University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Program
Specialty:
Pediatric infectious diseasesACGME Code:
3354821053The program in Pediatric Infectious Disease at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center provides a comprehensive training in managing a wide spectrum of infectious diseases affecting children. The program emphasizes clinical service, education, and research, allowing fellows to engage deeply with both practical and theoretical aspects of pediatric infectious diseases.
Clinical Training
The Division manages an active in-patient consultation service and ambulatory services, treating over 700 infants and children annually at Parkland Hospital and William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital. Trauma and surgery-related infections, alongside those related to immunodeficiency (both inherited and acquired), are a focus area. The faculty has expertise in managing patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy and those thriving with complex medical history, including cancer and transplantation cases 1.Additionally, a significant part of the clinical training involves working at the HIV clinics associated with Children’s Health℠, providing care for HIV-infected and HIV-exposed children and adolescents 1.
Educational Opportunities
Medical students and pediatric residents are welcomed to engage in elective rotations, with opportunities to work under the guidance of fellows and faculty. These rotations help develop skills in differential diagnoses, appropriate laboratory tests interpretation, and understanding antibiotic management strategies. Students are assessed on various performance metrics such as case presentations and laboratory data interpretation 2.Fellowship in the program is highly competitive, and applicants are expected to hold either a permanent resident card or a J-1 Visa, or have passed the USMLE examination and be eligible for an ECFMG-sponsored visa 4.
Research Opportunities
The research landscape in the program is vibrant, with faculty engaged in numerous investigations that utilize modern molecular biologic techniques to address common clinical problems. Areas of research include studies on emerging pathogens, respiratory syncytial virus, and diagnostic studies related to congenital syphilis and pneumonia 6.Collaborative research opportunities exist, facilitating interaction with faculty from the Departments of Microbiology and Immunology, allowing fellows to tailor research projects to their specific interests 7.
Training Environment
The program has demonstrated success, with over 100 fellows completing training since its inception in 1965. Most of these graduates have entered academic positions at prominent institutions globally 4. The program structure includes daily clinical rounds and bi-weekly clinics, with approximately 60 inpatient consultations and 15-20 new outpatient consultations observed monthly 5.Faculty
The faculty comprises experts dedicated to training fellows, with structured input in areas of clinical and laboratory techniques crucial for practice in pediatric infectious diseases. The program director oversees the educational trajectory of fellows, ensuring exposure to relevant laboratory methods and procedures 3.Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program supports J-1 visas and offers pathways for international medical graduates to join the fellowship. The selection process is notably competitive, making it essential for prospective fellows to demonstrate a strong academic and clinical background, given the program’s global reputation and high standards 4.Website
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Director
Jeffrey S Kahn, MD, PhDProgram Director, Division of Infectious Diseases Appointed Since April 2010Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
50 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
16 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$76,493First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
1.7XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Dallas, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Dallas, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Dallas has both safe and less safe neighborhoods. It's essential to research the specific area where you plan to live to ensure safety.
- Fun Activities: Dallas offers a diverse range of activities such as museums, parks, sports events, vibrant nightlife, and delicious dining options.
- Climate: Dallas has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity during summer months.
- Races and Population: Dallas is a diverse city with a significant population of Hispanic, African American, and White residents.
- Education: Dallas is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities to residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Dallas is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the U.S. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Dallas is approximately a 4-hour drive from Houston and a 3-hour drive from Austin. Both cities offer unique cultural experiences and amenities.
- Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, affordable cost of living.
- Cons: Traffic congestion, humid summers, safety concerns in some neighborhoods.