University of Virginia Medical Center Program

Overview of the Program

The University of Virginia (UVA) offers a comprehensive fellowship in Regional Anesthesia and Acute Pain Medicine (RAAPM) under its Anesthesiology Department. This program prepares fellows for advanced clinical practice through a blend of immersive clinical experiences and robust educational curricula. The program provides both ACGME-accredited fellowship positions and clinical instructorships, allowing for diverse training pathways catering to individual career aspirations.

Clinical Training and Rotations

The RAAPM fellowship consists of intensive clinical training across multiple state-of-the-art facilities within the UVA Health System. Trainees will gain experience in:

• Main Hospital Campus: Engaging with a 32 operating room setup.
• Outpatient Surgical Center (OPSC): A well-equipped facility featuring 12 operating rooms.
• Orthopedic Center: A newly established center with 6 operating rooms dedicated to orthopedic procedures.

Fellows have the opportunity to integrate into the Acute Pain Service (APS), which provides care within the context of an 800-bed hospital, ensuring that they are well-versed in managing both medical and surgical patients.

Didactic Education

UVA's RAAPM fellowship emphasizes a well-rounded educational component to enhance clinical skills. The curriculum includes:

• Weekly Lectures: Covering a broad spectrum of topics vital to regional anesthesiology.
• Workshops: Focused on Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS), morbidity and mortality conferences, journal clubs, and practical simulations.
• Educational Events: Candidates are encouraged to participate in national conferences and meetings to foster professional networking and academic development.

Fellows are expected to undertake at least one major academic project during their fellowship, enhancing their research and academic writing skills.

Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on academic development where fellows are encouraged to engage in quality improvement projects and research initiatives relevant to the field. Each fellow is expected to contribute to at least one significant academic project during their training period.

Program Structure and Requirements

The fellowship has a structured timeline spanning one year, featuring ample opportunity for clinical exposure as well as non-clinical time dedicated to academic interests. The positions follow the standard academic schedule from July 1 to June 30, though alternate start dates may be available upon approval.

Application Protocols

Application to the RAAPM fellowship is facilitated through the SF Match. Candidates must be Board Eligible, having completed an ACGME-accredited anesthesiology residency to be considered. Key application documents include:

• Application Form
• Employment Information
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• Exams and Certifications
• Publications
• Personal Statement
• Required Supplemental Forms

Fellowship Position and Instructorship

The program offers two distinct fellowship tracks:

• ACGME-accredited Fellowship Positions: Two spots available focused on comprehensive RAAPM training.
• Clinical Instructorship: Two CI positions that incorporate additional operating room management duties.

Clinical instructors are compensated with a salary of $120,000 per year, alongside 22 days of vacation and potential supplemental compensation for additional shifts.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The UVA fellowship program is welcoming to international medical graduates (IMGs), providing appropriate visa support through sponsorship of J-1 or H-1B visa categories for eligible candidates. The program encourages a diverse applicant pool and is considered friendly towards DO applicants and IMGs, aiming to foster a collaborative training environment.

Unique Program Features

The University of Virginia's RAAPM fellowship is distinct in its integrative approach, emphasizing both clinical acumen and pedagogical excellence. The program is designed to cultivate future leaders in the field of regional anesthesia, with a focus on:

• Building robust professional relationships within the department and across allied health fields.
• Providing advisory opportunities and quality mentorship throughout the fellowship year.
• Encouraging active participation in both clinical operations and academic endeavors, effectively blending practice with education.

Overall, the UVA RAAPM fellowship program stands out for its commitment to comprehensive education, diverse clinical experiences, and a collaborative culture aimed at producing skilled anesthesiologists prepared for the modern healthcare landscape.