Residency Advisor

Tower Health Program

Location:

Phildelphia, PA

Specialty:

Pediatric infectious diseases

ACGME Code:

3354131048
YOG 2Fellowship
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The program offers a comprehensive three-year fellowship training in Pediatric Infectious Diseases, accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). It is designed to provide fellows with an in-depth understanding of infectious diseases in pediatric populations while preparing them for a future in academic and clinical settings. The program is facilitated by three full-time, board-certified pediatric infectious diseases faculty and a dedicated team, including a PhD-level director of microbiology and virology and a full-time ID pharmacist.

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Mission Statement

The mission of the program is to provide optimal care and prevention for infectious diseases among a diverse and socioeconomically challenged population located in North Philadelphia. The program recognizes the critical roles pediatric infectious disease specialists play in clinical healthcare, research, and public health. It aims to foster a spirit of inquiry, professional development, and contributions to the field of infectious diseases among its fellows.

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Clinical Education

Fellows engage in infectious diseases consultative care at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, allowing them to gain extensive subspecialty education. The clinical experience includes exposure to common infectious diseases, as well as complex and unusual infections, especially those associated with patients in special programs such as Oncology, Cardiology, and Pulmonology. The program has robust diagnostic laboratories for microbiology and virology, guided by doctorate-level leadership that integrates clinical, educational, and research activities.

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Training Structure

In this program, fellows will spend substantial clinical time on both the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Inpatient Consult service and the Pediatric Infectious Disease Outpatient clinic. Furthermore, fellows will be involved in the hospital’s Antimicrobial Stewardship and Infection Prevention Programs, ensuring a well-rounded training experience.

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Research and Leadership Education

The program places a strong emphasis on research, which is tailored to each fellow’s career aspirations and begins in the first year. Mentorship from faculty is a cornerstone of the program, where experienced faculty guide fellows in various investigative domains, including but not limited to molecular diagnostics, antimicrobial stewardship, epidemiology, and public health research. There are additional resources available through Drexel University for those seeking further research opportunities and graduate studies.

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Application Process

Applications for the program must be submitted through ERAS. After a thorough review of the application and letters of recommendation, selected candidates will be invited for an interview.

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Eligibility Requirements

Candidates are required to have completed an ACGME-accredited Pediatric Residency and be eligible for the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) certifying examination in Pediatrics. Additionally, successful completion of all three steps of the USMLE is mandatory, along with submission of three letters of recommendation. For foreign medical graduates, possession of a valid ECFMG certificate is required. The program can provide sponsorship for U.S. J-1 or H-1B Visas, and applicants must either be U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or hold valid visas.

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Competitiveness

The program is considered highly competitive, attracting a diverse range of applicants. Being friendly towards candidates from both DO and IMG backgrounds, it emphasizes the importance of a strong academic and clinical foundation, as well as research interests relevant to the field.

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Faculty

The program boasts a distinguished faculty including experts in pediatrics and infectious diseases. Faculty members are dedicated to providing high-quality education and mentorship to fellows, helping them navigate the complexities of clinical care and research in pediatric infectious diseases.

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Website

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Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Director

Janet S Chen, MDPediatric ID Fellowship Program Director; Attending Physician in Pediatric Infectious Diseases, HIV, and Immunology Appointed Since September 2020
janet.chen@towerhealth.org

Program

Program Size

1, 1 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since October 1998

Composition

-

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

50hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

16hrs

First Year Salary:

$69,427

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

1.5X

Residents career path:

-

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

2

Location

Philadelphia, PA

Population
-
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
-

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Philadelphia, PA: An Overview

Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania, offers a diverse living environment for residents enrolled in medical residency programs. Below are various aspects to consider:

  • Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has a reputation for crime, with varying rates depending on the neighborhood. While some areas are quite safe, it's essential to research specific neighborhoods to ensure a secure living environment.
  • Fun Activities: Philadelphia is rich in history and culture. Residents can explore numerous museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation, enjoy performances at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, and visit iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The city is also known for its vibrant food scene, featuring everything from cheesesteaks to fine dining.
  • Climate: Philadelphia experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful foliage.
  • Race and Population: Philadelphia has a diverse demographic with a population of over 1.5 million. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, with significant African American, Hispanic, and Asian communities, contributing to a vibrant cultural landscape.
  • Education: The city is home to numerous esteemed educational institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University. This presence fosters an academic environment with many opportunities for collaboration and networking.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is generally lower than other major metropolitan areas like New York City or San Francisco, though it can vary widely by neighborhood. Housing prices can be more affordable compared to other large cities, but expenses such as transportation and groceries should be considered.
  • Nearby Cities: Philadelphia is located about 1.5 hours from New York City and approximately 2 hours from Washington, D.C. Both cities offer a wealth of additional activities, cultural experiences, and professional opportunities.
Pros and Cons of Living in Philadelphia:
  • Pros:
    • Rich historical and cultural experiences.
    • Access to numerous educational and professional resources.
    • Diverse culinary scene.
    • Lower cost of living compared to other major cities.
  • Cons:
    • Higher crime rates in certain neighborhoods.
    • Public transportation can be inconsistent.
    • Weather can be extreme at times (hot summers, cold winters).

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