standards of medical education.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship's curriculum is meticulously crafted to provide extensive training in medical and surgical critical care. Each fellow will experience the following rotations throughout the fellowship:

• Eight medical ICU rotations
• Two surgical ICU rotations
• One neurosurgical ICU rotation
• One cardiothoracic ICU rotation
• Rotations in infectious diseases, pulmonary, nephrology, and interventional pulmonology
• Four night float rotations
• Four scholarly project rotations
• Two elective rotations spanning various critical care specialties

In addition to clinical experience, fellows participate in multiple educational activities designed to bolster learning and practice in critical care medicine. These activities include core curriculum lectures, monthly journal clubs, and simulations on foundational critical care procedures.1

Research Opportunities

Research plays an integral role in the fellowship, with approximately one-third of the training dedicated to scholarly activities. Fellows will engage in original investigations and quality improvement projects spanning their training. The first year focuses on identifying a mentor and establishing research protocols, while the second year emphasizes study implementation and completion.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program emphasizes a multifaceted approach to professional development. Opportunities in educational teaching, quality improvement, and leadership skills are provided throughout the fellowship.1

Additionally, fellows practice in a unique patient population, often addressing systemic health disparities due to the program's location within a medically underserved area.1

Training Sites

The training is conducted in a state-of-the-art tertiary care facility, allowing fellows to manage a diverse range of high-acuity patients. The combination of clinical and didactic training enhances fellows' skills, ensuring they emerge as leaders in surgical critical care.

Visa Support and Competition

The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship, accommodating international medical graduates in pursuing their training. The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship is competitive; however, it welcomes applications from DO candidates and international medical graduates, enhancing diversity within the cohort. Specific requirements may include eligibility for the NRMP and limitations on the number of attempts for USMLE Step exams.2

Living in Loma Linda

Loma Linda, located in Southern California, provides a vibrant community for residents. The region boasts outdoor activities, cultural landmarks, and various recreational opportunities. The housing market in the Inland Empire is notably affordable compared to other Los Angeles metro areas, facilitating comfortable living conditions for fellows and their families.2

Application Requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program in surgery or a relevant specialty. Potential candidates must demonstrate an understanding of critical care principles, showcasing clinical expertise and a genuine interest in the field.