STATEMENT OF PEDIATRIC FELLOWSHIP TRAINING

Abstract

In 1990, the Federation of Pediatric Organizations adopted a statement on pediatric fellowship training.1 This revised statement represents the current position of the federation regarding the purpose and objectives of fellowship training. The federation continues to support the concept that "the principal goal of fellowship training should be the development of future academic pediatricians." Within academic and teaching centers, there is a need for master clinicians, skilled teachers, and productive investigators who conduct research with varied interests. Graduates of pediatric fellowship programs should be proficient in both direct and consultative clinical care, teaching, and a selected area of research. Thereafter, differentiation of interests and activities should be expected and encouraged, but graduates of the fellowship programs in all settings should continue their involvement in research, whether collaborative or direct, to add to the body of knowledge in their area of interest. The following guidelines for fellowships are recommended: 1. Fellowship training should prepare pediatricians to care for children with complex problems within their areas of special expertise and to serve as consultants. Fellows should participate directly in the care of patients and should serve as consultants, with guidance and supervision provided by senior clinical mentors. 2. Fellowship training should include the development of skills as an educator, including presentation skills, curriculum development, and evaluation. Fellows should participate in the education of pediatric residents and the continuing education of practicing pediatricians. 3. Each fellow should have a mutually agreed on research mentor(s). It is essential for the fellow to have mentor(s) capable of fostering the trainee's career development.