MaineHealth Program

The MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Emergency Medicine Services Fellowship is a one-year, ACGME-accredited training program designed for emergency physicians seeking advancement and board certification in EMS medicine. As the only EMS fellowship program in Northern New England, it offers a unique opportunity to gain in-depth training and experience in this specialized medical field.

This fellowship is structured in partnership with notable institutions, including the Portland Fire Department, which operates the busiest 911 service in Maine, and LifeFlight of Maine, the state's only helicopter critical care transport service. Such collaborations ensure that the clinical exposure for fellows is diverse and comprehensive, featuring a blend of local, regional, and national EMS practices 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is aimed at enhancing fellows’ competency in various aspects of emergency medicine and EMS. With a focus on real-world experience, fellows will oversee emergency medical care in various settings, thus gaining insights into: local medical direction, regional medical support, statewide operations, and national specialty services. The fellows will also engage actively with the Portland Fire Department, participating in frontline patient care and providing medical oversight during emergency responses 1.

Clinical Rotations

The structure of the fellowship includes significant field experience and hands-on clinical time. Fellows will rotate through several key areas:

• Portland Fire Department: Fellows spend considerable time working directly with frontline emergency responders across five geographic districts of Portland, offering exposure to a wide variety of medical emergencies.
• LifeFlight of Maine: A dedicated rotation allows fellows to learn directly from the critical care transport team, involve themselves in clinical governance, quality improvement, and educational initiatives, and gain flight experience.

This fellowship emphasizes direct supervision by faculty who are active within the EMS community, ensuring that fellows receive immediate feedback and training in practical scenarios. Fellows also engage in quality improvement initiatives and special response teams, such as Haz-Mat and marine units, broadening their exposure to emergency medicine 1.

Research Opportunities

The program integrates research into its structure, offering fellows the chance to engage in quality improvement projects and clinical research across various aspects of EMS medicine. Fellows will have opportunities to present their findings and participate in journal clubs and various academic endeavors, fostering an environment of academic growth and clinical skill advancement 1.

Training Environment and Well-being

Maine Medical Center is a Level 1 trauma center and a premier teaching hospital in Northern New England. It features a comprehensive stroke center and various specialized services, ensuring that fellows are trained in a wide array of medical emergencies 1. The program is committed to promoting resident and fellow well-being, recognizing the importance of self-care in managing the rigors of post-graduate medical education.

Fellowship Competitiveness

The application to the fellowship is competitive. The ideal candidates are board-certified or board-eligible emergency physicians who demonstrate a passion for pre-hospital medicine. The program values diversity and inclusivity, striving to build a cohort that reflects these principles 1.

Visa Sponsorship and Application Process

The program welcomes applications from international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorship for fellows, including J-1 visas. Applications are accepted starting July 1st, with specific documentation required including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and three letters of recommendation. Special attention is given to recent graduates and those with minimal failed examinations on the USMLE or COMLEX 1.

Life in Portland

Portland, known for its vibrant urban atmosphere and beautiful coastline, offers fellows a unique living experience. The city provides various recreational opportunities, from outdoor adventures to a thriving culinary scene, making it an attractive place to live as you progress through your fellowship.