Rotations
The 36-month Fellowship in Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics comprises two years of required patient care activities and a third year of focused research endeavor. Specific rotations are outlined below.
Inpatient
2 months each year
This rotation is completed on the inpatient unit of the Kluge Children's Rehabilitation Center (KCRC). Emphasis is on the interdisciplinary evaluation and management of the severely, often multiply handicapped child. Management of chronic non-neurologic illness (e.g., cystic fibrosis, diabetes mellitus, failure to thrive) is required. Both primary care and supervisory roles will be fulfilled.
Outpatient
8-12 months
These rotations are completed in the various specialty clinics of the KCRC (cerebral palsy, myelomeningocele, neurodevelopmental, muscular dystrophy) and the high-risk neonatal follow-up clinic at the University of Virginia Medical Center. Trainees participate in the interdisciplinary diagnostic team process and the ongoing habilitation of children new to the system or already established and followed longitudinally. Coordination of total care of the patient and, in particular, close interaction with private pediatricians and other health practitioners throughout the local and state community, is emphasized. During the second year, fellows are encouraged to pursue particular areas of interest while working the outpatient clinic.
Pediatric Neurology
2-4 months
These rotations are completed on the inpatient and outservices of the Pediatric Neurology Division at the University Medical Center. Intensive exposure is provided to the more acute neurologic problems in childhood: differential diagnosis, special neurologic investigations, and acute management. Special exposure to the neurological assessment of metabolic, degenerative, and mass lesions is anticipated and a review of neuroanatomy and neuropharmacology is expected.
Pediatric Genetics
2-4 months
These rotations take place in the clinics and on the consultation service of the Division of Pediatric Genetics. Outpatient evaluations and inpatient consultations on children with inherited diseases and/or dysmorphic syndromes are stressed so that the fellow may acquire a systematic approach to dysmorphology and inborn errors of metabolism. The trainee will also develop familiarity with the specific indications and laboratory techniques for chromosome analysis, skin biopsy, fibroblast culture and enzyme assay, and metabolic screening.
Vacation
Four weeks annually: may be taken in minimum one-week blocks arranged at the beginning of each year.