University of Utah Health Program
Location:
Salt Lake City, UTSpecialty:
Regional anesthesiology and acute pain medicineACGME Code:
0464904001Overview of the Fellowship Program
The University of Utah Health's Regional Anesthesiology and Acute Pain Medicine (RAAPM) Fellowship is a one-year, ACGME-accredited training program designed to provide extensive exposure to various facets of regional anesthesia and acute pain management. The program is renowned for its commitment to developing skilled practitioners in the field of anesthesiology, particularly in regional techniques and pain management strategies.
The fellowship accepts four ACGME-accredited positions annually and is structured to encompass a comprehensive array of educational experiences, allowing fellows to gain profound skills in managing both acute and chronic pain patients.
Curriculum and Rotations
The fellowship curriculum includes several rotations aimed at covering critical components of regional anesthesia and acute pain management:
1. Regional Anesthesia
Fellows primarily rotate through the University of Utah Hospital (UH), the University of Utah Orthopedic Center (UUOC), and the Huntsman Cancer Hospital (HCH). They will develop expertise in neuraxial blocks, peripheral nerve blocks, continuous catheters, and truncal procedures.
2. Acute Pain Medicine
This rotation takes place mainly at UH, HCH, and the Salt Lake VA Hospital (VA). Fellows manage surgical and nonsurgical acute pain patients, gaining exposure to various pain management modalities, including medication management and advanced procedural techniques.
3. Operating Room (OR)
Fellows continue to practice anesthesiology skills in the OR, maintaining a connection with clinical anesthesia. There is a particular focus on developing perioperative pain strategies while completing cases.
4. Pediatric Regional Anesthesia
Based at Primary Children’s Medical Center (PCMC), this rotation allows fellows to learn about pain management protocols pertinent to pediatric patients undergoing surgery.
5. Chronic Pain Medicine
This rotation at HCH and the Chronic Pain Clinic (CPC) provides fellows with the chance to engage with board-certified specialists in managing chronic pain patient interventions, particularly for those with cancer pain.
Educational and Research Opportunities
Fellows benefit from various educational opportunities including:
- Daily instruction and mentorship from RAAPM faculty
- Weekly didactic lectures and monthly anatomy lab sessions
- Lectures focusing on addiction medicine and special case conferences
- Participation in a Regional Anesthesia Journal Club
These activities aim to foster both professional development and ongoing research collaboration among fellows, further enhancing the fellowship experience.
Living in Utah
Located in Salt Lake City, the fellowship provides an excellent quality of life and easy access to numerous outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. Many faculty members choose to stay in Utah long-term, which is indicative of a supportive and pleasant working environment.
Benefits and Compensation
The fellowship offers a competitive annual salary and includes benefits such as:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Three weeks of vacation
- One week of personal/professional time
- One week for conferences (ASRA, ASA, etc.)
- Education and conference stipends
- Internet reimbursement, and options for discounted mobile services
Fellows have the opportunity to moonlight, which can significantly augment their income without compromising the fellowship's educational objectives.
Application Process
To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must follow a structured application process including:
- Registration and submission through the San Francisco Match (SF Match)
- Three letters of recommendation (at least one from a residency Program Director)
- A detailed personal statement and CV
- USMLE transcripts and medical school transcripts
- ECFMG certification for international medical graduates, where applicable
Visa Support
The program offers support for candidates requiring visa sponsorship, ensuring access to J-1 and H-1B visa types for eligible international applicants.
Competitiveness and Requirements
The fellowship is noted for being highly competitive. It welcomes applications from both MD and DO candidates, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). Notably, the program does not impose strict requirements on the year of graduation or a maximum number of failed Step exams, thus opening pathways for diverse candidates.
Website
Director
Jacob E Pollard, MDAssistant Professor (Clinical) Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$80,713First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Salt Lake City, UT
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Salt Lake City, UT
- Crime Rate and Safety: Salt Lake City has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major U.S. cities. The city is generally safe, but like any urban area, it's advisable to take precautions, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Salt Lake City offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities thanks to its proximity to mountains and national parks. Residents can enjoy skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The city also has cultural attractions like museums, theaters, and a vibrant dining scene.
- Climate: Salt Lake City has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with snowfall in winter and warm temperatures in summer.
- Races and Population: Salt Lake City has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
- Education: Salt Lake City offers excellent educational opportunities with top-ranked schools and universities in the area. Residents have access to quality education from elementary school through higher education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Salt Lake City is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in the U.S. Housing costs, utilities, and groceries are generally affordable, although prices have been increasing in recent years.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Salt Lake City is a few hours' drive away from larger urban centers like Las Vegas (about 6 hours), Denver (about 8 hours), and Phoenix (about 10 hours). This allows residents to take weekend trips to explore these cities.
- Pros: Outdoor recreational opportunities, diverse population, good educational options, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Cold winters, potential air quality issues, some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates.
Interview Questions
