Virginia Commonwealth University Health System Program
Location:
Richmond, VASpecialty:
Pediatric nephrologyACGME Code:
3285132088Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU's Pediatric Nephrology Fellowship Program is a three-year ACGME accredited training program that is designed to develop future academic pediatric nephrologists. The program is located in Richmond, Virginia, and offers extensive training in clinical nephrology, research methodologies, and personal and professional development opportunities for fellows.
Clinical Training
The fellowship provides a rich clinical training experience that entails over 100 treatments with acute peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis or continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) every year, alongside an average of 40-45 percutaneous renal biopsies. Fellows are also involved in overseeing a continuity clinic with their own panel of patients, contributing to nearly 6000 in-patient and out-patient visits in the previous year. The program also offers potential combined training opportunities in pediatric and internal medicine nephrology, enriching the fellows' skill set and experience.Research Training
Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship, with available opportunities in both the pediatrics and internal medicine nephrology divisions. Additionally, fellows can engage in basic science research within the VCU schools of Medicine, Nursing, and Dentistry. Each fellow will be paired with a mentor for guidance throughout their training, aiming for the completion of a research portfolio that prepares them for academic careers at the assistant professor level.Educational Conferences
The educational experience is further enhanced through a well-structured conference schedule consisting of various types of meetings including patient care conferences, transplant conferences, antenatal conferences, journal clubs, and more. Throughout their training, fellows will be provided opportunities to present at these conferences and learn skills necessary for planning and leading clinical and scientific meetings.Application Process
Applicants must submit their applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program participates in the National Residency Match Program (NRMP) and is committed to attracting high-caliber candidates with diverse backgrounds.Visa Support
The Pediatric Nephrology Fellowship at VCU offers visa sponsorship for eligible candidates, specifically for J-1 visas and H-1B visas, enabling international medical graduates (IMGs) to participate in the fellowship.Competitiveness and Selection Criteria
The program is highly competitive, welcoming applicants from various educational backgrounds, including DO and IMGs. In order to apply, candidates are typically required to have completed an accredited pediatric residency and to be eligible for licensure in Virginia. The program does not stipulate a maximum number of failed STEP exams, making it more accessible to a wider range of applicants, while emphasizing a holistic review of each applicant's experiences and achievements.Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
1, 1, 1 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2013
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
52hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,336First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
4Location
Richmond, VA
Population
226,610
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
34
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Richmond, VA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Richmond has a mix of safe and more concerning neighborhoods. It's advisable to research the specific area you'll be living in to ensure safety.
- Fun Activities: Richmond offers a thriving arts and culture scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, museums, historical sites, and a variety of dining options.
- Climate: Richmond experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity during the summer months.
- Races and Population: Richmond has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities enriching the city's character.
- Education: Richmond is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for continued learning and cultural activities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Richmond is relatively moderate compared to some other urban areas in the U.S.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Richmond is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away from bigger cities like Washington D.C. and Virginia Beach. These cities offer additional cultural and recreational opportunities.
- Pros: Diverse cultural scene, historical significance, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Varied neighborhood safety, hot and humid summers.
Interview Questions
