UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
PediatricsACGME Code:
3202421107NRMP Program Code:
3050320C0The Pediatric Residency Program at UMass Chan Medical School and UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center (CMC) is dedicated to training future leaders in comprehensive pediatric practice. The program adopts a structured curriculum emphasizing evidence-based primary care, multidisciplinary care, and early individualized autonomy under a supportive faculty. The program has a small-to-medium-sized resident cohort, fostering close-knit relationships among trainers and residents. Graduates are well-equipped to become skilled pediatricians in various settings.1
Curriculum
The curriculum features an extensive range of rotations including inpatient wards, emergency department, pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), and a continuity clinic. Residents gain exposure to diverse patient populations, learning to manage complex pediatric cases. For instance, the program includes rotations through the Duddie Massad Emergency and Trauma Center, which provides Level I trauma care and engages residents in critical care scenarios that enhance both clinical skills and confidence within high-pressure environments.5
Continuity Clinic
A unique hallmark of the residency program is the continuity clinic that pairs residents with pediatricians in community practices. This structured mentorship offers an invaluable link between clinical experience and community health, allowing residents to build their patient panel over three years. Feedback from residents indicates that this aspect of training profoundly impacts their readiness for community-based pediatrics and fosters professional relationships beyond residency.4
Conferences and Didactic Learning
The residency prides itself on a comprehensive conference schedule designed to support continuous learning. Regularly scheduled conferences cover high-yield topics pertinent to pediatric care, while unique opportunities such as morning report, journal clubs, and simulation trainings are integrated into the learning process. Through these formats, residents enhance their case presentation skills and critique medical literature with faculty guidance. This system nurtures both teaching and learning, fostering an environment rich with knowledge sharing.3
Health Equity and Advocacy
The program acknowledges the importance of addressing health equity within pediatrics through advocacy initiatives. Residents engage with the Child Health Equity Center, allowing them to participate in meaningful health equity outreach projects in the community. A longitudinal advocacy curriculum prepares residents to advocate for patients’ rights at local and state levels, addressing pressing issues such as mental health reform and access to care.10
Research and Quality Improvement
Residents are encouraged to be involved in quality improvement projects and clinical research. Initiatives range from enhancing health literacy in underserved populations to improving clinical workflows. Monthly quality improvement conferences provide a platform for residents to present their findings and engage in discussions with their peers and faculty members, thereby fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the pediatric care spectrum.12
Training Sites
The primary training site, UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, features state-of-the-art facilities including the Pediatric Emergency Department and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Residents benefit from working collaboratively with an exceptional array of medical and surgical specialists who contribute diverse perspectives to the care of pediatric patients. UMass is also home to the region's only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and a robust array of elective options in various pediatric subspecialties.8
Wellness and Support
The well-being of residents is prioritized through initiatives that promote work-life balance and mental health resources. The program includes a comprehensive wellness curriculum that blends educational aspects with leisure activities, fostering a supportive environment. Residents participate in wellness events and utilize mentorship programs designed to enhance personal and professional growth throughout their residency.11
Visa Support
The Pediatric Residency Program is supportive of international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorship for qualified candidates. The program typically sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa types, helping to facilitate a seamless transition for international residents wishing to embark on their training in the U.S. medical system.6
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The UMass Pediatric Residency Program is known to be competitive but is also accessible to osteopathic graduates and international medical graduates. Specific application requirements often include a strong academic background, successful completion of step examinations, and a demonstrated commitment to pediatric medicine. The program is receptive to diverse educational paths and values a comprehensive evaluation of candidates beyond test scores, committing to inclusivity in residency training.7
Website
Director
Michael C Fahey, MDProgram Director, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, UMass Chan Medical School Appointed Since July 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,940First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
15 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
47%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
5Match History
3050320C0
2024
8 of 82023
8 of 82022
8 of 82021
8 of 82020
8 of 8Location
Worcester, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA is a diverse city with a lot to offer for residents. Here is an overview of what living in Worcester is like:
Crime Rate and Safety:
Worcester has a mid-range crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. While certain areas may have higher crime rates, overall the city is considered safe to live in.
Fun Activities:
Worcester offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. There are also numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city has a vibrant food scene with diverse dining options.
Climate:
Worcester has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Races and Population:
Worcester is a diverse city with a population of approximately 208,000 residents. The city has a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Education:
Worcester is home to several higher education institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clark University. The city also has a strong public school system for residents with children.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Worcester is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood, but overall, Worcester offers a more affordable living situation compared to nearby Boston.
Proximity to Bigger Cities:
Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, which is about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic. Boston offers additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents looking to explore a bigger city.
Pros and Cons:
One of the pros of living in Worcester is its diverse community and cultural attractions. However, one potential con could be the traffic congestion during peak times, especially when commuting to Boston.
Interview Questions
