Medical University of South Carolina Program

The Regional Anesthesia and Acute Pain Medicine Fellowship at the Medical University of South Carolina is a comprehensive 12-month program that is ACGME accredited. The fellowship is designed to enhance the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills necessary for the safe and effective administration of regional anesthesiology and acute pain management. As fellows progress through the program, they will take on an integral role within a collaborative team responsible for the selection of cases and the proper administration of anesthetic blocks to improve patients' recovery processes.1

Throughout the program, fellows are expected to develop a strong foundation in various critical skills and knowledge areas, including local anesthetics, neuraxial and systemic opioids, and nerve localization techniques. The fellows will receive exposure to an extensive diversity of cases, from basic to highly complex surgical scenarios.1

Training Environment

The training environment at MUSC is robust, with fellows performing over 10,000 blocks annually across a high volume of cases. Aspiring professionals will learn at the University Hospital, which functions as a Level 1 Trauma Center and provides a wide array of surgical specialties, including Orthopedics, Neurosurgery, and Urology, among others. Furthermore, the fellows will gain experience at various MUSC facilities such as the Ashley River Tower and the Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital.1

Research Opportunities

A significant component of the fellowship is research participation. Fellows will collaborate with faculty members who are experienced in producing original research and will be encouraged to contribute to academic literature. Mentorship is a pivotal part of the research process, allowing fellows to gain invaluable guidance when producing research proposals, conducting clinical studies, and potentially co-authoring publications.1

Faculty and Resources

The program boasts a faculty comprised of highly regarded leaders recognized in the anesthesiology field. Faculty members possess extensive academic backgrounds with numerous publications and national conference presentations. This strong leadership ensures that fellows receive a rigorous educational experience and partake in knowledge sharing with experienced professionals.1

Unique Aspects

The fellowship is supported by a collaborative and motivated team, eager to impart their updated knowledge of regional anesthetic techniques to fellows. This collective effort creates a dynamic learning environment that promotes continuous improvement and innovation in practice methods.1

Application Process and Requirements

To apply for the fellowship, interested candidates must use the SF Match application platform. Although specific admission metrics are not detailed, prospective fellows should strive to meet high academic standards and demonstrate competencies related to regional anesthesia and acute pain medicine. Internally, moonlighting opportunities exist, allowing fellows to enhance their training experience as long as it does not interfere with educational commitments.1

Competitiveness and Visa Support

The program is competitive, welcoming both domestic and international medical graduates, including DO students and IMG applicants. For international applicants, the program sponsors J-1 visa types and may consider other visa options, ensuring a pathway for qualified candidates. This supportive environment is essential for maximizing the potential for fellows to thrive in their respective training experiences.1