University of Alabama Medical Center Program

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has been active for over 30 years, establishing itself as a distinguished training center. This program is hosted at the only Level 1 pediatric trauma center in Alabama and ranks as the fifth busiest pediatric emergency department in the United States. UAB serves as Alabama’s sole freestanding children’s hospital and a major referral center, enabling an unparalleled training environment.

The program accepts three to four fellows annually for a comprehensive three-year curriculum tailored to develop skills essential for independent practice in pediatric emergency medicine. A two-year curriculum option is available for graduates of emergency medicine residencies, providing flexibility in training pathways 1.

Program Curriculum and Training Experience

The curriculum is meticulously designed to ensure a robust training experience, focusing on clinical experiences, research opportunities, and teaching responsibilities. Fellows engage in an intensive didactic educational conference curriculum encompassing various subjects: research, quality improvement, journal club, evidence-based medicine, patient safety, and radiology. Unique amenities such as a state-of-the-art simulation center and extensive training in pediatric point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) contribute to the program's distinctive offerings 1.

Additionally, fellows gain exposure to a regional poison control center and cumulative trauma experiences, which are vital for their development. The program's mission focuses on preparing physicians for independent practice while advancing the field through clinical expertise, scholarly activities, and leadership 1.

Research Opportunities

Research holds a central role in the fellowship experience. The program not only necessitates but also supports fellows in engaging in scholarly projects throughout their training. Fellows partake in online courses on epidemiology and biostatistics, receive mentorship, and are encouraged to submit research findings to national meetings and peer-reviewed journals. The establishment of a Scholarly Oversight Committee for each fellow reinforces the commitment to research and scholarly activity 1.

Monthly Rotations and Clinical Skills Development

The fellowship program's rotations facilitate comprehensive skill development, including initial assessment, resuscitation, stabilization, and management of pediatric emergencies. With a focus on both common and uncommon pediatric emergencies, fellows also receive exposure to adult emergencies to enhance their overall competency. The first-year fellows complete certifications in several essential life support courses, while gaining practical experience through direct patient care and supervision of other healthcare providers 1.

Rotations additionally incorporate four months of adult emergency medicine experience and are complemented by training alongside the UAB Adult Emergency Medicine Program and the adult trauma surgery team, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of emergency medicine across age groups 1.

Teaching and Education Component

The fellowship aims to cultivate effective educators within the field of pediatric emergency medicine. Fellows engage in teaching responsibilities through various avenues, such as precepting residents and mid-level providers, conducting simulations, and providing lectures to their peers and faculty. Involvements with community outreach programs, including teaching Pediatric Advanced Life Support courses, reinforce fellows' teaching skills while fostering community engagement 1.

Competitiveness and Application Process

Admission to the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program is highly competitive. The program reviews applications beginning in July, utilizing the Pediatric Subspecialties Fall Match process. Applicants are required to submit a personal statement, curriculum vitae, medical school transcript, and letters of recommendation from their Department Chairman or Residency Director. Specifically, applicants should be mindful of any special application requirements, including the year of graduation and any limitations regarding failed board exams 1.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs), including sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the acceptance of applicants from diverse educational backgrounds. This broad accessibility enhances the program's inclusiveness and opportunities for a global perspective in the training environment 1.

Program Facilities and Resources

The fellowship is hosted within the Benjamin Russell Children’s Hospital, a modern facility launched in 2012, which features specialized areas such as 53 emergency rooms, advanced imaging services, and in-house pediatric intensivists available around the clock. This environment ensures that fellows are continually exposed to a variety of clinical scenarios, enhancing their training and practical experiences in the field 2.

Fellowship Community and Alumni

The fellowship program prides itself on its collaborative community and strong alumni network, fostering professional relationships that can last throughout a fellow's career. Current fellows come from a range of esteemed institutions, showcasing the program’s ability to attract quality candidates. Engaging with peers and faculty enhances the learning environment and allows for knowledge sharing and professional development 3.