Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program
Location:
Wauwatosa, WISpecialty:
Pain medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5305604042The Pain Medicine Fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin is a one-year program designed for physicians aiming to specialize in managing acute, chronic, and cancer pain. This fellowship aims to produce proficient physicians who are skilled in various pain management techniques across a diverse patient population.
Curriculum Overview
Fellows in this program engage in comprehensive training that encompasses a wide array of clinical, procedural, and research experiences. The curriculum is structured around several key components:
Clinical Rotations
Fellows spend approximately half of their training year on rotations at multiple sites, ensuring a broad exposure to different pain management modalities:
- Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW): The primary clinical base for fellows, focusing on multidisciplinary pain management that includes psychological and physical therapy services.
- Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center: Renowned for its interventional pain approaches, this rotation includes exposure to advanced ultrasound techniques and an array of unique pain management procedures.
- Froedtert Hospital: Fellows gain in-depth experience with both inpatient pain management for complex cases and anesthesia services.
- Children's Wisconsin: This site offers a collaboration with one of the nation's leading Pediatric Pain programs, allowing fellows to participate in pediatric pain management clinics.
Didactic Education
The educational component of the fellowship includes:
- Weekly didactic sessions that are conduced virtually during the clinical workday, along with monthly seminars that focus on advanced topics and board preparation.
- Academic Half Days dedicated to ongoing educational development and peer discussions, alleviating clinical duties during this time.
- Multidisciplinary lectures and journal clubs that encourage critical analysis of current literature and developments in pain management.
Research Opportunities
Fellows are expected to engage in scholarly work, with guidance from faculty advisors on projects that may encompass quality improvement, case reports, or research. Protected time is allocated for these activities, and there is funding available for attending national conferences should their work be accepted for presentation.
Special Features of the Program
This fellowship accepts candidates from diverse core disciplines including Anesthesiology, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Neurology, and Psychiatry. This multidisciplinary foundation encourages a holistic approach to pain management education.
Simulation Training
Fellows take part in simulation sessions held at top-tier facilities, focusing on managing rare complications that may arise in interventional pain management.
Mentorship and Care Development
Each fellow will be assigned a faculty mentor dedicated to their career development and clinical training, fostering an environment of growth and excellence.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The Pain Medicine Fellowship program is categorically open to both domestic and international candidates, with visa support available for qualified applicants. The program is recognized as being competitive yet accessible to international medical graduates (IMGs) and DO candidates.
Application Requirements and Process
Applications for the Pain Medicine Fellowship are managed through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). Essential documentation required with the application includes:
- Personal Statement
- Curriculum Vitae
- Proof of medical school completion including transcripts and diplomas
- Letters of recommendation
- USMLE scores (and COMLEX if necessary)
- Proof of ECFMG certification for international applicants
All candidates must hold an unrestricted Wisconsin medical license and must have passed the USMLE Step 3 examination before commencing their fellowship. Notably, the program accommodates off-cycle fellowship positions based on specific circumstances.
Interviews for the fellowship usually take place between April and July, where candidates may be evaluated on their fit for the rigorous training offered at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,810First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Wauwatosa, WI
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Wauwatosa, WI
- Crime Rate and Safety: Wauwatosa is generally considered a safe community. The crime rate is lower than the national average, with most incidents being property-related. Residents often report feeling secure, particularly in residential neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Wauwatosa offers a variety of recreational activities. You can explore the picturesque parks, such as Hoyt Park and the Milwaukee County Zoo. The city also has cultural attractions, including the Wauwatosa Historical Society and numerous local restaurants and cafes. Shopping options include the Mayfair Mall, which hosts various retail stores and dining establishments.
- Climate: Wauwatosa experiences a humid continental climate. Winters can be cold and snowy, typically ranging from December through March, with temperatures often falling below freezing. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). The transition seasons of spring and fall are generally mild and enjoyable.
- Race and Population: The population of Wauwatosa is approximately 48,000 residents, with a diverse demographic makeup. The community includes a mix of ethnicities and races, contributing to a vibrant community culture.
- Education: Wauwatosa is served by a well-regarded school district that includes multiple elementary schools, a middle school, and two high schools. Additionally, the area is in proximity to higher education institutions, including the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Milwaukee Area Technical College.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Wauwatosa is moderate compared to larger U.S. cities. Housing costs are relatively affordable, though this can vary based on specific neighborhoods. Other living expenses, such as groceries and transportation, are in line with national averages.
- Nearby Cities: Wauwatosa is located approximately 6 miles west of Milwaukee, which can be reached in about a 15-20 minute drive. Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, offers a bustling urban environment with a variety of activities, including professional sports, cultural festivals, and an active nightlife.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Safe and family-friendly environment
- Variety of recreational and cultural activities
- Close proximity to Milwaukee's amenities
- Strong educational system
- Cons:
- Cold winters may be challenging for some
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Public transport options are limited
Interview Questions
