Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University/Nemours Children's Health, Wilmington Program

The Pediatrics Residency Program at Nemours Children's Hospital in Delaware is an integrated training initiative in association with the Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University. This program aims to develop residents into competent pediatricians through a comprehensive curriculum and diverse clinical experiences.

Program Overview

The residency program operates across prominent teaching hospitals, primarily at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware, while also collaborating with Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Christiana Hospital. This multi-institutional approach allows residents to gain a broad spectrum of pediatric care exposure, enhancing their learning further with clinically-rich environments. With emphasis on community-connected medical training, the program fosters a family-like atmosphere among residents and staff, emphasizing support and inclusiveness during every step of the learning journey 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum integrates a unique “X+Y” model divided into 6 weeks of inpatient rotations followed by a 2-week outpatient medicine block. The inpatient rotations cover various pediatric specialties including emergency medicine, inpatient pediatrics, and neonatal ICU while the outpatient component focuses on continuity clinics where residents manage primary care patients 2. Specific rotations include Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Department, Hematology/Oncology, and Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, allowing residents to encounter both common and complex cases.

Clinical Exposure

Within the program, residents will experience working in different clinical settings—ranging from general pediatrics to subspecialty care. For example, the Pediatric Emergency Department at Nemours logs 50,000 visits annually, giving residents comprehensive exposure to acute pediatric cases under faculty supervision 2.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)

The Pediatrics Residency Program is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aspiring to reflect the communities it serves. The program engages in advocacy and houses an active DEI committee ensuring the training environment is inclusive and culturally competent. Activities such as community engagement, cultural observances, and mentorship opportunities underscore the program's commitment to creating a supportive framework for all its residents 3.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Applicants to the program must submit an ERAS application along with a personal statement, board scores, three letters of recommendation, a dean’s letter, and transcripts. Notably, a letter from the chairman is not required 4. Given the significant institutional backing and the program's reputation, it tends to be highly competitive, appealing to a diverse applicant pool including MDs and DOs, with specific encouragement for underrepresented groups in medicine.

Resident Well-Being

Recognizing the importance of resident wellness, the program has implemented multiple initiatives aimed at fostering personal resilience and mental health. A structured mentorship system, wellness activities, and regular check-ins ensure that residents have access to the necessary support systems. Creativity and relaxation are integrated into the schedule via wellness Fridays and field days, enhancing the overall residency experience 5.

Research and Education Focus

The pediatrics residency emphasizes scholarly activities, encouraging residents to partake in research projects throughout their training, bolstered by funding from the institutional network. Special track programs are available focusing on Global Health and Health Equity, catering to residents interested in advocacy and service in underserved populations 6.

Visa Sponsorship

The program does provide visa support for international medical graduates. Specific visa types that can be sponsored typically include J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing for a compliant participation in the residency training program.

Clinical Training Sites

Training primarily occurs at Nemours Children’s Hospital, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centered approach to pediatric healthcare. Additional training occurs at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Christiana Care, both of which contribute to a well-rounded clinical education that prepares residents for diverse future paths in pediatric medicine.