University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program

The Neonatal-Perinatal Fellowship Program at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine provides exceptional training in the care of critically ill newborns, focusing on evidence-based practices. As the only Level IV NICU in New Mexico, the program offers comprehensive clinical experiences and educational opportunities to foster the development of skilled neonatologists.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship is a three-year program accredited by the Residency Review Committee of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. The training encompasses a wide range of clinical experiences, including direct patient care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), developmental follow-up, and perinatal consultation. The clinical training primarily occurs at the University of New Mexico Children’s Hospital and the UNM Health Sciences Center, both of which boast state-of-the-art facilities. The fellows participate in a series of didactic sessions that include a 3-day annual Neonatal Skills Lab using high-fidelity simulation, Neonatology conferences, and seminars specifically tailored for neonatal fellows, ensuring a robust learning environment 1.

Clinical Rotations and Experiences

The fellows' clinical training is comprehensive and designed to provide exposure to a diverse patient population. Within the first six months, fellows focus heavily on acquiring procedural skills, including intubations, umbilical line placements, and central line placements. With increasing responsibility over the fellowship period, fellows learn to manage complex medical and surgical problems. Each clinical block consists of 52 weeks of service over three years, with opportunities to front-load service weeks in the first two years 3.

Service and Call Responsibilities

Fellows are expected to complete about 150 calls during the fellowship, comprising weekday and weekend duties. Light call responsibilities are offered in the third year to facilitate a focus on educational and research initiatives 4.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship emphasizes scholarly activities, allowing fellows to dedicate around 24 months of protected non-clinical time to research projects. By working closely with research mentors, fellows are equipped to take on various basic science or clinical studies, particularly those affiliated with the NICHD Neonatal Research Network and the Vermont Oxford Network. Fellows’ research work also includes collaborations with a multitude of faculty members across different disciplines within the Health Sciences system at UNM 5.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The UNM Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship prides itself on diversity and inclusivity in its training environment. The program actively seeks to prepare fellows for diverse clinical scenarios they may encounter throughout their practice. With a patient population that reflects unique familial and cultural backgrounds, fellows encounter various clinical situations, including rare diagnoses 6.

Educational Conferences

The fellowship incorporates numerous educational conferences, including the Neo Grand Rounds and a monthly Journal Club that fosters critical evaluation of current neonatal literature. These discussions are pivotal in the learning process and aid fellows in staying updated on best practices in neonatal care 7.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The Neonatal-Perinatal Fellowship program provides visa support and sponsors J1 visas for candidates who meet the eligibility criteria. International medical graduates who have completed their pediatric residency training in the U.S. are encouraged to apply 8.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The application process is competitive, necessitating applicants to have completed three years of pediatric residency training in an ACGME accredited program. A strong application must include official medical school transcripts, USMLE transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. There are no specified limits on failed STEP exams; however, candidates must demonstrate the competency expected of a resident 9.

Living in Albuquerque

Albuquerque offers a unique blend of urban living and small-town charm, providing a supportive and enriching environment for fellows. The city is known for its cultural diversity, beautiful landscapes, and a vibrant social scene that enhances the overall fellowship experience. The cost of living is relatively affordable, allowing fellows to enjoy a balanced lifestyle while pursuing their training 10.