Vanderbilt University Medical Center Program
Location:
Nashville, TNSpecialty:
Developmental-behavioral pediatricsACGME Code:
3364713031The Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center is designed to train highly competent Developmental Pediatricians who are fully equipped to care for children with special healthcare needs. This program aims to prepare fellows for successful careers in a variety of settings, including community practice and academia. Notably, the program boasts a remarkable 100% pass rate for the Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Subspecialty Certification Exam, reflecting its commitment to excellence in medical education and training 1.
Fellows engage in rotations across several subspecialty clinics, enhancing their clinical experience in diverse areas such as child and adolescent psychiatry, pediatric neurology, genetics, adolescent medicine, and complex care. This multifaceted approach ensures that fellows gain comprehensive exposure to various aspects of developmental-behavioral pediatrics. Rotations are supplemented by teamwork with ancillary services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, audiology, and feeding therapy, asserting the interdisciplinary practice model embraced by the program 1.
Curriculum and Educational Structure
The fellowship curriculum is rigorously structured, including dedicated Wednesday afternoons as lecture times for the Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Fellowship. During these sessions, fellows are engaged in specialty-specific learning, which includes lectures from guest speakers, practice-based questions, and discussions of assigned readings. Topics may include important texts covering attachment theory and positive discipline, underlining the program's holistic learning philosophy 1.
Clinical Rotations and Specialty Clinics
Within the division, there are multiple subspecialty clinics that fellows may participate in, such as the Down Syndrome Clinic, NICU Follow-Up Clinic, motor impairment clinic, and a telemedicine clinic. Furthermore, a general developmental clinic is available throughout the week, allowing fellows to manage a variety of cases that enhance their clinical judgment and diagnostic capabilities. Close collaboration with psychology specialists is emphasized to ensure optimal evaluation and management strategies for children with developmental challenges 1.
Research Opportunities
The program encourages fellows to engage in research opportunities, fostering an environment where inquiry and innovation are highly valued. Research initiatives may cover various topics pertinent to developmental-behavioral pediatrics, allowing fellows to contribute to the evolving landscape of pediatric healthcare. Extensive support and resources for research projects are available, promoting academic and professional growth 1.
Visa Support and Types
The program offers substantial visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to apply, with the capability to sponsor various visa types such as the J-1 and H-1B visas. This facilitates the inclusion of diverse candidates from across the globe who meet the program's eligibility criteria and wish to pursue a fellowship in Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics at Vanderbilt 1.
Competitive Landscape and Application Requirements
Applications for the fellowship are considered competitive, and the program values candidates who demonstrate a commitment to advancing the field of developmental pediatrics. Special application requirements may include the year of graduation, and there may be restrictions on the maximum number of failed Step exams permitted for potential applicants. These measures help ensure that the selected fellows possess the requisite qualifications and readiness for the demands of the fellowship 1.
Team Environment and Fellow Characteristics
The Division of Developmental Medicine prides itself on a collegial and dynamic team atmosphere, where fellows are expected to contribute actively to the collective mission of improving outcomes for children with developmental disabilities. Those who join this program are encouraged to be dedicated, proactive, and passionate about making a significant impact in the lives of their patients 1.
Website
Director
Angela C Maxwell-Horn, MDAssistant Professor of Pediatrics Appointed Since July 2017Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$77,610First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Nashville, TN
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Nashville, TN
- Crime Rate and Safety: Nashville has a moderate crime rate, with some areas experiencing higher crime than others. It is important to stay informed about the safety of different neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous live music venues and events throughout the city. There are also parks, museums, and a variety of dining options to explore.
- Climate: Nashville experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and mild winters. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant times of the year.
- Races and Population: Nashville is a diverse city with a mix of different races and cultures. The population is growing steadily due to its popularity as a place to live and work.
- Education: Nashville is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Nashville is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in the US, but housing costs have been increasing in recent years.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like Memphis (about 3 hours drive) and Atlanta (about 4 hours drive) are within a reasonable driving distance from Nashville. Each city offers its own unique attractions and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Rich music and cultural scene, diverse population, moderate cost of living compared to other big cities.
- Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, housing costs are rising, traffic can be congested during peak times.
Interview Questions
