University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria Program

The Neonatal-Perinatal Fellowship Program at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria offers a comprehensive journey in neonatology. This program is anchored by its partnership with OSF Healthcare Children's Hospital of Illinois, a distinguished Level IV comprehensive neonatal center. Located in central Illinois, the program serves as the North Central Perinatal Network Referral Center, catering to a wide range of neonatal pathologies and providing advanced care to infants and mothers.

This fellowship is situated within the Department of Pediatrics, which is recognized for its robust Pediatrics Residency program. The program emphasizes clinical excellence, quality improvement, and individual scholarly growth.

Curriculum and Training

The fellowship curriculum is designed to equip fellows with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in both academic and private practice settings. It maintains a strong focus on clinical care, encompassing surgical and cardiac services, as well as a neonatal resuscitation program dedicated to extremely premature infants from as early as 22 weeks gestation. The curriculum emphasizes a diverse range of pathologies, enhanced by the program's unique location, which offers a broader experience compared to urban programs.

The active training environment allows fellows to engage in various clinical teams, consisting of attendings, neonatal nurse practitioners, and residents, thereby fostering a collaborative learning atmosphere. Fellows will also be involved in research, analyzing data, and producing manuscripts under the guidance of experienced mentors in the Pediatric department. This mentorship extends to participating in dedicated lectures on evidence-based pediatric care and research methodologies.

Research Opportunities

Each fellow is expected to engage in active research, with numerous ongoing projects that encompass vital topics such as predictive models for neonatal conditions and quality improvement initiatives addressing disparities in neonatal care. The program encourages fellows to gain experience through collaborative research, promoting a hands-on approach to understanding and addressing challenges in neonatal healthcare.

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship is structured over three years, allowing for progressive responsibilities and independence in clinical practice. The training includes rotations across various teams and subspecialties, ensuring a wide-based exposure to different cases and management strategies. Fellows will follow a detailed call schedule, with supervised clinical responsibilities tailored progressively each year.

Application Process

To apply for this fellowship, candidates must provide a comprehensive application including a CV, personal statement, and at least three letters of recommendation—one from the program director and another from a neonatologist. Candidates' experiences, preparedness for fellowship, academic credentials, and clinical and communication skills serve as vital criteria for selection. The program actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from varying backgrounds to enrich the learning environment.

Visa and Competitiveness

The Neonatal-Perinatal Fellowship Program supports certain visa types for international applicants. Highly competitive, the fellowship encourages diversity and seeks to admit candidates who have excelled academically and clinically. It is known to be friendly towards students from various backgrounds, including DO candidates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs).

Life in Peoria

The fellowship experience is enhanced by life in Peoria, which offers a community that is both supportive and stimulating. Fellows participate in various activities promoting wellness and camaraderie, including retreats and social gatherings. The program also fosters a collegial environment among fellows and faculty, enhancing the overall fellowship experience.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship provides competitive salary packages and a comprehensive benefits program for fellows and their families. Specific financial compensation details and resources available to fellows can be provided during the application process.