University of Maryland Program
Location:
Baltimore, MDSpecialty:
Pediatric critical care medicineACGME Code:
3232321070The program in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine at the University of Maryland aims to provide a comprehensive training experience for physicians interested in managing critically ill pediatric patients. This fellowship program is designed for candidates who have completed a residency in either Pediatrics or Internal Medicine-Pediatrics and who are board-certified or board-eligible by the American Board of Pediatrics.
The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) serves as the core training site for the program. This 19-bed multidisciplinary unit is equipped to handle a variety of medical and surgical emergencies, ensuring that fellows gain firsthand experience in a robust clinical environment. The facility admits over 1,000 young patients each year, necessitating advanced care techniques such as cardiopulmonary support, advanced ventilatory management, and other critical interventions.6
Curriculum and Training
Fellows in the Pediatric Critical Care Medicine program will engage in a curriculum that balances practical clinical training with opportunities for research. The fellowship is structured over three years, with approximately half the time devoted to direct clinical care in the PICU and the remaining half allocated for research. Fellows are expected to participate actively in the clinical management of patients while also engaging in research projects that contribute to the field of Pediatric Critical Care.6
The clinical training encompasses a range of critical care interventions, with fellows progressively taking on more responsibility in patient management as they advance through the program. They will also have opportunities to rotate in various specialties, including pediatric anesthesiology and trauma care at renowned institutions such as Johns Hopkins University, thus broadening their exposure and expertise.6
Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes the importance of research as a component of academic development. Fellows are encouraged to explore various research projects that may influence clinical practice in Pediatric Critical Care. They also participate in clinical rounds and discussions that focus on the latest advancements in pediatric medicine, offering a platform to disseminate findings and foster collaborative research.6
The Care Team
At the heart of the fellowship program is the multidisciplinary team approach which includes attending physicians, nurse practitioners, critical care nurses, respiratory therapists, and various pediatric specialists. This collaborative model enhances the learning environment while providing high-quality care for critically ill children.6
Regular family-centered rounds are conducted to discuss patient progress and care plans, ensuring that families are integrally involved in the recovery process. Parents are permitted to stay at the bedside 24/7, emphasizing the family's role in pediatric care via continuous communication and involvement in decision-making.2
Training Sites
The Pediatric Critical Care Medicine program is hosted at the University of Maryland Children's Hospital and its state-of-the-art facilities. With advanced medical technology and a commitment to quality improvement, the PICU has developed protocols that significantly reduce complications and improve patient outcomes.3
Visa Support
The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants. Eligible visa types may include J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the acceptance of international medical graduates into the fellowship program. This support is essential for fostering a diverse learning environment and enhancing the academic exchange within the field of pediatric critical care.6
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship at the University of Maryland is competitive, with a limited number of positions available each year, typically ranging from 1 to 2 fellows annually. Admission is open to U.S.-trained applicants who have graduated from accredited residency programs. Specific special application requirements may include guidelines regarding the number of attempts and scores on standardized tests, such as the USMLE, but these details can vary. Familiarity with the application process and strong performance in pediatric residency are central to a successful application.6
Website
Director
Jason W Custer, MDProfessor of Pediatrics, Division Chief of Pediatric Critical Care, Program Director PCCM Fellowship Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
26hrsFirst Year Salary:
$71,979First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Baltimore, MD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Baltimore, MD - Program Location Overview
- Crime Rate and Safety: Baltimore has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, with some areas being safer than others. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods for safety before moving.
- Fun Activities: Baltimore offers a variety of cultural attractions, such as the Inner Harbor, museums, historic sites, and waterfront activities. There are also parks, nightlife spots, and diverse dining options to explore.
- Climate: Baltimore experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making outdoor activities enjoyable during those times.
- Races and Population: Baltimore is a diverse city with a significant African American population. It also has a mix of other races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant culture and communities.
- Education: Baltimore is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational opportunities and contributing to the city's intellectual landscape.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Baltimore is slightly above the national average, with housing costs being a significant factor. Rent and home prices can vary greatly depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Baltimore is about an hour's drive away from Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. Both cities offer their own unique attractions, cultural experiences, and job opportunities for residents willing to commute.
- Pros: Diverse population, cultural attractions, educational opportunities, proximity to other major cities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate in some areas, slightly above average cost of living, extreme weather conditions.
Interview Questions
