University of Virginia Medical Center Program
Location:
Charlottesville, VASpecialty:
Pulmonary disease and critical care medicineACGME Code:
1565121085The University of Virginia Medical Center Program in Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine offers a comprehensive three-year fellowship designed to equip fellows with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required in the specialties of pulmonary medicine and critical care. This program is structured to foster both clinical and research competencies, tailored to the fellow's individual interests.
Program Structure
The fellowship includes extensive clinical training across multiple rotations, highlighting the multidisciplinary approach of the program. Fellows are involved in an array of clinical experiences, primarily through the Medical Intensive Care Unit (ICU), outpatient clinics, and various subspecialty areas. The structure provides a robust background necessary for managing critically ill patients and encountering diverse pulmonary conditions.
Clinical Rotations
Fellows spend significant time in different clinical settings:
- Consultation Service: A minimum of four months is dedicated to the pulmonary consultation service, engaging with patients across various units including surgical and neurological ICUs.
- Medical ICU: Fellows will spend no less than six months overseeing patient care in the medical ICU, where they enhance their management skills under the supervision of board-certified critical care attendings.
- Outpatient Clinics: The program includes a continuity clinic where fellows manage a panel of patients, seeing them throughout their three years in fellowship.
Additionally, fellows can rotate through various subspecialty clinics such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension, providing exposure to both general and specialized patient care.
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship with dedicated time and resources for fellows wishing to pursue academic careers. The program supports a structured research track, allowing fellows to engage in basic and clinical medical research. Fellows are paired with a primary research mentor to guide their projects, where they can explore diverse interests ranging from genomic studies in lung disease to educational curriculum development.
Mentorship and Professional Development
Each fellow is assigned a mentor upon entering the program to aid in professional development. The program emphasizes collaboration and encourages fellows to develop their career plans early on. Regular feedback and structured opportunities for networking and skills development are integral parts of the fellowship experience.
Educational Environment
The program fosters a culture of excellence and accountability while prioritizing health and wellness. Weekly conferences, including Pulmonary Grand Rounds and case conferences, provide forums for education on evolving topics in pulmonary and critical care medicine and for formative discussions regarding patient cases.
Application Process & Visa Support
The program encourages a diverse applicant pool and receives approximately 450 applications annually, extending invitations to 60 candidates for interviews. Interviews are conducted virtually. Applicants must have completed an accredited residency within the last five years. The program sponsors J1 visas for international medical graduates but does not sponsor H1B visas. Applicants must possess a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certificate.
Competitiveness
Admission to the fellowship is competitive, and the program actively seeks both U.S. and international applicants. The selection process emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, aiming to enrich the educational experience for all participants.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$69,440First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
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
