Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University/TJUH Program
Location:
Philadelphia, PASpecialty:
Pain medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5304104041Program Overview
The Pain Medicine Fellowship at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University focuses on multidisciplinary education in the treatment and management of patients suffering from pain-related conditions. This program is designed to provide fellows with comprehensive training that combines clinical practice, didactic learning, and research opportunities within a supportive and collaborative environment.
Fellows participate in a 12-month curriculum that is structured to offer a broad exposure to various aspects of pain management, including interventional techniques, pharmacology, physical therapy, and complementary therapies. The program emphasizes a patient-centered approach, focusing on the unique needs of individuals dealing with chronic pain syndromes.
Curriculum
The Pain Medicine fellowship curriculum is divided into several core components:
- Clinical Rotations: Fellows rotate through various clinics and specialties, gaining hands-on experience in interventional procedures, inpatient consults, and multidisciplinary rounds.
- Didactic Education: Weekly teaching sessions, seminars, and lectures are held to ensure fellows acquire the necessary theoretical knowledge and evidence-based practices. Topics covered include pain physiology, evaluation techniques, and the latest advancements in pain management.
- Research Opportunities: Fellows are encouraged to engage in research projects that contribute to the field of pain medicine, with opportunities for presentations at regional and national conferences.
Training Sites
The fellowship utilizes various training sites, primarily the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and affiliated outpatient facilities. These locations provide fellows with diverse patient populations and complex clinical cases, enhancing their training experience. The multidisciplinary team includes pain management specialists, anesthesiologists, neurologists, psychiatrists, and physical therapists, fostering an integrated approach to pain treatment.
Unique Aspects of the Program
- Multidisciplinary Approach: The program is distinctive in its emphasis on a collaborative model involving multiple healthcare disciplines working together to optimize patient care.
- Research Focus: Significant emphasis is placed on scholarly activity, with mandatory participation in research that may lead to publications or presentations.
- Wellness Initiatives: Recognizing the high-stress nature of pain management, the fellowship integrates wellness programs to support the mental health and work-life balance of its fellows.
Visa Support
The program is supportive of international medical graduates and sponsors both H-1B and J-1 visas for eligible candidates. This allows fellows from various backgrounds to apply without facing visa-related barriers.
Competitiveness
The Pain Medicine Fellowship is regarded as highly competitive, attracting applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, including both MD and DO graduates. The program is committed to diversity and is friendly towards international medical graduates, enhancing the richness of the educational experience.
Application Requirements
Successful applicants typically hold an MD or DO degree and must complete an ACGME-accredited residency in anesthesiology, neurology, psychiatry, or physical medicine and rehabilitation. Application materials include:
- Completed ERAS application
- Personal statement reflecting interest in Pain Medicine
- Three letters of recommendation, including one from the current residency program director
- USMLE or COMLEX scores
- Curriculum vitae
Preference is given to candidates who have recent clinical experience and have graduated from their residency programs within the last five years.
Research Activity
Research is an integral part of the Pain Medicine Fellowship, where fellows engage in projects that contribute to the understanding and treatment of pain disorders. Fellows are expected to present their original research findings at conferences or through publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Website
Director
Andrew T Ng, MDProgram Director, Pain Medicine Fellowship, Clinical Assistant Professor Appointed Since January 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$82,896First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
5.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.
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