Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program
Location:
Milwukee, WISpecialty:
Surgical critical careACGME Code:
4425621010Overview of the Surgical Critical Care Fellowship
The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship offered by the Medical College of Wisconsin is an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accredited program that spans one year. The fellowship offers multiple track options, including a one-year SCC only track, a one-year pediatric SCC track, and a two-year combined SCC and Acute Care Surgery fellowship. A significant portion of the fellowship year is conducted at Froedtert Hospital, which hosts a 21-bed Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) with over 1,700 admissions annually. This environment provides a breadth of experience managing diverse surgical pathologies and proficiency in various bedside procedures such as percutaneous tracheostomies, chest tubes, bronchoscopy, and point-of-care ultrasound.
1Rotations and Clinical Experience
During the fellowship, trainees not only spend time at Froedtert Hospital but also have opportunities to rotate through other critical care settings. The fellows may spend time in the cardiovascular intensive care unit, which offers exposure to mechanical circulatory support and ECMO management. Rotations also include engagements at the Zablocki Veterans Medical Center and the neuro intensive care unit at St. Luke’s Medical Center, a major community hospital. This variety ensures a well-rounded experience in surgical critical care.
1Acute Care Surgery Fellowship Track
The two-year Acute Care Surgery Fellowship begins with a year dedicated to the Surgical Critical Care fellowship and is followed by an ACGME accredited second year, which focuses on trauma and complex emergency general surgery. In the second year, fellows participate in a variety of rotations, including vascular surgery, thoracic surgery, and transplant surgery. A highlight of this program is the opportunity for international experience at a trauma center in Panama City, allowing fellows to gain insights into global surgery practices.
1Educational Structure
The educational component of the fellowship is substantial, with dedicated didactic sessions through 'Fellow Fridays', where fellows gather to engage in educational activities, lectures, and discussions. These sessions are multidisciplinary, featuring faculty from various specialties including critical care, surgery, emergency medicine, and more. Additional informal lectures, known as 'Blood and Coffee', provide a platform for discussions about interesting cases and career development. Monthly journal club meetings allow fellows to review significant research papers relevant to surgical critical care.
1Research Opportunities
The fellowship places a strong emphasis on research. All fellows are encouraged to engage actively in research projects and are expected to start a quality improvement project during their training. The trauma department conducts bi-monthly research meetings where fellows can present and discuss new ideas. Fellows are also supported in attending a national trauma or critical care conference each year.
1Visa Support and Application Requirements
The program provides visa support for International Medical Graduates (IMGs), typically sponsoring J-1 visas, which are ideal for fellows seeking training in the United States. The selection process is competitive, welcoming applications from both DO and IMG candidates, as the program aims for a diverse and skilled cohort. Specific application requirements may include considerations such as year of graduation from medical school and limitations on the number of failed STEP examinations.
1Benefits and Employment
Fellows in the Surgical Critical Care fellowship are employed by the Medical College of Wisconsin and Affiliated Hospitals (MCWAH), which provides a comprehensive benefits package. The structure also includes a faculty appointment for the second-year Acute Care Surgery fellows, which entails increased levels of responsibility and opportunities for shaping the trauma program's direction.
1Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$75,530First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
6.7XResidents 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
- Crime Rate and Safety:
Milwaukee has areas with varying crime rates. Certain neighborhoods, particularly in the downtown area and some suburbs, are considered safer, while others may experience higher crime rates. It's advisable to stay informed about specific areas and practice common safety precautions.
- Fun Activities:
The city offers a range of activities, including festivals, concerts, and cultural events. Popular attractions include the Milwaukee Art Museum, Harley-Davidson Museum, and the Milwaukee County Zoo. There are also numerous parks and recreational areas for outdoor activities, like fishing and kayaking on Lake Michigan.
- Climate:
Milwaukee experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid, with temperatures typically in the 70s to 80s (°F). Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures and beautiful foliage.
- Race and Population:
The population of Milwaukee is diverse, comprising various ethnic groups. The city has a significant African American community, along with Hispanic, Caucasian, and Asian populations. This diversity contributes to the city’s cultural richness and community activities.
- Education:
Milwaukee is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate studies. The Milwaukee Public Schools system serves the local K-12 population, with a variety of educational options, including charter schools and magnet schools.
- Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Milwaukee is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for many residents. Housing costs are particularly affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas like Chicago or New York City.
- Bigger Cities Nearby:
Chicago, IL, is approximately 90 miles south of Milwaukee and is accessible by car in about 1.5 to 2 hours. Chicago offers a bustling urban environment, with an extensive job market, cultural attractions, and dining options. Other notable cities include Madison, WI, which is about 80 miles west (around 1.5 hours drive), known for its vibrant college town atmosphere and political significance.
Pros:
- Lower cost of living compared to many large cities.
- Diverse cultural and recreational activities.
- Access to beautiful outdoor spaces, including Lake Michigan.
Cons:
- Variable crime rates in different neighborhoods, requiring cautious consideration.
- Cold winters may not be appealing to everyone.
- Public transportation options can be limited compared to larger cities.
Interview Questions
