McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University Program

The Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship program at the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, administered through the McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University, offers an extensive clinical and academic experience tailored to the interests of each fellow. This ACGME-accredited program prepares fellows for subspecialty board certification as mandated by the American Board of Anesthesiology. Lurie Children’s Hospital is situated adjacent to Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in downtown Chicago, providing a vibrant, state-of-the-art training environment

1.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows in the program are immersed in a variety of clinical areas, working closely with board-certified pediatric anesthesia faculty. The clinical exposure encompasses complex pediatric surgical cases, perioperative pain management, and critical care services. Notably, fellows consistently surpass ACGME minimum requirements, achieving over the 75th percentile nationally for neonatal cases and peripheral nerve blocks

1.

Cardiac Anesthesia

During their training, fellows participate in over 300 cardiopulmonary bypass cases and more than 1,000 cardiac catheterizations each year. Lurie Children’s has a distinguished reputation as the busiest pediatric heart transplant center in the United States, offering fellows hands-on experience with medically complex patients, including those undergoing cardiac procedures

1.

Pain Medicine

Fellows in the program are also trained in advanced regional anesthesia techniques, under the guidance of renowned faculty. The pain management component of the program equips fellows to integrate innovative analgesic strategies into practice. Participation in outpatient and inpatient pain management services further enhances clinical proficiency

1.

Research Opportunities

The Department of Anesthesia encourages active research participation, where fellows often publish in esteemed journals. Incoming fellows are paired with research mentors to develop their projects early, providing a clear pathway for engagement in scholarly activities

1.

Curriculum and Didactics

Fellows regularly participate in morning didactic conferences that include workshops, grand rounds, and simulation sessions. The fellowship emphasizes preparation for board certification, with mock examinations and specialized training in pediatric anesthesiology topics

1.

Application Process and Requirements

To apply for the Pediatric Anesthesiology fellowship, candidates must be eligible or fully certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology before starting their fellowship. Essential prerequisites include obtaining an Illinois Temporary or Permanent License and passing USMLE Step 3. All positions are filled through the NRMP Match, with about 10 fellowships available each year

1. Additionally, the program has specific application requirements including submission of an updated curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation, medical school transcripts, and exam results, in line with the SF Match procedures

1.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates, which typically includes H-1B or J-1 visa types, facilitating opportunities for non-U.S. citizens to participate in training.

Competitiveness and Applicant Profile

The program is considered highly competitive, attracting applicants from a variety of backgrounds, including U.S. and international medical graduates. The fellowship is known for being friendly towards DO and IMG candidates, thereby promoting a diverse applicant pool.

Fellow Benefits

This fellowship offers a competitive salary along with 20 days of paid vacation and options for meeting allowances and educational resources, enhancing fellow well-being and professional growth opportunities

1.