Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program
Location:
Milwaukee, WISpecialty:
Critical care medicine (Anesthesiology)ACGME Code:
0455621025The Critical Care Medicine Fellowship Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin is a rigorous two-year ACGME-accredited training aimed at developing proficiency in both the basic and clinical aspects of critical care medicine. This program is particularly designed for graduates of internal medicine residency programs who aspire to become experts in managing critically ill patients.
Program Overview
The program places a strong emphasis on fostering master physiologists, critical thinkers, expert diagnosticians, and exceptional teachers among its fellows. Through a combination of formal lectures, practical learning, and interactive discussions, fellows are mentored to cultivate a deep understanding of physiology and evidence-based medicine, which serves as the backbone of their training 1.
Training Sites
The primary training sites are Froedtert Hospital, a large and respected 536-bed tertiary care facility, and the Zablocki VA Medical Center, which is recognized as one of the premier VA clinical sites in the U.S. The program features a closed 26-bed Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) at Froedtert and an 18-bed MICU at the VA, providing fellows with vital hands-on experience in various settings 1.
Curriculum and Rotations
Fellows will engage in various ICU rotations, including Surgical/Trauma Intensive Care Unit, Neurointensive Care Unit, Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, and Transplant Intensive Care Unit during their elective time. The curriculum is meticulously structured to ensure extensive procedural training, which includes simulations and bedside supervision for procedures such as central and arterial line placements, bronchoscopy, and the management of mechanical life support systems like ECMO 1.
Didactic Training
The fellows undergo core educational experiences in their initial months, focusing on critical care topics like ventilator management and hemodynamics. A dedicated weekly conference provides an additional layer of protected educational time, where fellows can engage with faculty and guest lecturers on critical care and related topics 1.
Research Opportunities
Throughout their fellowship, participants are encouraged to engage in research activities associated with the Divisions of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine. The fellowship offers protected research blocks during the second and third years, promoting opportunities for abstracts and manuscripts, often culminating in presentations at national conferences 1.
Teaching Responsibilities
The program prides itself on a commitment to education, with fellows expected to take active roles in teaching medical students and residents. The faculty's dedication to mentoring and pedagogical development is a noted asset of the fellowship 1.
Visa Support
The program is welcoming to international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas. J-1 visa candidates need sponsorship through the ECFMG, ensuring a pathway for qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply and train in this crucial medical field 1.
Application and Competitiveness
The fellowship typically selects 1-2 fellows per year and adheres to the ERAS application process. Applicants are expected to provide substantial documentation, including recommendation letters and USMLE or COMLEX scores. The program is known for being highly competitive and values diverse experiences, welcoming DOs and IMG applicants 1.
Special Application Requirements
Additional special application requirements include the necessity for applicants to be no more than three years removed from graduation, and any applicants who have failed the STEP exam do not have a maximum failure policy stated, which reflects a degree of flexibility in the selection process 1.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
28hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,810First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Milwaukee, WI
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee, WI, offers a unique living experience with a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Milwaukee has some areas with higher crime rates, so it's important to research neighborhoods before choosing a place to live.
- Fun Activities: Milwaukee is known for its vibrant arts scene, breweries, cultural events, and beautiful Lake Michigan waterfront.
- Climate: Milwaukee experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snowy winters.
- Races and Population: Milwaukee is a diverse city with a significant African American population. The city also has a growing Hispanic community.
- Education: Milwaukee has several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities for residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Milwaukee is relatively affordable compared to other major cities, making it attractive for residents.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Chicago is about 90 miles away from Milwaukee, which can be reached by a 1.5-2 hour drive. Chicago offers big city amenities and diverse opportunities.
Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural scene, proximity to Lake Michigan.
Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, harsh winters.
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