Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center Program

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, in collaboration with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, is designed to train physicians to become proficient in the field of pediatric emergency medicine. This two to three-year fellowship aims to develop competent and compassionate leaders capable of providing expert care to acutely ill or injured children.

Program Overview

The fellowship program was first accredited by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education in 2007. Two positions are available each year for physicians completing residency training in either emergency medicine (EM) or pediatrics. For those completing an EM residency, the fellowship curriculum is structured over two years, while pediatric residency graduates undergo a three-year course. Most clinical training occurs in the 24-bed pediatric emergency department of Brenner Children's Hospital, a Level I trauma and burn center that serves approximately 37,000 pediatric patients annually 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum in the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship is carefully tailored to provide a comprehensive blend of clinical, research, and educational experiences. Fellows receive extensive hands-on training that prepares them not only in clinical practice but also in other critical areas relevant to pediatric emergency care.

Key components of the fellowship curriculum include: Quality improvement techniques, risk management protocols, detailed case reviews, and leadership development. Fellows are responsible for bedside teaching and lead didactic sessions for residents in fields such as pediatrics, emergency medicine, and family practice 3.

Electives and Additional Opportunities

Fellows have the option to pursue electives across various subspecialties in pediatrics and emergency medicine, allowing for a personalized training experience. This helps fellows gain exposure and insight into specific interests they may wish to explore further 1.

Research Opportunities

The program actively encourages fellows to engage in research projects under the guidance of a faculty that includes pioneers in emergency medicine. This involvement allows fellows to contribute to ongoing research initiatives while developing their abilities in critical analysis and scholarly inquiry 1.

Application Process

Admission to the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship is competitive. Applicants must apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and participate in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) subspecialty match. The application requires several documents, including USMLE or COMLEX scores, a CV, medical school transcripts, ECFMG certification (if applicable), a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation, including one from the residency program director 4.

Visa Support

The fellowship program offers visa support and sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates, making it accessible to a diverse group of applicants.

Competitiveness

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at Wake Forest University is considered highly competitive. The program welcomes a diverse group of candidates, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds, enhancing the richness of the training environment.

Program Benefits

Fellows enjoy numerous benefits, including a competitive salary based on the completed residency level, health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous CME budget, and access to long-term disability resources. Additionally, an Employee Assistance Program is available to provide support for fellows' well-being 1.

Faculty and Leadership

The fellowship program is supported by an esteemed faculty who play a critical role in developing the next generation of leaders in pediatric emergency medicine. The faculty comprises highly qualified professionals engaged in impactful research and active in statewide emergency medical services 5.

Conclusion

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at Wake Forest University offers a comprehensive, rigorous training experience for individuals looking to become leaders in the field of pediatric emergency medicine. By combining extensive clinical training, research opportunities, and strong faculty support, the program is committed to fostering the development of expert pediatric emergency physicians.