St Luke's University Hospital Program

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at St. Luke's University Hospital in Bethlehem is designed to provide advanced training for physicians in the management of critically ill surgical patients. The program offers both a one-year fellowship for those coming from surgical backgrounds and a two-year fellowship for emergency medicine graduates, making it a unique option in the realm of surgical critical care training.

This fellowship aims to produce leaders in Trauma and Critical Care, showcasing a strong educational philosophy that integrates clinical practice with research opportunities. A hallmark of the program is its impressive board pass rate; the program boasts a 100% first-attempt board pass rate for both surgical residents and those from emergency medicine backgrounds, illustrating the robust training and preparation provided to fellows 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is meticulously structured to encompass both clinical and didactic learning experiences. Fellows will engage in multidisciplinary training covering diverse specialties within critical care. This includes leading ICU rounding teams and direct involvement in trauma alerts and resuscitations, which allow for real-time management under expert supervision 6.

Educational Activities

Key educational components include extensive hands-on training in advanced critical care procedures such as REBOA, bronchoscopy, and ECMO. An online structured didactic curriculum supplemented by biweekly review sessions ensures that fellows are well-prepared for in-depth examinations and practical applications 7. Furthermore, mentorship is provided by pairing each fellow with an established attending physician, fostering personalized guidance throughout the fellowship.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are strongly encouraged to participate in research initiatives during their training, with faculty mentors available to guide them in scholarly pursuits such as poster presentations, peer reviews, and various publication opportunities. This emphasis on research not only enhances the educational experience but also contributes to the body of knowledge in the field of surgical critical care 8.

Training Sites

The fellowship primarily takes place within St. Luke's University Health Network, renowned for its comprehensive trauma and surgical services. The facility is equipped with the latest technology and resources, providing fellows with a state-of-the-art learning environment.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

To apply for the Surgical Critical Care Fellowship, candidates must submit a complete application packet including a CV, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation by September 1st, with continuous review of applications occurring and interviews scheduled for July and August 2. The program is competitive, attracting a diverse pool of applicants, including those from both allopathic and osteopathic medical schools, as well as international medical graduates. Candidates with a variety of backgrounds are encouraged to apply, reflecting the program's commitment to inclusivity and diversity within its fellowship training.

Visa Support

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at St. Luke's University Hospital is equipped to support international fellows, offering sponsorship for appropriate visa types. Typically, fellows can be sponsored for J-1 or H-1B visas, ensuring that qualified candidates from around the world can participate in this exceptional training program.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows will participate in a variety of clinical rotations that provide exposure to different aspects of critical care. These rotations may include surgical, medical, and neurointensive care, alongside additional elective rotations in palliative medicine, trauma systems, and more. The wide range of clinical experiences is tailored to foster comprehensive knowledge in managing critically ill patients 5.

Wellness and Support Programs

The program emphasizes the well-being of its fellows with wellness programs and support services available to promote mental and emotional health during the rigorous fellowship training. This includes access to counseling services and resources to help manage the demands of training.