Mass General Brigham/Massachusetts General Hospital Program

The Regional Anesthesiology and Acute Pain Medicine Fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital is a specialized 12-month training program designed to furnish fellows with expert skills in regional and acute pain management. This program is structured to enhance the clinical competencies of anesthesiologists and is part of the Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine (DACCPM), which is celebrated for its commitment to high standards in patient care and education.

This ACGME-accredited fellowship accepts two fellows each year, and applicants must meet specific educational and professional criteria. Candidates must be graduates from either an American Osteopathic Association (AOA)-accredited or a Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)-accredited medical school. Additionally, a completed anesthesiology residency accredited by either the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) is required to qualify for entry into the fellowship 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is focused on providing comprehensive training in various aspects of acute postoperative pain management, with particular emphasis on regional anesthesia techniques. Over the course of the fellowship, fellows will engage in hands-on experience in multiple clinical settings, ensuring exposure to a wide array of procedures and management strategies, including ultrasound-guided nerve blocks and management of opioid dependence 1.

Rotation Structure

Fellows will follow a structured rotation schedule comprising:

• **Acute pain and regional anesthesia** - Eight and a half months
• **Chronic inpatient pain elective** - Two weeks
• **Obstetric anesthesia elective** - Two weeks
• **Addiction medicine elective** - Two weeks
• **Pediatric regional elective** - One week
• **Vacation** - Four weeks
• **Academic day** - One day per month
• **Meetings** - Five days per year

This diverse rotation framework emphasizes both practical patient care and the acquisition of broader knowledge through multidisciplinary conferences, faculty lectures, and journal clubs, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience 1.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship provides avenues for engaging in research activities relevant to regional anesthesia and acute pain management. Fellows are encouraged to initiate projects or collaborate on ongoing studies, promoting academic inquiry and the advancement of best practices in pain management 1.

Visa Support

Massachusetts General Hospital recognizes the need for proper visa arrangements for international applicants. The program facilitates appropriate visa sponsorship for fellows who are not United States citizens or legal permanent residents. Through the Mass General Brigham Office for Global Professionals and Scholars, candidates can receive guidance regarding the necessary visa types for their fellowship appointment 1.

Competitiveness of the Program

Admission into the fellowship is notably competitive. Selection is based on a comprehensive review of completed applications, which includes a personal statement, curriculum vitae, medical school transcripts, USMLE or COMLEX scores, and letters of recommendation. The program looks for applicants who demonstrate a commitment to pursuing a career in regional anesthesia and acute pain medicine 1.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit various documents through the SF Match, including:

• A complete CAS application
• A personal statement detailing interests in the fellowship and future career plans
• A current CV
• Medical school transcripts and diploma
• USMLE (steps 1, 2, and 3) or COMLEX (1, 2, and 3) transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation (including one from the residency program director)
• ECFMG certification for international medical graduates

Attendance at national conferences, such as the American Society of Regional Anesthesia (ASRA) meeting, is also encouraged for fellows. These gatherings offer opportunities for networking, education, and exposure to recent advancements in pain management techniques 1.

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

The fellowship program at Mass General emphasizes a commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. It aims to ensure that all members of the department experience a strong sense of belonging and equality throughout their training 1.