University of Connecticut Program

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at the University of Connecticut is dedicated to providing comprehensive training for fellows who aim to become proficient in managing critically ill patients. The program has established itself over more than 20 years with ACGME accreditation and accepts four fellows annually. The fellows are integral to the patient care team and collaborate closely with attending intensivists, acquiring essential hands-on experience along with leadership skills in critical care settings. The fellowship structure supports the fellows' development through active participation in teaching and mentorship of house officers and medical students 1.

Hartford Hospital, as a Level I academic medical center, offers a robust clinical environment featuring around 800 beds, approximately 2,000 trauma admissions per year, and over 3,000 surgical ICU admissions. The three specialized critical care units provide services in general surgery/trauma, cardiothoracic, and neurocritical care, with a dedicated capacity of 46 ICU beds and 21 step-down beds. This supportive infrastructure ensures continuity of care and a comprehensive exposure to diverse clinical scenarios for the fellows 1.

Curriculum

The fellowship curriculum begins with an intensive Critical Care Boot Camp, held at the Center for Education, Simulation, and Innovation (CESI). This initial phase incorporates advanced simulation training that equips fellows with vital skills in areas such as sepsis management, airway management, and recognition and management of shock. Ongoing educational opportunities include direct involvement in resident education as simulation instructors 4.

The 12-month fellowship encompasses rotations in all three ICUs, experience in pediatric critical care, palliative care, dedicated research time, and elective opportunities in specialized areas such as trauma, hepatobiliary, and vascular surgery. The program emphasizes the integration of various disciplines, providing a multidisciplinary approach with contributions from nursing and allied health professionals during daily rounds 4.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research and quality improvement projects, supported by monthly forums where they can discuss findings and receive guidance on methodologies. The program emphasizes the importance of both clinical inquiry and scientific investigation, with access to dedicated resources to facilitate outcomes research 6.

Well-Being and Support

The fellowship prioritizes the well-being of its trainees through a structured mentorship program, offering fellows the chance to select personal mentors who guide them in their professional and personal development. Additionally, fellows have access to free confidential counseling services to help maintain mental and emotional health. A variety of social events further strengthen the fellowship community, promoting engagement amongst fellows 7.

Application Information

To be considered for the Surgical Critical Care Fellowship, applicants must have completed at least three years of training in a U.S. or Canadian general surgery residency program. Applications are accepted via the Surgical Critical Care and Acute Care Surgery Fellowship Application Service (SAFAS) or through direct submission of essential documents such as a curriculum vitae, dean’s letter, letters of recommendation, and licensing board scores. The program is open to both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates; J-1 visa sponsorship is available for eligible candidates 2.

Faculty

The faculty involved in the Surgical Critical Care Fellowship comprises highly qualified specialists from various relevant departments including Surgery, Anesthesiology, Emergency Medicine, and Neurology. These faculty members are not only experienced clinicians but also educators dedicated to fostering the next generation of surgical intensivists, providing mentorship and advanced training in critical care methodologies 5.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program actively promotes diversity within its ranks and is committed to reflecting the rich diversity of its community. The fellowship provides resources and support aimed at enhancing the training of underrepresented groups in medicine, fostering an inclusive environment conducive to compassionate, culturally competent care 1.