University of Louisville School of Medicine Program

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at the University of Louisville School of Medicine is an ACGME-accredited program designed to produce highly competent surgeons capable of managing critically ill patients. The program encompasses extensive clinical training through various rotations at the University of Louisville Hospital, which is a Level-I Trauma Center, and offers additional elective opportunities at nearby institutions such as UofL Health – Jewish Hospital and Norton Children's Hospital. These sites are conveniently located within a five-minute walk from the main training facility, enhancing the accessibility of diverse clinical experiences.

Individuals who complete this fellowship develop a thorough understanding of the management of acute surgical problems along with critical care procedures and techniques. The program emphasizes not only the performance of lifesaving procedures but also the ability to interpret associated diagnostic data effectively. This includes a strong focus on the interpretation of radiographic studies across various imaging modalities.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship runs across different years categorized primarily into Surgical Critical Care (PGY-6) and Acute Care Surgery (PGY-7) rotations. The Surgical Critical Care year involves a detailed training schedule focused on trauma, surgical techniques, and critical illness management through hands-on experience.

For the Surgical Critical Care fellowship, the curriculum includes experiences with trauma patients, surgical critical care units, and burn units. Fellows engage in direct patient care under the supervision of full-time faculty, allowing them to assess and manage a full spectrum of critical illnesses. The program also nurtures fellows' leadership capabilities, preparing them to lead trauma teams and make independent clinical decisions.

Rotations Details

Fellows participate in various elective rotations, including:

• Burn Rotation: Includes comprehensive training on the treatment of burns and related injuries.
• Neuroanesthesia Rotation: Focused on managing critically ill patients suffering from neurological disorders.
• Cardiovascular ICU Rotation: Concentrates on postoperative patients from cardiac surgeries, including emergency risk management.
• Surgical ICU Rotation: Specifically for managing emergency general surgery patients.

Research and Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship encourages participation in research activities to further enrich the fellows' educational experience and contribute to the advancement of surgical critical care. The program is committed to fostering a learning environment that integrates clinical practice with academic inquiry.

One of the key unique features of the program is the active role fellows play in understanding the broader implications of trauma and surgical intensive care within the healthcare system. This includes engagement with the socioeconomic factors that affect the delivery of care.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Admission to the program is competitive, and candidates are encouraged to present a strong application. Ideal candidates should have completed at least five years of General Surgery training in an ACGME-accredited program and be board-eligible in surgery. Applications must be submitted through SAFAS, with a complete application consisting of a CV, USMLE scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates, specifically for J-1 or H-1B visa types, ensuring access to the fellowship for a diverse range of applicants.

Stipends and Benefits

The Surgical Critical Care Fellowship offers a competitive stipend for fellows, along with comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, malpractice coverage, and access to medical and recreational facilities.

Overall, the fellowship is structured to build technical competency and decision-making prowess in high-stakes environments, preparing fellows for leadership roles in surgical critical care.