University of Virginia Medical Center Program
Location:
Charlottesville, VASpecialty:
Critical care medicine (Anesthesiology)ACGME Code:
0455104086Overview of the Critical Care Medicine Fellowship
The University of Virginia Medical Center offers an ACGME-accredited Critical Care Medicine Fellowship under the Anesthesiology Department. This one-year fellowship is designed for physicians who have completed training in Anesthesiology or Surgery, aiming to develop skills in critical care medicine. The fellowship emphasizes a comprehensive clinical and didactic experience in a variety of critical care settings.
1The program integrates core clinical experiences in specialized ICUs, including:
- Surgical-Trauma Intensive Care Unit (STICU)
- Thoracic-Cardiovascular Surgical Intensive Care Unit (TCVICU)
- Neuroscience Neuro Intensive Care Unit (NNICU)
Curriculum Structure
The fellowship comprises nine months of core rotations, including these specialized ICUs, followed by three months of elective rotations. Elective options span medical intensive care as well as pediatric ICUs. Additionally, non-ICU electives are available such as cardiology, pulmonology, infectious diseases, and critical care nutrition, providing fellows the opportunity to tailor their training based on personal interests.
1A robust didactic curriculum accompanies the clinical training, emphasizing:
- System-based pathophysiology
- Ultrasound training
- Journal clubs
- Problem-based learning
- Board exam preparation
- Morbidity and mortality conferences
- Simulation training
Fellows learn critical skills necessary for effective management of ICU environments and conduct quality improvement projects throughout their training.
1Research Opportunities
Research component is an integral part of the fellowship, with each fellow expected to complete at least one academic project under faculty mentorship. The faculty boasts diverse expertise in various areas of critical care, fostering a supportive atmosphere for research pursuits.
1Application Requirements and Competitiveness
The selection process for the fellowship is competitive, accepting up to four fellows annually through the San Francisco Match. Applicants must demonstrate board eligibility in Anesthesiology or Surgery. While the program is open to DO and IMG candidates, it maintains high standards for selection, including the requirement for three letters of recommendation and relevant educational qualifications.
2Visa Support
The program provides sponsorship for the J-1 and H-1B visa types for eligible international applicants. This aims to ensure that international medical graduates can participate in the fellowship without visa-related challenges.
1Clinical Training Locations
The University of Virginia Health System serves as a primary training site, a Level I trauma center and tertiary referral center serving central Virginia and surrounding areas. The critical care fellowships leverage various hospital resources to provide a rich learning experience in different environments, including:
- 15-bed STBICU
- 18-bed TCVICU
- 12-bed NNICU
Educational and Professional Development
Meaningful engagement in preservation of best practices, ethics, and educational methodologies are focal points of the program. Fellows are expected to lead teaching rounds and participate in the simulation training at the UVA Medical Simulation Center, a comprehensive facility that enhances practical learning.
1The program also emphasizes collaborative learning through joint lectures with fellows from other institutions, facilitating exposure to broader ideas and practices in critical care medicine.
1Living in Charlottesville
Beyond the academic rigors, fellows benefit from a vibrant living environment in Charlottesville, known for its scenic beauty and cultural richness. The lifestyle in this area contributes significantly to a well-rounded fellowship experience.
1Website
Director
Danny J Theodore, MDProgram Director, Anesthesiology and Critical Care Fellowship, Director of Respiratory Therapy Appointed Since October 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$74,725First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Charlottesville, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville, VA, is a charming city located in central Virginia. Here's a breakdown of various aspects of living in Charlottesville:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Charlottesville generally has a moderate crime rate with a focus on property crimes. It is always recommended to be cautious in any city.
- Fun Activities: Charlottesville is known for its historical sites, vineyards, and outdoor activities like hiking in Shenandoah National Park. There are also cultural events, music festivals, and a thriving food scene.
- Climate: Charlottesville experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and mild winters. Fall is particularly beautiful with the changing colors of the leaves.
- Races and Population: Charlottesville has a diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities contributing to its vibrant community.
- Education: Charlottesville is home to the University of Virginia, which brings a strong academic and intellectual atmosphere to the city.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Charlottesville is slightly above the national average, mainly due to housing costs. However, compared to big cities, it is still relatively affordable.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Washington, D.C., is around 2 to 3 hours away by car, and Richmond, VA, is about an hour and a half away. Both cities offer more extensive cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities.
Interview Questions
