Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Child Abuse Pediatrics Fellowship at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a three-year, ACGME-accredited program designed to equip pediatric physicians with advanced training in the field of child abuse pediatrics. The program admits one fellow every three years, providing a future leader in this specialized field with exceptional preparation for careers that may include academic medicine or community-based practices such as Children’s Advocacy Centers. The fellowship is enhanced by the association with the Center for the Protection of Children (CPC), a vital hub for clinical work in child maltreatment integrated into a comprehensive network on child maltreatment solutions.

Penn State Health Children’s Hospital serves as a Level 1 pediatric trauma center for central Pennsylvania, affording fellows a diverse range of clinical experiences through inpatient consultations. The Transforming the Lives of Children (TLC) Research and Treatment Center is also involved, focusing on evidence-based mental health services, forming a core component of the fellowship's research mission. Fellows are guided by board-certified child abuse pediatricians and supported by an experienced clinical and administrative staff throughout their training.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship features an integrated curriculum mirroring daily practices of child abuse pediatricians. During the first year, fellows experience protected research days, continuity in care at the Children’s Resource Center, and multifaceted inpatient consultations. The curriculum is structured to ensure exposure to various specialties, fostering an understanding of injury biomechanics, trauma surgery, and forensic analysis of abuse cases.

Research Component

Research opportunities are significant in the Penn State Child Abuse Pediatrics Fellowship. Beginning with a one-week research course at the Kempe Center, fellows are introduced to research methodologies, fostering development of their scholarly projects. As fellows progress, research time is increased, allowing a greater focus on their specific interests in the area of child maltreatment.

Rotations and Experiences

Fellows participate in clinical rotations that cover a vast array of child maltreatment conditions, integrating aspects of trauma surgery, neurosurgery, and other specialties. This interdisciplinary approach equips fellows with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in child abuse cases. Each rotation includes a blend of inpatient and outpatient experiences with a structured schedule incorporating meaningful research and education.

Unique Program Features

A standout feature of the fellowship is the opportunity for community engagement and education while participating in death scene investigations, forensic assessments, and multidisciplinary team collaborations. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice, family-centered care, and the application of best practices throughout the training period.

Application and Eligibility Requirements

The application process requires submission of materials through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants must have completed an accredited pediatrics residency and must be board-eligible or board-certified in general pediatrics. Eligibility for a Pennsylvania medical license is necessary and applicants must also be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or hold a J-1 visa. The program specifically does not sponsor additional visa types.

While there are no official limits on USMLE or COMLEX attempts, past performance on these examinations may influence application strength. Letters of recommendation from faculty and a personal statement are required as part of the submission. Selected applicants will be invited for interviews to assess fit and discuss specific interests within the realm of child abuse pediatrics.

Competitiveness and Program Environment

The fellowship is considered competitive, attracting a diverse array of applicants from various backgrounds and training experiences. The close-knit environment fosters strong mentorship and professional growth, allowing for tailored educational experiences based on individual career aspirations.

Wellness and Support

Penn State is committed to fostering the well-being of its fellows, providing various wellness initiatives, mental health support, and resources to navigate the challenges associated with rigorous medical training. This holistic approach ensures that residents and fellows can thrive both personally and professionally.