University of Connecticut Program

The University of Connecticut offers a comprehensive Anesthesiology Critical Care Medicine Fellowship that is well-structured for training competent intensivists. This program is a one-year multidisciplinary fellowship accredited by the ACGME, with a total of two fellow candidates selected each year. It invites applications from residents of both Anesthesiology and Emergency Medicine.

The fellowship participates in the San Francisco Match process, providing an organized pathway for candidates to enter this program which is dedicated to producing well-rounded and experienced consultants in Critical Care Medicine.

Clinical Training Environment

The clinical experience is broad-based, taking place at various prestigious hospitals including Hartford Hospital, The Hospital of Central Connecticut, and UConn Health. This environment exposes fellows to a rich diversity of clinical scenarios under the guidance of a multidisciplinary faculty from the specialties of Anesthesia, Surgery, Pulmonary Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Cardiology, and Neurology. At Hartford Hospital specifically, fellows belong to a robust academic and clinical institution, one that sees approximately 2,000 trauma admissions yearly and manages over 3,000 surgical ICU admissions per year.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum consists of a series of core rotations structured into 4-week blocks, comprising 13 blocks in total. The breakdown is as follows:

• 7 Blocks: Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU)
• 1 Block: Neurosurgical ICU (NSICU)
• 1 Block: Cardiothoracic SICU (CTICU)
• 1 Block: Coronary Care Unit (CCU)
• 5 Blocks: Critical Care Ultrasound/TEE
• 5 Blocks: Research/Scholarly Activity
• 1 Block: Vacation
• 1 Block: Electives

Elective options allow fellows to customize their training with topics such as Infectious Disease, Nephrology, or Nutrition among others, further enhancing their clinical exposure and expertise.

Scholarly Activity and Research

Fellows are expected to engage in scholarly activity, which may include research studies, presentations at national meetings, writing published articles, or contributing to book chapters. The fellowship sponsors monthly research forums to support fellows in their projects by discussing research methodology and offering guidance on writing.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

The program emphasizes diversity and inclusion, actively promoting a culture that values varied backgrounds and experiences. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Track enables fellows to refine their competencies in DEI, enhancing professional development and scholarship related to diversity in the healthcare field.

Faculty and Mentoring

The faculty for this fellowship is comprised of knowledgeable professionals from the various relevant departments. Each faculty member has substantial experience in Critical Care Medicine, having completed fellowships in this area. Their mentorship is pivotal in guiding fellows towards becoming leaders and experts in the field of Anesthesiology and Surgical Critical Care.

Fellow Wellness

Recognizing the demanding nature of fellowship training, the program promotes a supportive environment that prioritizes mental and physical health. Activities such as wellness events, vacation time, and access to mental health resources are offered to ensure fellows maintain a balanced lifestyle during their rigorous training.

Eligibility and Application Process

The application process requires candidates to apply through the San Francisco Match, demonstrating qualifications that include graduating from accredited medical schools, passing necessary USMLE Steps, and being either US citizens or foreign nationals eligible for a J-1 visa, as mentioned in the program's visa policy. The program upholds a commitment to diversity and inclusivity.