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

Overview of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) and CHOC Children’s Hospital collaboratively offer a comprehensive three-year ACGME-accredited fellowship in Pediatric Infectious Diseases. This program seeks to prepare fellows for independent practice and to equip them with the skills necessary for leadership roles in clinical and academic pediatrics.

Program Structure

The fellowship consists of diverse clinical experiences, extensive educational opportunities, and a strong research component. Each year, fellows will participate in inpatient consult services, outpatient settings, and scholarly research, ensuring a balanced approach to both patient care and academic development.

Yearly Breakdown

• First Year: Primarily focused on clinical rotations, including significant inpatient and outpatient responsibilities. Fellows will also engage in targeted training through an epidemiology rotation and gain hands-on experience in various clinics.
• Second Year: Transition toward more scholarly activity with increased emphasis on research projects and quality improvement initiatives. Clinical duties will continue in outpatient clinics.
• Third Year: Continued clinical exposure alongside a strong focus on research, where fellows will solidify their independent research projects with guidance from faculty mentors.

Curriculum

The educational curriculum is designed to cover essential aspects of pediatric infectious diseases, incorporating experience with antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention strategies. The first-year clinical training includes rotations at CHOC and affiliated institutions, allowing for exposure to varied patient populations and clinical complexities.

Clinical Rotations Include:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases inpatient consult service.
• Outpatient care in specialized clinics.
• Adult Infectious Diseases rotation at UCI Medical Center.
• Epidemiology training at the Orange County Health Care Agency.
• Consultation in primary immunodeficiency care and HIV clinics.

Research Opportunities

Research is central to the fellowship program, with each fellow expected to undertake a mentored research project that aligns with their individual interests. This includes opportunities for collaborative projects with faculty at CHOC and UCI, aimed at contributing to the field of pediatric infectious diseases.

Protected Research Time:

Fellows will have dedicated research blocks in each year of training, with more emphasis on research during the second and third years. They are expected to present their work at local and national conferences.

Unique Features

The fellowship program includes unique interdisciplinary experiences and community engagement. Fellows will not only learn through traditional settings but also participate in public health initiatives, enhancing their understanding of infectious disease epidemiology and prevention.

Qualities of the Program:

• Strong mentorship from faculty with diverse backgrounds.
• Training at a renowned institution known for its commitment to pediatric healthcare.
• Access to a variety of clinical experiences that ensure comprehensive training and exposure.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The UCI/CHOC Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship is competitive, attracting qualified applicants from various backgrounds, including U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and J-1 visa holders. Candidates should have completed a pediatric residency and demonstrate interest in academia or clinical practice.

Application Requirements Include:

• A completed application via the ERAS system.
• Three letters of recommendation, preferably including one from the residency program director.
• A personal statement detailing interests in infectious diseases and future career goals.

Visa Support

The program offers support for J-1 visas, catering to international medical graduates seeking training opportunities in the United States.

Conclusion

The fellowship encapsulates a robust training experience centered on clinical excellence, research, and commitment to public health and education. It cultivates future leaders in pediatric infectious diseases within a supportive academic environment.