SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Program
Location:
St Louis, MOSpecialty:
Neonatal-perinatal medicineACGME Code:
3292821036The SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Program in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine is a prestigious fellowship program designed to provide advanced training in the management of critically ill newborns and their families. This program, which is an integral part of the graduate medical education offered at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine, reflects a commitment to excellence in pediatric care and education.
As of July 1, 2023, SSM Health has taken the reins as the sponsor of the residency program associated with the School of Medicine, marking a significant evolution in the program's historical development. This partnership aims to bolster health education and clinical practice, with a focus on enhancing healthcare delivery in the St. Louis community and beyond 1.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum of the Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine fellowship is designed to balance clinical training with academic rigor. Fellows engage in comprehensive clinical rotations that cover various aspects of neonatal care, including but not limited to high-risk deliveries, neonatal intensive care, and specialized care for premature and critically ill infants. The didactic component includes regular lectures, case discussions, and opportunities for research presentations, geared towards ensuring fellows are well-versed in the latest advancements in neonatal medicine.
Clinical Rotations
Fellows in the program will participate in rotations at leading teaching hospitals affiliated with the SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine. These rotations provide exposure to a breadth of clinical experiences, enabling fellows to engage with diverse patient populations and complex medical cases. The multidisciplinary approach emphasizes collaboration with pediatric subspecialists, further enriching the learning environment and clinical competence.
Research Opportunities
There is a strong emphasis on research within the fellowship program. Fellows are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities, including clinical studies, quality improvement projects, and translational research. The program supports fellows in presenting their findings at national conferences and publishing in leading medical journals, which fosters academic growth and contributes to advancing the field of neonatal-perinatal medicine 2.
Unique Features of the Program
The SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine fellowship program stands out for its strong support of international medical graduates. It requires ECFMG certification for applicants from international backgrounds, ensuring that all candidates meet minimum eligibility standards for residency and fellowship positions in the United States. The program has a strong track record of being DO and IMG friendly, enhancing its inclusivity and appeal to a wider audience of medical graduates.
Moreover, the program is equipped to sponsor both J1 visas and H1B training visas for qualified applicants, thus facilitating the enrollment of talented international fellows. The flexibility in visa sponsorship, however, is subject to specific program discretion and can vary 1.
Competitiveness and Application Process
The Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine fellowship is considered highly competitive due to the program's reputation for excellence and the quality of training offered. Candidates are evaluated on their academic performance, clinical experiences, and potential for future contributions to pediatric medicine. Special application requirements may include the maximum allowable failed STEP exams and the year of graduation, which are taken into consideration. Applicants are advised to carefully review these criteria as part of the application process.
The fellowship application process generally requires participation through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and adherence to the standards set by the National Resident Matching Program. This structured approach ensures that the selection process is fair and comprehensive, giving all candidates an equitable opportunity to gain entry into the program 2.
Website
Director
Rebecca Y Petersen, MD, MACMAssociate Professor of Pediatrics, Fellowship Director Appointed Since July 2019Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$69,342First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
St. Louis, MO
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in St. Louis, MO
St. Louis is a diverse city offering a mix of urban and suburban living. Here is an overview of different aspects of living in St. Louis:
- Crime Rate and Safety: St. Louis has areas with varying crime rates, so it's important to research specific neighborhoods. Overall, the city has made improvements in safety but like any big city, precautions are still necessary.
- Fun Activities: St. Louis is known for its Gateway Arch, Forest Park, diverse food scene, museums, and sports teams like the Cardinals and Blues. There are also many parks and outdoor recreational activities available.
- Climate: St. Louis experiences all four seasons with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are often mild and pleasant.
- Races and Population: St. Louis has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural scene.
- Education: St. Louis is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for continuing education and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in St. Louis is lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: St. Louis is approximately a 4-hour drive from Chicago, IL, and a 5-hour drive from Kansas City, MO. Both cities offer additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options.
Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural experiences, plenty of outdoor activities.
Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, winters can be cold.
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