University of Pennsylvania Health System Program
Location:
Philadelphia, PASpecialty:
Undersea and hyperbaric medicine (Emergency medicine)ACGME Code:
1194121001The University of Pennsylvania Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Fellowship Program offers a comprehensive training experience in the specialty of diving and hyperbaric medicine. This year-long fellowship is designed for licensed physicians and aims to deliver both didactic and practical training necessary to excel in a hyperbaric clinical and research environment.
Program Overview
Fellows who complete the program obtain the knowledge and skills required to work efficiently and competently in the field. They are equipped to supervise hyperbaric chamber operations and become eligible to sit for the American Board of Medical Specialists' certification examination in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine. The fellowship encompasses various aspects including occupational, environmental, and safety issues pertinent to diving and hyperbaric medicine 1.
Curriculum and Training
The curriculum is meticulously structured to cover essential areas, ensuring fellows gain a broad understanding of clinical and therapeutic applications of hyperbaric oxygen (HB02) therapy.
Required Clinical Activities
Fellows actively participate in:
- Monitoring daily HB02 treatment sessions, and providing emergency on-call treatments.
- Consultation services for referral physicians.
- Weekly clinics encompassing wound care, vascular surgery, plastic surgery, and diving medicine.
Didactic Curriculum
The didactic component features:
- Weekly clinical rounds discussions and Grand Rounds.
- A bi-weekly hyperbaric medicine lecture series that includes formal lectures, literature reviews, and core subject reviews.
- Development and presentation of four core lectures at community hospitals and other academic settings.
- Involvement in ongoing research projects tailored to fellow’s interests 1.
Research Opportunities
Research is a fundamental aspect of the fellowship, with fellows encouraged to either participate in ongoing projects or develop new ones with funding from internal resources. The fellowship aims to foster the necessary academic skills to develop effective teaching and research capabilities in hyperbaric medicine.
Fellowship Requirements
Applicants must have completed an accredited residency program and hold or be eligible for a medical license in Pennsylvania. The fellowship accommodates two fellows each year, allowing for a collaborative environment within the Division of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine, part of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. This setup encourages participation in both clinical and research activities, offering a rich professional development experience 1.
Visa Support
The program provides sponsorship for J-1 visas for international graduates seeking to pursue this fellowship. This enables broader access for qualified international medical graduates (IMGs) who are interested in specializing in diving and hyperbaric medicine.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The fellowship is competitive, and applicants are evaluated based on their previous experience, qualifications, and readiness for advanced training. There may be a preference for candidates who are board eligible or certified in emergency medicine. The application generally requires submission of a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and letters of recommendation without a specific maximum limit on failed USMLE Step exams stipulated.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program’s faculty comprises experienced professionals highly dedicated to teaching and mentorship, emphasizing both quality care and innovative research. The diverse clinical exposure and specialized training makes this fellowship distinct, ensuring fellows emerge as leaders in the field of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine.
Website
Director
Kevin R Hardy, MDProgram Director - Fellowship in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine Appointed Since February 2014Coordinator
Program
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Philadelphia, PA
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Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.
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