NICU fellowship and the total # of admission

[the chossen one]

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I am applying for neonatology this year and I interviewed at a program that I liked so much and I felt it is a good fit, but it has a low number of annual admissions, like ~400 compared to other programs with 700 or more.
I was wondering how important is that in a fellowship search? Thanks in advance.

 

[oldbearprofessor]

Would be helpful for you to find out the number of VLBW admissions. Also, if cardiac babies are admitted elsewhere, do you have a rotation to work with them? In general, 400 is low, but if it's high acuity may not be too bad. Other factors, including location, research, etc are more important.

 

[the chossen one]

Would be helpful for you to find out the number of VLBW admissions. Also, if cardiac babies are admitted elsewhere, do you have a rotation to work with them? In general, 400 is low, but if it's high acuity may not be too bad. Other factors, including location, research, etc are more important.

thank you for your answer. Well, the less than 26 weeks admissions is about 20% of total annual admissions. They do not have cardiac surgery or ECMO but fellows round one month a year at PCICU at an outlying facility. They do have a strong research. It is the only interview at desirable location for me and my family. I know ultimately it is my decision but any input is appreciated. Thank you.

 

[oldbearprofessor]

Go for it. Take a look at where their recent fellows have ended up and see if that's the type of setting you want to end up in. Family > VLBW admission count.

 

[the chossen one]

Go for it. Take a look at where their recent fellows have ended up and see if that's the type of setting you want to end up in. Family > VLBW admission count.

Thank you so much. That is very helpful 🙂