University of California (San Francisco) Program
Location:
San Francisco, CASpecialty:
Pediatric critical care medicineACGME Code:
3230521021The Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) focuses on advanced training in the care of critically ill infants and children. The program is part of the UCSF Department of Pediatrics, which is dedicated to training future leaders in the field of pediatric critical care medicine.
Mission and Vision
The fellowship aims to provide compassionate, high-quality, state-of-the-art care for critically ill pediatric patients. The multidisciplinary environment of the program supports education and research, thereby enhancing the overall quality of care in pediatric critical settings. The fellowship is designed to produce clinicians who will excel in the practice, leadership, and advancement of pediatric critical care medicine.
Curriculum and Training
The fellowship program combines both clinical and scholarly training. Fellows engage in direct patient care along with educational experiences. The curriculum includes:
- Clinical Rotations: Fellows rotate through various critical care settings, including the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), where they handle a diverse array of acute and chronic illnesses.
- Didactic Education: Weekly conferences and lectures cover topics critical to pediatric critical care.
- Simulation Training: Interactive simulation exercises are integrated into the curriculum to prepare fellows for real-life scenarios.
Fellows are expected to participate in research, which is a vital aspect of the program aimed at advancing the field of pediatric critical care medicine.
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship. UCSF offers a rich environment with numerous faculty members engaged in basic, translational, and clinical research. Areas of research may include:
- Innovative therapies for critically ill children.
- Outcomes research in pediatric critical care.
- Quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing care in critical settings.
Fellows are supported in applying for research grants and are encouraged to publish their work in peer-reviewed journals.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The UCSF Fellowship in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine stands out for its commitment to developing leaders in the field. The following features enhance the uniqueness of the program:
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The program emphasizes collaboration with various disciplines, including nursing, pharmacy, and social work, for a holistic approach to patient care.
- Global Health Emphasis: There are opportunities for fellows to engage in projects related to global health, further expanding their perspective on pediatric care.
- Mentorship: Dedicated mentorship from experienced faculty guides fellows through their academic research and clinical training.
Training Sites
The fellowship primarily takes place at the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, which serves as a leading tertiary care facility for complex pediatric cases. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art resources and serves a diverse patient population.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs) under certain visa types, including J-1 and H-1B visas. The fellowship is highly competitive, attracting applicants from both MD and DO backgrounds. It aims to cultivate a diverse cohort of fellows, actively encouraging applications from candidates of varied backgrounds.
Application Requirements
Applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited pediatric residency program. Specific requirements include:
- A maximum of one failed USMLE Step examination.
- Submission of a personal statement outlining career goals and motivations for pursuing pediatric critical care.
- Three letters of recommendation, including one from a pediatric faculty member.
A strong interest in research and academic medicine is advantageous.
Website
Director
Mindy Ju, MD, MAEdProgram Director and Assistant Clinical Professor of Pediatrics Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
28hrsFirst Year Salary:
$101,017First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
San Francisco, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in San Francisco, CA
- Crime Rate and Safety: San Francisco has a higher crime rate compared to many other cities in the country. However, certain neighborhoods are safer than others. It's essential to research the safety of the specific area where you plan to live.
- Fun Activities: San Francisco offers a vibrant cultural scene, numerous restaurants, art museums, parks, and beautiful beaches. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and water sports.
- Climate: San Francisco has a mild climate with cool summers and rainy winters. The city is known for its foggy weather, especially during the summer months.
- Races and Population: San Francisco is a diverse city with a mix of races and ethnicities. It is known for its open-mindedness and acceptance of all cultures.
- Education: The city is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering opportunities for learning and research.
- Cost of Living: San Francisco has a high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. It's important to consider this when planning your budget.
- Proximity to Other Cities: San Francisco is close to other major cities like Oakland, Berkeley, and San Jose. Driving times to these cities vary but are generally within an hour's range.
- Pros: Rich cultural scene, diverse population, opportunities for outdoor activities, and renowned educational institutions.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, and certain areas may have safety concerns.
Interview Questions
