Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at Lubbock Program

The Pediatric Hospital Medicine Fellowship at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock is designed to cultivate the next generation of pediatric hospitalists. Established in 2017, the program is one of the pioneering ACGME-accredited Pediatric Hospital Medicine (PHM) fellowship programs in the nation. The program is dedicated to training pediatric hospitalists who are capable of thriving in both academic and community hospital environments, focusing significantly on education and clinical excellence. Notably, the fellowship boasts a 100% pass rate on the PHM board examination, reflecting the quality of education and training provided.

The fellowship faculty encompasses a diverse and talented group of professionals, including leaders such as the Chief Medical Officer of the Children’s Hospital and the Vice Dean of the Covenant campus. This setting promotes a rich learning environment where fellows engage with faculty who have extensive experience in medical education, quality improvement, and pediatric care.

Clinical Training and Rotations

The program offers robust clinical training primarily at Covenant Children’s Hospital, which is a freestanding 144-bed facility dedicated to children's health. Annually, the hospital manages approximately 3000 pediatric discharges, providing a comprehensive clinical exposure for fellows. The hospitalist service admits most medical subspecialties and collaborates with surgical teams for co-management of cases. Additionally, fellows have opportunities to rotate at University Medical Center and TrustPoint Hospital, enriching their clinical experience.

The curriculum is designed to include one-third of fellowship time devoted to core clinical rotations, which encompass hospitalist service, medically complex care, surgical co-management, and community hospital service. Another third focuses on scholarship and quality improvement activities, while the remaining third allows for an individualized curriculum tailored to the fellow's career goals and interests.

Fellowship Curriculum and Educational Experience

The fellowship curriculum adheres to nationally recognized standards, ensuring a comprehensive educational trajectory. Fellows participate in a variety of enriching academic activities, including:

• Fellows’ Conferences: Weekly educational conferences including Journal Clubs and Case Presentations aimed at enhancing fellows' clinical acumen and teaching capabilities.
• Board Review Sessions: Monthly sessions specifically designed to prepare fellows for the PHM Board exam.
• Pediatric Grand Rounds: These sessions cover an array of topics relevant to pediatric care and health services.
• Safety Huddles: Regular participation in hospital safety discussions, promoting a culture of safety within clinical practices.

Furthermore, fellows are encouraged to take on teaching roles, leading medical students and residents in practical scenarios and academic discussions, thereby fostering their leadership skills.

Benefits and Support

The fellowship provides a competitive remuneration package, with a salary structure currently set at approximately $70,283 for the first year and $72,370 for the second year of training (2024-2025 academic year). Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance fully covered for fellows, along with robust life and disability insurance options. Fellowships also include generous vacation policies that can be taken during elective and individualized curriculum blocks.

Furthermore, the program aims to support fellows who wish to pursue additional academic opportunities by offering scheduling flexibility for higher education pursuits in fields such as public health, healthcare administration, and business administration.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program is committed to inclusivity and supports visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs). The types of visas that may be supported include J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the participation of diverse fellow candidates in this esteemed program.

Moreover, the fellowship is competitive, with a strong preference for applicants who demonstrate a commitment to academic medicine and have a solid clinical background. Specific application requirements may include a maximum number of previously failed STEP exams and criteria related to the graduation year from medical school, ensuring that candidates are well-prepared for the rigors of the fellowship.