University of Tennessee Program

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship program offered at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis is designed for graduates who have completed an ACGME accredited residency in either pediatrics or emergency medicine. This comprehensive three-year program meticulously prepares fellows for clinical and academic careers in pediatric emergency medicine. The fellowship emphasizes both hands-on training and scholarly research, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.

The primary training site for this fellowship is Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, a renowned Level 1 pediatric trauma center that serves as a comprehensive regional hub for pediatric care in the Mid South. Le Bonheur Children's Hospital consistently ranks among the best children's hospitals in the nation, recognized for its excellence in patient care, especially its high-level neonatal intensive care unit and pediatric trauma services, with over 100,000 patient visits annually 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is structured to provide robust clinical exposure and includes diverse rotations in various subspecialties of pediatrics and emergency medicine. The rigorous training ensures that fellows gain experience in a high-volume emergency department, experiencing high acuity cases and participate as initial team leaders in trauma situations. The fellows are integrated into the emergency department operations, functioning as junior attending physicians and collaborating with board-certified pediatric emergency medicine faculty who have a diverse range of interests and expertise 2.

Research Opportunities

Research is a significant component of the fellowship program. Fellows are expected to engage in a scholarly work that complements their clinical responsibilities. The program actively supports research initiatives that explore innovative applications of bedside ultrasonography in pediatric emergency settings and other areas pertinent to pediatric care, such as pediatric trauma, sedation techniques, and clinical procedures 3. This focus on research equips fellows with critical analytical skills essential for academic careers.

Training Environment

The training environment at Le Bonheur is characterized by a focus on quality patient care, education, and research. Fellows have access to a variety of state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including simulated training scenarios which enhance their practical skills. Moreover, the program encourages fellows to carve their own academic pathways while maintaining strong collaborative relationships with various pediatric subspecialties, ensuring a holistic training experience 4.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates, the program provides support for visa sponsorship, specifically for the J-1 Visa. It is imperative to have ECFMG certification to apply, and it will not consider any other visa types for the fellowship 2.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship program is considered highly competitive. It attracts applicants from a range of backgrounds, including US graduates as well as international medical graduates. Applicants are required to have passed USMLE Steps 1 and 2, and completion of Step 3 is essential before commencing the fellowship. A personal statement, medical school transcripts, CV, and letters of recommendation, including one from the current program director, are essential components of a complete application 5.

Salary and Benefits

Fellows receive a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive salary rates as per ACGME-accredited programs. Additional benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as support for educational resources and recreational facilities. The program provides annual leave, sick leave, and educational leave for professional development 6.

Fellow Life

The program promotes a balanced lifestyle, supporting interests outside of medicine. Current fellows often highlight the sense of community and camaraderie within the fellowship, with opportunities to engage in activities that promote well-being and professional networking 3.