University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Program

Welcome to the Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, associated with the American Family Children’s Hospital. This fellowship is designed to offer a robust clinical experience in pediatric anesthesia, with fellows receiving the first pick of cases. The American Family Children’s Hospital is a notable facility with 111 beds, including a 21-bed Pediatric ICU capable of ECMO, and a 24-bed Level IV surgical Neonatal ICU. Each year, approximately 7,250 cases are performed, spanning eight operating rooms and various off-site locations like hybrid cath labs and interventional radiology suites. Within this volume, about 150 pediatric cardiac surgical cases and 120 interventional cardiac procedures are conducted annually, providing fellows with unique exposure to complex cases and critical procedures.

The fellowship is small, with a cohesive group of 18 Pediatric Anesthesiologists who have diverse training backgrounds, fostering a supportive learning environment. The program emphasizes a structured academic curriculum that not only covers in-depth pediatric anesthesia knowledge but also focuses on preparing fellows for oral board examinations. Impressively, the program boasts a 100% board pass rate on both the ABA applied exam and the ABA pediatric certification exam.1

Engagement in clinical research is also a prominent aspect, with faculty involved in substantial research projects and national collaboratives. Additionally, the fellowship facilitates a funded international elective rotation, where fellows can participate in global trips, highlighting the program's commitment to broadening their educational horizons and practical experience.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship provides extensive training across various areas:

• General OR Experience: Fellows complete nine months in General Operating Rooms (OR), including cardiac and regional anesthesia.
• Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU): A three-week rotation where fellows actively participate in rounds and care for complex pediatric patients, with an emphasis on surgical and cardiac surgery populations.
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU): An optional two-week elective in the Level IV surgical NICU allows fellows to follow a surgical patient's journey from the NICU to the OR.
• Regional Anesthesia and Acute Pain Service: A four-week rotation focused on pain management techniques.

Academic time is allocated to allow fellows to study for board examinations and engage in scholarly activities, complemented by three weeks of vacation and one week designated for meetings.

Educational Programs

The program includes various educational opportunities that promote ongoing learning:

• Weekly Conferences: Regular departmental conferences, grand rounds, and case discussions.
• Pediatric Journal Club: Organized 2-3 times yearly to discuss recent literature in pediatric anesthesia.
• Simulation Sessions: Scheduled every 3-4 months to practice critical skills in a controlled environment.
• Oral Board Preparation: Organized sessions occur three times a year to help prepare fellows for board examinations.

Furthermore, fellows receive a $2,500 academic fund to support educational materials, meeting attendance, or board registration fees, along with access to essential textbooks.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship at the University of Wisconsin is highly competitive, welcoming applications from graduates of both MD and DO programs, as well as International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Interested candidates must utilize the San Francisco Match and submit a Central Application Service (CAS) application that includes three letters of reference. In-cycle interviews are conducted between February and May, catering to positions starting the subsequent year. Specific inquiries, including those about off-cycle applications, can be directed to the program management team.2

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified applicants, thus facilitating international candidates’ participation, including H-1B and J-1 visa types.

Quality of Life in Madison

Living in Madison, Wisconsin, known for its excellent quality of life, contributes significantly to the fellowship experience. The city has earned accolades as one of the healthiest and most secure places to live, showcasing a bike-friendly environment and a vibrant cultural scene. It is also a hub for technology startups, providing a stimulating atmosphere for young professionals.