Current Environment: Production

Here in the Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Enhancement, our overall goal is to prepare fellows for a prosperous academic career in Pediatric Otolaryngology. Our fellows will acquire the knowledge and skills to provide optimal care for patients with routine or complex medical and/or surgical conditions in all areas of Pediatric Otolaryngology. We will facilitate the development of patient evaluation, medical management and surgical intervention for both routine and complex cases. We will also provide opportunities for the fellows to explore and pursue research in the field of Pediatric Otolaryngology and/or other academic interests under department mentors. In addition, we provide an environment to encourage our fellows to commit to life-long learning through regular self-study, the review of up-to-date medical literature and attendance at national and international conferences.The fellows’ year of education is largely divided between clinical, surgical research, and teaching experience. 

Their clinical education is met through direct patient interaction in the outpatient clinics, on the inpatient floors, and via both inpatient and emergency room consultations. The management of the more complex clinical cases is taught through specialty clinics and associated multidisciplinary team meetings. At such meetings, the fellows both refine their presentation skills and lead group management discussions. 

The fellows’ surgical experience is very extensive and provides them with the opportunity for involvement in each field of airway, rhinology, otology and head and neck surgeries. A monthly on-call schedule is formulated to assure that each fellow receives an equal amount of leadership and training within the operating room. On the rotating week that the fellows are not assigned to surgical cases, they are assigned to elective outpatient clinics. 

The fellows’ teaching and educational skills are also developed through their guidance and clinical support of rotating residents, medical students and physician assistants. Due to the large volume of patients seen by the department of pediatric otolaryngology, the fellows’ educational calendar is very thorough and opportunities to learn are readily available in each clinical setting.