Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a one-year, ACGME-accredited program designed to provide advanced training for pediatric anesthesiologists. The program admits two fellows each year and emphasizes various aspects critical to excellence in pediatric anesthesiology, including education, patient safety, and patient care outcomes.

Program Goals and Aims

The program strives to establish itself as a leader in pediatric anesthesiology by focusing on several core aims:

• Advocating for pediatric patients and trainees.
• Fostering innovation and dedication within the field.
• Training fellows to provide independent subspecialty care and become future leaders.
• Promoting professionalism and teamwork.
• Encouraging practices that lead to excellence in clinical and academic performance.

Application Process

All applicants must apply through the SF Match system. The fellowship program welcomes applications from qualified U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and J-1 visa holders. However, it is important to note that the program does not sponsor any additional visa types. To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must meet specific criteria:

• Complete an ACGME-accredited anesthesiology residency.
• Pass the American Board of Anesthesiology basic exam during residency.
• Complete USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3.
• Hold current ACLS certification, with PALS certification strongly encouraged.

Applications require several supporting documents, including a curriculum vitae, ISTE scores, and basic exam results from the American Board of Anesthesiology.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship is structured into clinical experiences that occur over monthly rotations in various departments including:

• Operating rooms
• Pediatric ICU
• Neonatal ICU
• Pain Management
• Pulmonary

The formal didactic components include weekly lectures, departmental grand rounds, and case conferences. Each fellow engages in a scholarly project, which is supported by non-clinical time allocated for completion.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows experience a comprehensive range of clinical rotations over the course of the fellowship, comprising:

• ENT procedures
• General surgery
• Neonatology
• Neurosurgery
• Cardiac anesthesia
• Orthopedics
• Pain management

Research and Teaching

Every fellow is required to complete a scholarly project that may focus on clinical or bench research, as well as quality improvement initiatives. Mentoring for these projects is provided by faculty at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

Fellows also contribute to the educational process by developing and delivering lectures to residents, thereby enhancing their teaching skills and transitioning toward consultant-level responsibilities.

Unique Features of the Program

The fellowship program includes an overseas opportunity where fellows can participate in missions to provide pediatric anesthesiology services in underserved areas. Each mission typically lasts from 10 to 14 days and is accompanied by a faculty member from the program.

Wellness and Support

Wellness resources for fellows include access to employee health programs, professional mental health services, and wellness initiatives designed to assist residents and fellows in maintaining their physical and mental health. The program emphasizes self-care as a crucial skill for medical professionals.

Diversity and Inclusion

Promoting diversity and equity within the program is fundamental, supported by an active Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This office coordinates various programs and groups that aim to foster an inclusive environment.

Benefits and Stipends

Fellows receive comprehensive benefits, including:

• Three weeks of vacation leave
• One week of CME time
• Additional leave for presenting at conferences on a case-by-case basis

The fellowship prepares its participants not only for clinical excellence but also for leadership in the field, positioning them advantageously for future endeavors in pediatric anesthesiology.