University of Tennessee Program

The Pediatric Endocrinology Fellowship program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) is a highly structured, three-year program accredited by the ACGME and funded by Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. This fellowship focuses on nurturing the clinical, research, and teaching skills necessary to excel in pediatric endocrinology.

The fellowship primarily takes place at two leading healthcare institutions: Le Bonheur Children's Hospital and Regional One Health. Le Bonheur encounters over 1,200 in-patients and more than 5,000 outpatients annually, treating conditions primarily related to diabetes and other endocrine disorders 1. The program's multidisciplinary team includes seven board-certified pediatric endocrinology faculty, certified diabetes educators, licensed dietitians, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses, ensuring comprehensive support for clinical education.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is designed to provide extensive exposure to a variety of pediatric endocrine disorders, complemented by hands-on experience in clinical practice. Residents participate in a wide array of clinical rotations covering diverse conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and thyroid disorders.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellows to engage in research with the support of their mentors, fostering the development of novel interventions and treatments in pediatric endocrinology. Extramural funding is actively sought to enrich the research experience, increasing the potential for significant contributions to the field 1.

Training Sites

Fellows receive training at:

• Le Bonheur Children's Hospital: A top-ranked facility recognized for its high pediatric care standards that provides care for complex endocrine disorders and has received accolades for safety and effective treatment 1.
• Regional One Health: This level-1 trauma center offers unique experiences, including trauma care and services for underserved populations, thereby enhancing the fellow's clinical exposure 7.
• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: A globally recognized institution that specializes in pediatric cancer care and research, contributing to advances in the treatment of children with aggressive cancers 7.

Fellow Life

The fellowship program is committed to fostering a supportive and engaging environment for fellows. Social and professional events are regularly organized, including graduation celebrations and welcome parties, allowing fellows to build relationships and network with peers 8.

Benefits and Compensation

Fellows receive a competitive remuneration package that includes comprehensive health insurance options, life and disability insurance, and various benefits such as access to recreational facilities and educational resources 3. Leave policies provide flexibility, allowing fellows to take up to three weeks of annual leave and additional time for educational purposes or family matters 3.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Applications for the fellowship are accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and must include a personal statement, curriculum vitae, and three letters of recommendation. This program prefers applicants who have completed three years of clinical training in an ACGME-accredited pediatric residency program 2.

The program is highly competitive and welcomes applications from graduates of U.S. and Canadian medical schools, as well as international medical graduates with valid ECFMG certificates. Important to note, the program does not sponsor fellows for H-type visas, but offers sponsorship for J-1 visas and accepts individuals with permanent resident status 2.

Conclusion

Overall, the Pediatric Endocrinology Fellowship at UTHSC equips fellows with the skills necessary to become leaders in pediatric endocrinology clinical practice and research, supported by a highly qualified team and access to top-tier training facilities.