St Barnabas Hospital Program

Overview of the Pediatrics Residency Program at SBH Health System

The Pediatrics Residency Program at SBH Health System offers a comprehensive and hands-on training experience designed to prepare residents for a fulfilling career in pediatric medicine. The program has seen significant growth since its inception in 1999, evolving from a small department with 11 pediatricians to a robust faculty of over 50 pediatric specialists. This development is indicative of a commitment to providing high-quality healthcare to children and their families.

The Pediatrics Department encompasses multiple divisions, including Inpatient Pediatrics, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Neonatology, and Ambulatory Care, ensuring an all-encompassing residency experience that addresses a diverse range of pediatric health issues.

Core Training Features

The Pediatric Residency at SBH Health System is structured over three years, emphasizing comprehensive training across various pediatric domains. The first year (PL-1) focuses on providing residents with essential insights into both inpatient and outpatient care, including exposure to common pediatric illnesses, sick newborn care, and clinical responsibilities in the Pediatric Ambulatory Group Practice, where residents follow their own patients.

In the second year (PL-2), residents engage in advanced rotations that shift their focus toward supervisory roles, enhancing their managerial capabilities across inpatient services and emergency settings. The third year (PL-3) emphasizes independence and teaching, where senior residents lead teams and finalize their research projects.

Rotation Structure

The residency program is structured into 4-week blocks, with a total of 13 blocks per year, including a vacation period. Notable rotations across the three years include:

• PL-1: General Pediatric Inpatient Service, Pediatric Emergency Department, Well Baby Nursery, Allergy/Immunology, Electives.
• PL-2: Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care, Developmental/Behavioral/Neurology, Pediatric Emergency Department.
• PL-3: General Pediatric Inpatient Service, Pediatric Emergency Department, Community Medicine, electives, and a focus on outpatient clinical practices.

Research Opportunities

The program is strongly committed to fostering clinical research in pediatric health. Residents participate in monthly research seminars and journal clubs, which promote an environment of inquiry and scholarship. Mentoring by faculty guides residents in developing their research projects, leading to presentations at regional and national conferences.

Resident Benefits and Support

SBH Health System provides a competitive benefits package for residents that includes health and dental insurance, professional liability coverage, and academic support. The program also recognizes the importance of wellness, offering resources aimed at maintaining residents' physical and mental health throughout their training.

Application Process

Applicants for the PL-1 categorical internship position are required to apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program has specific requirements, including a limit on failed USMLE attempts and the possession of an ECFMG certificate for international medical graduates (IMGs).

Positions at PL-2 or PL-3 levels may be available for qualified applicants, and they must submit additional documents, such as a Dean's letter, letters of recommendation, and transcripts.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for qualified international medical graduates. Sponsorship may include J-1 visas and H-1B visas depending on the candidate's circumstances and program policies.

Competitiveness

The Pediatrics Residency Program at SBH Health System is recognized as competitive; however, it maintains a welcoming environment for DOs and IMGs, reflecting a commitment to diversity and inclusion within the medical community.