University of North Carolina Hospitals Program

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill Department of Emergency Medicine is designed for professionals seeking advanced training in pediatric emergency care. With ACGME accreditation received in 2006, the program offers two distinct tracks: a 2-year fellowship for those trained in Emergency Medicine and a 3-year fellowship for those with a background in Pediatrics. A maximum of four fellows are accepted into the program at any given time, ensuring an intimate training environment.

The primary clinical site for the fellowship is the Children’s Emergency Department at WakeMed Health and Hospitals, located in Raleigh, North Carolina. This department is a high-volume facility, treating over 40,000 pediatric patients per year with a wide array of undifferentiated pathologies, making it an ideal setting for comprehensive training in pediatric emergency medicine. The faculty here are highly trained in both emergency and pediatric emergency medicine and also serve as academic mentors.1

Clinical Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is structured to provide fellows with hands-on experience in diverse pediatric emergency scenarios. Apart from the core rotations at WakeMed, fellows will have opportunities to rotate in specialty pediatric services, such as the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at UNC Hospital. Additionally, fellows can engage in a toxicology rotation at the Carolinas Poison Control Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. This multifaceted training supports a well-rounded experience essential for managing pediatric emergencies effectively.

Didactic Program

Recognizing the importance of academic enrichment, the fellowship includes a comprehensive didactic program. A highlight of this program is the monthly interdisciplinary simulation exercises, which take place in a state-of-the-art high-fidelity simulation center. These simulations are designed to foster teamwork and critical thinking skills in high-pressure environments, preparing fellows for real-life challenges in pediatric emergency medicine.

Application Process

The fellowship participates in the Electronic Residency Application Services (ERAS) and the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). To apply, candidates must submit a completed online application along with a current photograph, personal statement, three letters of recommendation, a Dean’s letter, and a medical school transcript. It is also mandatory to provide documentation of completion of Parts 1, 2, and 3 of the U.S. Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE). Graduates of international medical schools must also provide a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certificate. Applications must be submitted by August 7, followed by interviews scheduled in September and October.2

Eligibility and Competitiveness

The fellowship program is considered highly competitive, favoring applicants with robust clinical backgrounds, whether from pediatric or emergency medicine residencies. Additionally, the program is open to applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, including osteopathic (DO) and International Medical Graduates (IMG). However, prospective candidates should ensure they meet all special application requirements to enhance their competitiveness.

Visa Support

The fellowship offers visa support for international fellows. It can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visa types, enabling eligible candidates to train in the United States while complying with immigration regulations. This support is crucial for international medical graduates seeking specialized training in pediatric emergency medicine.

Benefits

The fellowship includes competitive stipends and comprehensive health coverage encompassing medical, dental, and vision plans. Fellows also gain access to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare and deferred compensation savings plans. Such benefits contribute to a supportive training environment that prioritizes the well-being of fellows.

Diversity and Inclusion

The UNC School of Medicine has established an office of Inclusion Excellence aimed at enhancing equity and inclusion within its various programs. The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship actively participates in these initiatives, striving to recruit a diverse cohort of faculty and fellows to reflect the community it serves. This intentional focus fosters an inclusive learning environment for all trainees.3