University of Utah Health Program

Overview of the Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship

The Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship at the University of Utah is recognized as a leader in pediatric critical care, providing services to children across the Intermountain West. Established in 1988, this fellowship trains participants to be exceptional clinicians capable of excelling in diverse areas including research, education, quality improvement, and administration. The program's commitment to personal wellness and academic excellence ensures a supportive learning environment for each fellow 1.

With a robust faculty composed of over 30 clinical and research specialists, fellows are exposed to a wide variety of critical care scenarios, gaining experience in treating both common and rare critical illnesses using advanced medical technologies.

Curriculum Structure

The fellowship curriculum is designed to develop clinical and scholarly skills essential for future academic success. Each fellow is paired with mentors and engages in scholarly activities that culminate in presentations at national conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals 1. This tailored approach allows fellows to pursue their individual interests in various sectors of pediatric medicine.

Clinical Experience

Fellows primarily train at the Primary Children’s Hospital, a state-of-the-art 270-bed facility that serves as the main PICU for five states. This hospital is known for its high-volume trauma, transplant, and cardiac surgery services 5. The clinical training involves extensive exposure to complex cases, including managing patients requiring ECMO, high-frequency ventilation, and continuous renal replacement therapies.

The PICU comprises a 28-bed unit, while an 18-bed Cardiac ICU accommodates specialized needs. During clinical rotations, fellows alternate between direct service roles and opportunities for independent research activities, following an ACGME compliant schedule that promotes work-life balance.

Research and Scholarly Opportunities

The Program emphasizes developing fellows' research skills through a structured scholarly program. Fellows engage in research projects within a variety of areas, supervised by a Scholarship Oversight Committee. The fellowship fosters a culture of academic inquiry, encouraging fellows to produce multiple scholarly works, many of which are presented at regional and national meetings 9.

Teaching and Mentoring Experience

Fellows receive comprehensive training in educational techniques, facilitating teaching opportunities with pediatric residents and medical students. They participate in lectures, small group discussions, and simulation training, designed to enhance their instructional skills 10. Through these experiences, fellows become adept educators, contributing to the next generation of medical professionals.

Administrative and Quality Improvement Training

A distinguishing feature of the fellowship is the robust training in administrative and quality improvement methodologies. Each fellow undertakes a quality improvement project tailored to their interests, gaining insight into effective administrative practices and health care delivery 2.

Conferences and Additional Learning

Fellows engage in a comprehensive conference schedule that includes weekly Pediatric Critical Care Medicine learning sessions, journal clubs, and case discussions. These activities are crafted to enhance knowledge and facilitate collaborative learning among peers 6.

Compensation and Benefits

The fellowship provides competitive compensation, which for the 2024-2025 fellowship year is set at $79,868, alongside benefits such as paid vacation days, medical insurance, and professional development funds. Fellows may also benefit from educational discounts, enabling them to pursue additional graduate coursework 8.

Application Process and Requirements

Applicants to the fellowship must submit their applications through ERAS, including documentation such as a CV, medical school transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Notably, the program ensures equitable access for applicants with disabilities and encourages international medical graduates to apply, provided they hold ECFMG certification and a J-1 visa 4.

Visa and Competitiveness

The program welcomes applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, including DOs and IMGs. However, it is considered competitive, with a significant review process guiding decision-making 4. The fellowship’s supportive atmosphere aims to foster candidates’ growth and success in the specialty.