Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin is a comprehensive three-year curriculum designed to train specialists in the field of pediatric emergency medicine. This ACGME accredited program aims to develop fellows who can deliver expert emergency care, supervise medical professionals in the field, and conduct significant research to enhance pediatric emergency care practices. Over 25 years, the program has established a robust reputation, attracting candidates nationally, with many graduates transitioning to faculty roles within the institution.

The fellowship offers extensive clinical training at the Children’s Wisconsin Emergency Department and Trauma Center (EDTC), a busy Level 1 trauma center that handles over 70,000 pediatric visits annually. With a recently renovated emergency department opening in Fall 2023, the training facility is well-equipped to provide high-quality and safe care for pediatric patients. The program emphasizes autonomy, aiming to prepare fellows for successful careers in diverse healthcare settings after completion of their training.

Curriculum and Training

The fellowship is structured to provide fellows with hands-on experience through rotations in the EDTC. The first six months focus on developing essential skills under direct supervision, transitioning to a model where fellows gain increasing responsibility in patient care. By the second and third years, fellows assume roles akin to attending physicians, with increasing levels of independent practice supported by on-site faculty supervision.

In addition to clinical training, fellows participate in a comprehensive educational curriculum that includes:

• Formal didactic sessions covering various pediatric emergency medicine topics.
• Patient simulations and procedural workshops aimed at enhancing practical skills and readiness.
• Opportunities for leadership roles during clinical rounds and educational workshops for pediatric residents and medical students.

Weekly protected time is allocated for dedicated educational development, highlighting point-of-care ultrasound, quality improvement, patient safety, and research methodologies.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship places a strong emphasis on research, requiring fellows to complete a scholarly project of publishable quality. Formal training in research design, statistical analysis, and scientific writing is provided, supported by individual mentorship from faculty members. The fellowship encourages collaboration on a variety of research interests, including:

• Pain management and sedation strategies in pediatric patients.
• Trauma and injury prevention methodologies.
• Pediatric healthcare disparities and global health initiatives.

Fellows are encouraged to pursue additional outside scholarship and may engage in prestigious programs, such as the Quality Scholars Program or the Health Equity Scholars Program.

Visa Support and Requirements

The program accepts applications from international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorship for the following types:

• J-1 Visitor Exchange Visa sponsored by ECFMG.
• H-1B Temporary Professional Workers Visa.

To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must have completed a US-accredited residency program and submit a comprehensive application through the ERAS, including three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of USMLE or COMLEX scores.

Competitiveness and Applicant Characteristics

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin is considered highly competitive. Applicants typically possess strong academic qualifications, relevant clinical experience, and a demonstrated interest in pediatric emergency medicine. The fellowship is also described as friendly towards candidates from diverse backgrounds, including DO graduates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs).

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program nurtures an inclusive learning environment and promotes diversity through initiatives like the Department of Pediatrics’ Council on Diversity and Inclusion. This commitment includes training in unconscious bias and comprehensive support for marginalized communities.

Milwaukee itself is marked as an advantageous place to live and train, offering a vibrant city life with accessible healthcare opportunities and community engagement prospects.

Conclusion

Overall, the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin stands out due to its combination of clinical rigor, research opportunities, and supportive faculty, all within a notable training institution dedicated to the advancement of pediatric emergency care.