Louisiana State University School of Medicine Program

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program at Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans offers a comprehensive three-year accredited training designed for up to two fellows per year. As the first and only Pediatric Emergency Medicine (PEM) fellowship in Louisiana, the program is focused on cultivating the next generation of pediatric emergency medicine specialists. Its mission is to provide fellows with extensive educational experiences that ensure their development as proficient clinicians, educators, and researchers in the field.1

One of the program's core commitments is to create a supportive educational environment that promotes professional growth, with an emphasis on clinical expertise and research skills. The fellows will engage in a multitude of clinical experiences to assess and manage common pediatric emergencies such as trauma, shock, infection, and respiratory distress. Additionally, they will learn how to handle complex medical and surgical emergencies, alongside navigating crucial issues related to child health including child abuse, mental health, and child advocacy.1

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship is designed to offer extensive clinical exposure through rotations based in Children's Hospital New Orleans and other participating sites like University Medical Center. Fellows can anticipate working 8-12 hour shifts during their rotation months, always under the supervision of experienced PEM faculty, which provides a smooth progression in patient care responsibility as their training advances.8

Throughout the training, fellows will experience core medical and surgical emergency lectures and engage in shared core fellowship topics which may include quality improvement, ethical considerations in medicine, and best practices in patient safety. Furthermore, the program integrates highly regarded interdisciplinary simulation training which is facilitated at the LSU Health Sciences Center Simulation Center.4

Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on research and scholarship, with significant dedicated time allocated for fellows to engage in research projects under the guidance of experienced mentors and a dedicated Scholarship Oversight Committee.9

Educational Activities

Fellows are supported through a variety of didactic opportunities covering essential topics pertinent to pediatric emergency medicine and broader medical practices. The curriculum includes morbidity and mortality conferences, ECG review sessions with experts, and a series of simulation exercises, all designed to bolster the fellows' practical and theoretical knowledge.4

Wellness and Support

The fellowship program acknowledges the importance of mental health and wellness within a demanding medical education framework. The LSU Health Sciences Center campus provides complimentary access to support services aimed at nurturing the emotional and physical well-being of residents.10

Diversity and Community Engagement

LSUHSC embraces diversity and maintains an active commitment to community engagement. The institution fosters an inclusive environment that encourages the growth of healthcare professionals from a variety of backgrounds, aiming to address disparities and enhance cultural competency in clinical settings.3

Application Requirements

Candidates must fulfill specific eligibility criteria to apply for this fellowship, including successful completion of a pediatric residency at an accredited institution and obtaining a valid ECFMG certificate if they graduated from a non-U.S. medical school. The program is competitive and also welcomes applications from DOs and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). For visa purposes, the program is able to sponsor J-1 visas for qualified applicants.9

House Officer Benefits

Fellows benefit from a comprehensive package of leave and wellness options, including non-cumulative vacation leave, sick leave, and paid educational leave. Health insurance options are also available for fellows to enroll in, with inclusion in essential benefits like malpractice insurance and disability coverage.2

Interview Experience

The fellowship employs an equitable interview process, conducted remotely via the ZOOM platform, ensuring consistent and fair evaluation of all candidates. The application process requires submission through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Required documents include a curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and USMLE scores.7

Experience New Orleans

Fellows have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of New Orleans, known for its cuisine, festivals, and rich history. This city is home to a diverse array of restaurants, cultural events, and outdoor activities that contribute to a unique living and learning experience.6