University of Tennessee/Le Bonheur Children's Hospital Program

Surgical Critical Care Fellowship Overview

The pediatric surgical critical care fellowship program at the University of Tennessee/Le Bonheur Children's Hospital aims to prepare fellows to function as highly qualified practitioners at an advanced level in surgical critical care. The fellowship is designed to enhance proficiency in managing critically ill pediatric surgical patients through comprehensive educational offerings that encompass both didactic instruction and practical skills development.

The curriculum includes in-depth education in the basic and clinical sciences relevant to pediatric surgical diseases and conditions, with a specific focus on procedural skills and techniques essential for functioning in intensive care settings.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is meticulously designed to offer an extensive range of educational experiences. Fellows engage in didactic lectures, hands-on instruction, and simulation training to reinforce learning and procedural competencies. Rotations are structured to ensure exposure to various aspects of surgical critical care, including trauma management.

Opportunities for research in trauma system improvement further enhance the educational experience, allowing fellows to engage in impactful projects that contribute to the field. Training may include rotations through affiliated institutions, providing a broader perspective on pediatric surgical critical care and the complexities of patient management.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship, with a strong emphasis on trauma system improvement initiatives. Fellows have access to a robust research infrastructure that supports clinical and translational research projects. They are encouraged to pursue individualized research interests, contributing to advancements in pediatric surgical care.

Fellows will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and gain mentorship from experienced faculty, enabling them to develop skills necessary for conducting high-quality research and scholarly activities. This research experience not only furthers the fellows' academic careers but also enhances clinical practices within pediatric surgical critical care.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The University of Tennessee/Le Bonheur Children's Hospital fellowship program is distinct in its commitment to nurturing leadership skills alongside clinical training. Fellows are part of a vibrant community of pediatric subspecialists, with abundant networking opportunities to foster collaboration and professional growth.

The program prioritizes a supportive learning environment that encourages fellows to share experiences, insights, and challenges. This community focus enhances the overall fellowship experience, fostering personal and professional development in future leaders of pediatric surgical care.

Training Sites

The fellowship primarily takes place at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, a recognized leader in pediatric healthcare. This facility, accredited as a Level 1 trauma center, offers a comprehensive array of services designed for critically ill children, supported by state-of-the-art technology and a dedicated staff.

In addition to Le Bonheur, fellows may participate in training at affiliated institutions, which can enrich their educational experience and expose them to a diverse patient population and medical challenges. This breadth of training is critical for developing the multifaceted skills required for a successful career in surgical critical care.

Visa Support and Requirements

The program provides visa support for international medical graduates and can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas. This openness to international participants enhances the diversity of the fellowship cohort, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.

Competitiveness

The University of Tennessee/Le Bonheur Children's Hospital fellowship program is regarded as highly competitive. Selection criteria focus on the applicant's clinical experience, academic achievements, and potential for contributing to the field of pediatric surgical critical care.

While the program fosters an inclusive environment and is friendly towards diverse backgrounds, including DO and IMG applicants, it is crucial for candidates to present a strong application that encompasses relevant experiences and commitment to the subspecialty.

Special Application Requirements

Applicants are expected to submit a complete application that may include specific requirements such as graduation year from medical school and passing scores on relevant board examinations. The program may also have a limit on the number of attempts on board exams, ensuring that candidates demonstrate a solid foundation in medical knowledge necessary for success in the fellowship.