University of Tennessee Program

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers a three-year Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship that is fully ACGME-accredited since 1984. The program is designed to equip trainees with in-depth knowledge and clinical skills necessary for recognizing and managing neonatal clinical conditions. Upon completion of the fellowship, trainees are also expected to teach others involved in neonatal care, with particular focus on neonatal stabilization, transport, and delivery of intensive care 1.

This fellowship program admits two fellows each year and has established strong connections with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, particularly in Maternal-Fetal Medicine 1. One of the unique features of the program is its emphasis on research training, enabling fellows to understand hypothesis testing, study design, data collection, and result analysis using appropriate statistical methods 1.

Curriculum Structure

Fellows participate in a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses a variety of clinical rotations over a three-year period. The program includes 14 months of clinical rotations where fellows experience extensive hands-on learning through high patient volume, approximately 1700 admissions per year across the two training facilities: the level IV NICU at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital and the level III NICU at Regional One Health 1.

In addition to these rotations, fellows will spend 1 month as an acting attending and an additional 1 month each on Cardiology and Maternal-Fetal Medicine rotations 8. Such a diverse rotation schedule is devised to enhance clinical exposure across various neonatal conditions.

Facilities

The primary training facility is the Sheldon B. Korones Newborn Center, which features a 65-bed level III NICU, and admits around 1350 patients annually. The center serves as a regional referral site for high-risk deliveries in West Tennessee, allowing fellows to engage in diverse clinical experiences including resuscitation and management of very low birth weight infants 7.

The fellowship program also uses the NICU at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, a level IV unit that admits high-acuity surgical, cardiac, and other specialty cases from surrounding areas. This facility is notable for its cutting-edge resources and is ranked among the top pediatric hospitals in the nation, enhancing the fellows' learning experience through exposure to complex cases 7.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in clinical and basic science research projects during their fellowship. The faculty has diverse interests, ranging from immunology to cerebral circulation, and the NICU's historical database allows for easy access to information vital for investigation. Participation in multicenter trials is another avenue the program supports for further enhancing research experience 9.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program offers considerable support for international medical graduates (IMGs) concerning visa applications. It sponsors J-1 visas for eligible candidates and permits those with permanent resident or alien status to apply 2. Applicants must have completed three years in an ACGME-accredited clinical pediatric residency program.

Accepted medical school backgrounds include graduates from Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) accredited U.S. and Canadian medical schools, graduates from AOA accredited osteopathic medical schools, and IMGs with valid ECFMG certificates 2.

Application Process

Applications are submitted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants are advised to complete their applications by early July to facilitate timely evaluation. The application should include a personal statement, a current CV, three letters of recommendation, and, if applicable, an ECFMG certificate 2.

Interviews are conducted virtually and are extended based on applicants' qualifications, reflected in USMLE scores and letters of recommendation 2.

Fellow Life and Benefits

The fellowship provides a competitive salary, alongside various benefits including healthcare insurance, educational leave, and access to recreational facilities. Trainees are entitled to three weeks of annual leave, three weeks of sick leave, and time off for educational purposes and family-related events like parental leave 10.

Competitiveness

The fellowship program is highly competitive and welcomes a variety of candidates, including DOs and IMGs who meet the application prerequisites. The comprehensive training and wide-ranging clinical exposure create a robust environment for developing future neonatologists 8.

Educational Activities

The fellowship includes an extensive range of educational activities, including neonatal resuscitation courses, monthly conferences on neonatal-perinatal topics, M&M conferences, journal clubs, and collaborative workshops with other subspecialties 6. These activities reinforce the fellows' knowledge base and prepare them for independent practice as neonatologists.

Memphis and Its Opportunities

Located in Memphis, the fellowship provides access to a vibrant cultural and academic environment, known for its diversity and healthcare hub status. Fellows benefit not only from the training and educational opportunities but also from living in a city rich in music, history, and lifestyle options 11.