UPMC Medical Education Program
Location:
Pittsburgh, PASpecialty:
Pediatric infectious diseasesACGME Code:
3354111049The Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh offers a comprehensive training experience designed to prepare fellows for both clinical and academic careers in pediatric infectious diseases. The program spans three years and is ACGME-accredited, emphasizing a well-rounded approach to both clinical practice and research.
Curriculum Overview
The fellowship curriculum is diverse, covering numerous essential areas: clinical infectious diseases, transplant and immunocompromised infectious diseases, bench and basic science research, quality improvement, antimicrobial stewardship, infection prevention, clinical epidemiology, and medical education. These components are structured to foster both theoretical understanding and practical skill development in the fellows' respective areas of interest 1.
Clinical Training
Clinical training takes place at a variety of sites within the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and other UPMC hospitals. Fellows gain exposure to a wide breadth of clinical scenarios, which is critical for developing the expertise needed to navigate complex infectious diseases in pediatric patients 1.
Didactics and Conferences
Fellowship training includes various didactic sessions designed to enrich learning. Notable conferences include:
- Fellows Teaching Conference: This fellow-run conference occurs weekly and addresses the curriculum for the Pediatric Infectious Diseases subspecialty board exam.
- Journal Club: Held bi-monthly, this conference involves the critical review of recent literature in the infectious disease field.
- Case Conference: Weekly conferences present educational cases from the inpatient consult team, allowing fellows to engage in meaningful discussions.
- Infectious Diseases Grand Rounds: Collaboratively held with the adult infectious disease division at UPMC, these meetings encompass didactic discussions on infectious disease cases, guidelines, and emerging issues such as epidemic crises 2.
Research Opportunities
Research is a core component of the fellowship, with a range of clinical, bench, and translational research opportunities available under the guidance of experienced mentors. The program also encourages fellows to extend their research activities to a fourth year if they desire, facilitating a stronger focus on preparing for an academic career 1.
Meet Our Current Fellows
The fellowship emphasizes a supportive learning environment. Current fellows come from diverse backgrounds and have unique interests within pediatric infectious diseases, including antimicrobial stewardship and mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance. Engaging with peers allows fellows to share experiences and insights that enrich their training 3.
Application Process
The application to the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship is through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and ERAS. Applicants must submit:
- Completed ERAS application
- Photograph
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement
- Dean's letter
- Medical school transcript
- USMLE Scores
- Letter of recommendation from the Pediatric Residency Program Director
- Two additional letters of recommendation
- ECFMG certificate for international graduates
- Copy of visa for international graduates
- Pediatric Residency Completion Certificate (upon entry to the program)
U.S. citizenship is not a requirement for application, and international graduates are encouraged to apply, with visa supports available for J-1 and H-1B visa types 4.
Competitiveness and Selection Criteria
The Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship is highly competitive, attracting applicants from various backgrounds, including DO and IMG candidates. The program values diverse experience and perspectives brought by international applicants and encourages all qualified physicians to apply 4.
Website
Director
Philana L Lin, MDAssociate Professor/Research Mentor/ Fellowship Program Director Appointed Since November 2013Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$74,523First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Pittsburgh, PA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Pittsburgh has a slightly higher-than-average crime rate compared to the national average. However, specific neighborhoods within the city vary in safety levels, so it's advisable to research the area where you'll be living.
- Fun Activities: Pittsburgh is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, sports events, numerous parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities along its three rivers.
- Climate: Pittsburgh experiences all four seasons, with cold winters, warm summers, and beautiful fall foliage.
- Races and Population: Pittsburgh is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The city has a population of around 300,000 people.
- Education: Pittsburgh is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Pittsburgh is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the US, particularly in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Pittsburgh is approximately a 5-hour drive from Philadelphia and a 6-hour drive from New York City. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences, entertainment, and employment opportunities.
- Pros: Vibrant arts and culture scene, affordable cost of living, beautiful outdoor scenery.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate in some areas, cold winters.
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