Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program

Program Overview

The Washington University/Barnes-Jewish Hospital/St. Louis Children’s Hospital (WashU/BJH/SLCH) Consortium Program in Pediatric Urology is a distinguished fellowship designed to train the next generation of specialists in the field of pediatric urology. The program is situated within the dynamic Kingshighway campus, where three state-of-the-art facilities—Washington University, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, and St. Louis Children’s Hospital—are in close proximity, facilitating a robust clinical and educational environment.1

This consortium offers a comprehensive curriculum and exposure to a wide range of urologic conditions affecting children, including congenital anomalies, urinary tract abnormalities, and various pediatric urologic surgeries. The faculty consists of experienced educators and clinicians dedicated to providing hands-on training and mentorship.

Curriculum

The educational structure of the program is designed to ensure a well-rounded training experience. The curriculum includes advanced clinical rotations, surgical training, and opportunities for research. Fellows engage in both inpatient and outpatient settings, managing a variety of pediatric urology cases. Each rotation emphasizes a combination of clinical management and surgical skills acquisition, enabling fellows to become proficient in treating complex urologic diseases in children.

In addition to clinical duties, there are structured didactic sessions, journal clubs, and case discussions that foster a collaborative learning atmosphere. The goal is to equip fellows not only with technical skills but also with critical thinking capabilities vital for pediatric urology practice.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

Fellows in the program will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of clinical rotations across multiple settings, including tertiary care centers and outpatient clinics. The rotations are structured to expose fellows to a diverse patient population and numerous urologic conditions.

The primary sites for clinical training include:

• St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Barnes-Jewish Hospital
• Washington University Pediatric Specialty Care

These facilities provide both the breadth and depth of clinical exposure, including management of urinary tract infections, serving children with congenital kidney abnormalities, addressing voiding dysfunction, and performing reconstructive urologic surgeries.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellows to engage in research activities, facilitating exposure to both clinical and translational research projects. Fellows may have access to resources and expertise within the Washington University School of Medicine, enabling them to participate in ongoing studies or initiate their own projects.

Research training is essential for fellows to contribute to the scientific community, ultimately improving pediatric urology practices through evidence-based medicine. The program supports fellows in presenting their research at national meetings and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The WashU/BJH/SLCH consortium distinguishes itself through its collaborative approach, combining education, clinical training, and research. Emphasis is placed on mentorship, with fellows being guided by expert faculty throughout their training journey. Networking opportunities within the large research community also enhance the learning experience.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates (IMGs) pursuing fellowship training in pediatric urology. Specifically, the program supports J-1 and H-1B visa applications, making it accessible for qualified candidates worldwide. This commitment reflects the program's dedication to attracting a diverse cohort of fellows, enriching the training environment.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The WashU/BJH/SLCH Pediatric Urology Fellowship is regarded as highly competitive. Applicants are encouraged to have completed a residency in urology or a related field, with strong academic credentials and clinical experience. The program typically expects candidates to have passed all requisite examinations and demonstrates proficiency in the English language.

Specific application requirements may include:

• A completed application form
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Curriculum vitae

Lastly, while there are no strict limits on the number of failed examinations, strong performance on Step exams is advisable to enhance an applicant's competitiveness.