University of California (Irvine)/Children's Hospital of Orange County Program

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) and Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) offer a comprehensive Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Fellowship Program designed to prepare fellows for a career in clinical practice and academic medicine within the field of pediatric critical care.

Program Overview

This is a three-year ACGME-accredited fellowship that equips fellows with the necessary skills and experiences to become proficient in managing critically ill children. The program integrates clinical training, research opportunities, and teaching experiences, fostering a collaborative environment emphasizing professional growth and excellence.

Clinical Training

Fellows will gain extensive exposure to a diverse patient population through rotations in CHOC’s 30-bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and 12-bed Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU), as well as participating in a range of high-acuity scenarios. The fellowship facilitates more than 2,000 admissions per year, ensuring robust clinical exposure to various critical illnesses.

Unique Rotation Experiences

The fellowship includes unique rotation opportunities, such as:

• Vascular Access Training: A dedicated two-week rotation focusing on advanced vascular access techniques, taught by an experienced team that utilizes ultrasound-guided procedures.
• Telemedicine and Transport Programs: Involvement in CHOC's busy air and ground transport team and telemedicine consultations enhances fellows' skills in managing patient care across different settings.
• Involvement in Research: Research training is integral, with fellows given 16 months of protected time across the fellowship to work on scholarly projects under the guidance of experienced mentors.

Conference and Educational Structure

Fellows will participate in a structured curriculum that includes:

• Weekly teaching conferences focused on evidence-based medicine and literature review.
• Regular simulation sessions to practice critical skills in a controlled environment.
• Participation in interprofessional education and grand rounds, allowing for rich discussions and case presentations.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship places a heavy emphasis on research. Each fellow is required to complete a scholarly project that may involve basic, translational, or clinical research. Fellows have access to mentorship from faculty with established research tracks, enhancing their investigative skills.

Fellowship Benefits

Fellows receive a competitive salary along with benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance. They are also eligible for educational stipends to support their academic endeavors and conference attendance.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports J-1 visas for international medical graduates, facilitating participation from a diverse group of applicants.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Fellowship at UCI/CHOC is highly competitive, and applications are accepted from US medical graduates as well as International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Candidates are encouraged to have passed all USMLE exams on the first attempt when applying. The program values diversity and encourages individuals from various backgrounds to apply, promoting an inclusive culture in medical training.

The Application Process

Interested applicants should prepare to apply through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS), demonstrating their dedication and qualifications. Requirement documents typically include a personal statement, letters of recommendation, proof of clinical rotations and experiences, transcripts from medical school, and a copy of the curriculum vitae.