Rhode Island Hospital/Brown University Health Program

The Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics Fellowship Training Program at Brown University Health, affiliated with Hasbro Children’s, is a robust program designed to provide interdisciplinary training in developmental and behavioral pediatrics. The program encompasses clinical, educational, advocacy, and research components, aiming to develop leaders in the field of developmental health care.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship program spans three years and incorporates various aspects of training. In the first year, fellows closely observe faculty conducting clinical care and gradually assume more responsibilities in patient assessments and treatment planning.1 They participate in two biostatistics courses at the Brown School of Public Health, equipping them with essential data management and analytic skills that lead to national presentations and published research.

In the second year, fellows typically engage in the Rhode Island Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (RI LEND), allowing them to collaborate with interdisciplinary trainees and mentors. They have opportunities for specialized rotations in genetics, child neurology, and within various developmental care facilities, providing a wide exposure to clinical practices and patient care.2

The third year focuses on refining clinical skills and responsibilities, with fellows completing their scholarly projects and presenting research findings at national meetings. They also participate in the administrative organization of both fellowship and residency training curricula, enhancing their leadership skills.3

Training Sites

The primary clinical site for the fellowship is Hasbro Children’s, which is noted for its comprehensive pediatric services, including the state’s only pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The Children's Neurodevelopment Center (CNDC) serves as the home for many fellows’ clinical experiences and is a hub for interdisciplinary evaluation and treatment.4 Additional training occurs at Bradley Hospital, a recognized facility for pediatric neuropsychiatric care, and Women and Infants Hospital, which provides specialized care for high-risk newborns and those with developmental issues.

Research Opportunities

The program places significant emphasis on hypothesis-driven research, with fellows expected to conduct a scholarly project during their training. This may involve collaborative research with faculty members from both the program and broader academic community, aimed at advancing knowledge in developmental behavioral pediatrics.5

Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship integrates advocacy training and engagement with community partners, empowering fellows to impact policy and support families effectively. This partnership extends to organizations such as the Rhode Island Parent Information Network and the Autism Project, which enhance the network for fellows and their future careers.6

Visa Support and Application Competitiveness

This fellowship program is open to both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). It provides visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types, accommodating international fellows who meet the program requirements. The program's competitiveness is moderate; it values diverse candidates, including DO graduates and international medical graduates.

Application Requirements

Applicants are expected to apply through the National Residency Matching Program, demonstrating prior training in pediatrics. Specific application requirements include submission of a completed application via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) alongside current CVs, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. No minimum score on the USMLE Step exams is explicitly stated, although it is generally preferred that candidates demonstrate a strong academic foundation in their medical education.7

Benefits

The fellowship offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including malpractice coverage, medical and dental insurance, a fitness and wellness program, and paid family leave. Each fellow receives four weeks of paid vacation annually and an additional week for job interviews.8