Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is designed to train physicians in the specialized field of neonatology, preparing them to become leaders in clinical care, research, and education. The fellowship is focused on delivering comprehensive training in a state-of-the-art Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) located in the largest freestanding children’s hospital in Wisconsin. The program aims to produce highly competent neonatologists equipped to handle the complexities of critically ill newborns.

Program Overview

The fellowship encompasses a three-year training program with a rigorous curriculum that balances hands-on clinical experience with scholarly research opportunities. The fellows provide care in a well-staffed NICU renowned for its “fellow-run” unit model

1. In terms of procedural training, first-year fellows have priority for procedures, allowing them to grow their competencies in essential skills early in their training.

Curriculum and Clinical Experience

The foundation of the fellowship lies in a robust clinical experience in the NICU, which houses 71 beds in a newly renovated facility featuring all private rooms. The average daily census is approximately 50-60 patients, organized into three care teams, allowing fellows to develop leadership and teaching skills as they supervise residents and nurse practitioners during rounds.

In addition to NICU responsibilities, the fellowship includes rotations in various other critical areas, such as:

• Newborn Nursery Rotation: First-year fellows manage the resident team.
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic: Exposure to prenatal consultations during the second year.
• Cardiac ICU Rotations: Post-operative management experience during the third year.

This comprehensive clinical exposure ensures fellows become adept at managing a broad spectrum of neonatal conditions, including high-risk deliveries and the surgical needs of critically ill neonates.

Research Opportunities

MCW and Children’s Wisconsin boast a strong tradition of research, with substantial support in areas such as pulmonary hypertension, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and neonatal neurocritical care. Each fellow selects a research mentor and project early in their training, enabling tailored scholarly activity that aligns with individual interests and career goals. The program encourages fellows to present their work at national and international conferences, facilitating continued engagement in cutting-edge research throughout their careers.

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Fellow research endeavors have resulted in numerous publications in prestigious journals, highlighting the supportive and collaborative environment provided by the faculty. Furthermore, fellows receive guidance on grant writing and publishing processes, ensuring they are prepared for successful academic careers.

Mentorship and Faculty Support

Mentorship is an essential aspect of the fellowship, with designated faculty overseeing the progress of fellows throughout their training. Each fellow is required to submit manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and is encouraged to present their research findings regularly.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

MCW strives to cultivate a diverse and inclusive atmosphere for all participants in the fellowship. The program actively confronts biases and promotes health equity through various initiatives, enhancing the learning environment for all fellows.

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Application and Competitiveness

Applicants to the fellowship must meet specific requirements, including completion of an accredited residency program and submission of comprehensive application materials through the appropriate channels. The program accepts candidates with various educational backgrounds, including DOs and international medical graduates, making it relatively inclusive. Furthermore, MCW supports visa sponsorship for both J-1 (Visitor Exchange Visa) and H-1B (Temporary Professional Worker) types, catering to a diverse candidate pool.

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Living in Milwaukee

Milwaukee serves as a vibrant and family-friendly environment, allowing fellows to enjoy a work-life balance alongside their rigorous training. The city offers various cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and a welcoming community, making it an excellent place for fellows to call home during their training.

Conclusion

The Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin is designed for those who aspire to excel in neonatology through comprehensive clinical education and research opportunities. With a commitment to mentorship and diversity, alongside a robust curriculum, this fellowship prepares future neonatologists to thrive competitively in their careers.