University of Colorado School of Medicine/National Jewish Health (Pediatric) Program

The University of Colorado School of Medicine/National Jewish Health Pediatric Allergy & Immunology Fellowship Program is an ACGME-accredited training program dedicated to providing advanced clinical training in allergic and immunologic diseases in pediatric populations. The program’s foremost goal is to prepare future allergists who are well-equipped to understand and treat a myriad of pediatric allergic and immunological conditions, including primary immunodeficiency, asthma, atopic dermatitis, food allergies, and anaphylaxis. In addition to pediatric training, the fellowship includes a unique cross-training component in adult allergy and clinical immunology, fostering a comprehensive understanding of both age groups.

The overall educational objectives of the fellowship are to ensure fellows develop expertise across several domains aligned with ACGME core competencies. Training emphasizes not only a deep clinical knowledge of allergy and immunology but also the facilitation of research opportunities in both clinical and basic science pertaining to allergic diseases.

Curriculum Overview

Fellows primarily receive their training at National Jewish Health, a premier tertiary care facility specializing in respiratory and allergic diseases. The curriculum involves clinical rotations, research assignments, and teaching conferences, creating a robust learning environment. A significant feature of the fellowship is that fellows spend approximately half of their two-year program engaged in clinical rotations at multiple sites, including:

• Pediatric Day Program and Care Unit at National Jewish Health
• Inpatient Consultation at Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children (RMHC)
• Pediatric and Adult Outpatient Allergy & Immunology Clinics at National Jewish Health
• Adult Allergy Consult service at the University of Colorado Hospital (UCH) for one month during the second year

Training Rotations

Pediatric Day Program

The Pediatric Day Program is designed for patients with severe allergic, pulmonary, and immune disorders, providing a multidisciplinary approach to their care. During this rotation, fellows are the primary providers under the supervision of attending faculty. It involves comprehensive management of conditions like chronic refractory asthma, severe allergic diseases, and immunodeficiency disorders.

Outpatient Clinics

Fellows engage in several outpatient clinics including:

• **Pediatric Allergy Continuity Clinic:** Focusing on asthma and allergic diseases.
• **Adult Allergy & Immunology Continuity Clinic:** Offering in-depth exposure to adult allergic conditions.
• **Pediatric Immunodeficiency Clinic:** Aimed at understanding and managing different types of immunodeficiencies.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Research forms a cornerstone of the fellowship, with each fellow collaborating with a faculty research mentor. Historically, fellows have presented their work at national meetings, involving topics like anaphylaxis, steroid responsiveness in asthma, and the molecular mechanisms behind primary immunodeficiencies. The program encourages high-quality research experiences and academic involvement, reinforcing the fellows' education and expertise.

Application Process

Application to the fellowship is conducted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants must submit a complete application, including:

• ERAS application
• Personal statement
• Curriculum vitae
• USMLE Part 1, 2, and 3 scores (if applicable)
• Medical school transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation

The program offers two positions annually, reflecting a highly competitive nature that attracts well-qualified candidates, including both DO and IMG applicants.

Benefits and Visa Support

Fellows receive compensation set at the fiftieth percentile of the Western Region, supplemented annually based on cost of living adjustments. Benefits include 21 calendar days of vacation per year, medical plans at no cost, and additional provisions for academic leave. Importantly, the program also provides visa sponsorship for international fellows, facilitating the participation of non-U.S. applicants.

Competitiveness and Requirements

The selection for the Pediatric Allergy & Immunology Fellowship is notably competitive. Preference is given to applicants who demonstrate excellence in their medical training and meet specific qualifications. Special application requirements may include the year of graduation and limits on failed STEP exams.

Educational Environment

The program benefits from the expertise of a diverse faculty well-versed in various aspects of allergy and immunology. From providing mentoring to engaging in collaborative research, faculty members enhance the educational experience by fostering a learning atmosphere conducive to both professional development and personal growth among fellows.