University of Maryland Program

Program Overview and Philosophy

The University of Maryland Program offers a distinguished five-year combined Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics Residency that is part of an exclusive group, being one of only four programs of its kind in the United States 1. Established in 1994, this program accepts two residents annually, currently training them to adeptly handle the intricacies of both emergency medicine and pediatrics 2. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to earn board certification from both the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Board of Emergency Medicine 1. The program is committed to cultivating a collaborative and enriching learning environment that promotes both academic and community medical practice.

Curriculum and Rotations

Curriculum Structure

The program's curriculum is meticulously structured with an equal focus on emergency medicine and pediatrics, allocating 30 months to each specialty 2. Residents engage in 3- to 6-month rotational blocks that ensure comprehensive exposure to a vast range of medical scenarios.

Rotations

Rotations are designed to cover critical areas such as critical care, neonatology, trauma, and outpatient pediatrics 2. From the outset, Year 1 provides a broad exposure across multiple disciplines, ensuring a solid foundational experience. Moving into Year 2, the curriculum intensifies with a focus on critical care exposure. In Year 3, residents transition into more senior roles, taking on greater responsibility. Year 4 emphasizes developing leadership skills necessary for autonomous practice, and by Year 5, residents are prepared for leadership and advanced practice opportunities.

Training Sites and Facilities

The training is conducted across a variety of clinical settings, ensuring that residents acquire a diverse skill set. Key training facilities include emergency departments, Shock Trauma, Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), as well as various outpatient clinics 2. Notably, the pediatric trauma rotations are held at DC Children’s Hospital, offering specialized experiences. Additionally, residents have the opportunity to pursue elective rotations to focus on particular areas of interest 2.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Starting in the Fall of 2025, applications to the Emergency Medicine/Pediatrics Residency must be processed via ResidencyCAS rather than ERAS 3. Prospective candidates interested in multiple programs must submit separate applications for each pathway: Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, and the combined Emergency Medicine/Pediatrics program. Invitations to interview will consider applications for both the categorical and combined programs 3.

Research Opportunities

The Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at the University of Maryland actively engages in research initiatives in the fields of injury prevention, telemedicine, child sexual abuse, and toxicology 4. Residents have access to specialized training programs, including the Pediatric Sexual Abuse/Rape Assessment Program, a Multidisciplinary Pediatric Asthma Program, and a Pediatric Sedation Program, all fostering an environment geared towards innovative research 4.

Unique Program Features

Residents are encouraged to participate in multidisciplinary enrichment activities that foster their development into well-rounded clinicians. Key activities include the EM/Peds Combined Journal Clubs, Grand Rounds, and Pediatric Simulation Training 2. Attendance at national conferences is promoted to further professional development. Approximately half of the program's graduates transition into academic medicine roles, while the remainder of graduates pursue careers in community practice.

Resident Wellness and Support

Resident wellness and support are integral aspects of the program, ensuring balance and holistic development throughout the residency 2. The program places a strong emphasis on maintaining a supportive learning environment that addresses the physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being of its residents 2. Activities and initiatives aimed at promoting mental health and work-life balance are interwoven into the residency experience.

Through its extensive curriculum, exceptional training facilities, and numerous opportunities for professional and personal growth, the University of Maryland's Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics Residency Program stands as a formidable choice for aspiring physicians aiming to excel in these critical fields of medicine.