UMass Chan - Baystate Program
Location:
Springfield, MASpecialty:
Pediatric emergency medicine (Emergency medicine)ACGME Code:
1142431013The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at UMass Chan Medical School - Baystate is a distinguished and ACGME-accredited program designed to prepare fellows to deliver high-quality emergency care for acutely ill and injured children. The program accepts one new fellow each year, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship throughout the fellowship.
Clinical Training Environment
Fellows will train in the Sadowsky Family Pediatric Emergency Department, the region’s only dedicated pediatric emergency facility. This department boasts 18 pediatric beds and a specialized pediatric trauma bay, serving approximately 31,000 pediatric visits annually. This exposure equips fellows with extensive clinical experience across a wide spectrum of pediatric health conditions.
Curriculum Structure
The fellowship offers distinct curricula tailored for graduates of both emergency medicine and pediatric residency programs. The program includes:
- A 2-year fellowship for emergency medicine residents.
- A 3-year fellowship for pediatric residency graduates.
Core components of the curriculum include:
- Weekly didactic conferences, including case-based learning sessions and journal clubs.
- Joint emergency medicine and pediatric emergency medicine conferences to foster collaborative learning.
- Simulated training activities in a state-of-the-art simulation center designed to hone resuscitation skills.
The fellowship also emphasizes research, supported by faculty with extensive experience and a dedicated research nurse.
Supervision and Faculty
Fellows are closely supervised by a distinguished faculty comprising Board-certified specialists in pediatric emergency medicine and related fields, such as toxicology and critical care. Opportunities to collaborate with other pediatric subspecialty faculty further enhance the educational experience.
Competitiveness and Application Process
Applicants aiming for this fellowship must ensure they meet specific prerequisites. This includes completion of an ACGME-accredited residency program and passing the USMLE Step 3 or COMLEX-USA Level 3 examination. The application process is facilitated through ERAS, requiring candidates to submit a personal statement, a curriculum vitae, and three letters of recommendation. Interviews are conducted virtually, utilizing platforms like Zoom and Webex.
Visa Support
The program is open to international medical graduates and will sponsor certain visa types, assisting eligible fellows with the necessary paperwork to work and train in the United States. Specific visa categories supported may include J-1 and H-1B visas.
Salaries and Benefits
Fellows at this program receive remuneration in line with the 75th percentile of national salary averages, complemented by a lower cost of living in western Massachusetts compared to major urban areas. Benefits include:
- Four weeks of vacation per year.
- Health, dental, life, and malpractice insurance.
- Access to the BMC Health Sciences Library and a health club.
- A dedicated fellow lounge designed to support fellowship activities and well-being.
Community and Lifestyle
Western Massachusetts is celebrated for its balance of urban and rural lifestyles, offering diverse recreational activities and a family-friendly environment. The region is known for its vibrant communities and educational institutions, making it an excellent place for both professional development and personal living.
Additional Program Highlights
The fellowship promotes the development of teaching, research, and administrative skills for its fellows, aiming to produce leaders in the field of pediatric emergency medicine. The institution’s commitment to a small program size fosters inclusivity and individualized experiences for each fellow.
Conferences and Research
Weekly and monthly conferences, including journal clubs and research meetings, enhance ongoing education and contribute to a culture of inquiry within the fellowship. This structure aids fellows in building a strong foundation in academic medicine and pediatric emergency care.
Website
Director
Blake Spirko, MDFellowship Director, Pediatric Emergency Medicine Appointed Since July 2003Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
44hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,300First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Springfield, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Springfield, MA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Springfield has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, especially in certain neighborhoods. It's essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
- Fun Activities: Springfield offers a variety of cultural attractions, museums, parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city hosts events like the Big E fair and has a vibrant arts scene.
- Climate: Springfield experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Springfield is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The population is around 155,000 people.
- Education: Springfield has several schools and colleges providing educational opportunities. The city is home to Springfield College and Western New England University.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Springfield is lower than the national average, making it more affordable for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Springfield is located about 1.5 hours away from Boston, MA, and about 3 hours away from New York City, NY by car. Both cities offer a wide range of entertainment, cultural activities, and career opportunities.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse population, access to big cities like Boston and New York.
- Cons: Higher crime rates, cold winters, some areas may lack amenities.
Interview Questions
