MaineHealth Program

The MaineHealth Maine Medical Center (MHMMC) Surgical Critical Care Fellowship is a one-year ACGME-accredited program designed to provide advanced training in surgical critical care. This fellowship is particularly focused on developing clinical skills and research expertise in a multidisciplinary environment. The program emphasizes comprehensive training in the management of critically ill surgical patients, aligning closely with the overarching mission of MaineHealth to enhance community health across the region.

Program Overview

The fellowship offers rigorous clinical training led by board-certified specialists in medicine, surgery, and anesthesia. With an average of 18 surgical critical care patients managed daily, fellows gain extensive hands-on experience in a high-acuity setting. Upon successful completion, fellows are eligible for board certification in surgical critical care, marking a key milestone in their professional development.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Surgical Critical Care Fellowship spans various critical care settings and includes:

• 34 weeks of surgical intensive care
• 8-10 weeks of surgical elective service based on fellows’ interests
• 2-4 weeks in cardiovascular intensive care
• 2-4 weeks in neurocritical care
• 2-4 weeks in medical intensive care

Educational activities also comprise regular conferences, including a core curriculum series, critical care research discussions, journal clubs, and multidisciplinary case presentations, all designed to enhance fellows’ clinical knowledge and collaborative skills.

Training Sites

The fellowship primarily takes place at MHMMC, the only Level 1 Trauma Center in Maine and a cornerstone of healthcare in the region. The institution is renowned for its comprehensive stroke care, further broadening the learning experience for fellows. In addition, the fellowship provides opportunities at the cardiovascular teaching program, permitting enrichment in neurological and cardiovascular critical care.

Faculty Support

The fellowship features a dedicated faculty composed of experienced professionals who are committed to mentoring fellows through their training process. The faculty members play a vital role in shaping the educational experience, ensuring robust support and guidance throughout the fellowship year.

Competitiveness and Application Details

The program supports one fellowship position annually, making it competitive. Candidates must have completed three years of general surgery residency training and apply through the Surgical Critical Care and Acute Care Surgery Fellowship Application Service (SAFAS). Interviews will be conducted virtually, reinforcing the program’s commitment to adaptability and accessibility.

Specific application requirements include:

• Completion of a general surgery residency
• Submission of a curriculum vitae, personal statement, USMLE transcript, ABSITE transcript, and three letters of recommendation

MHMMC can only sponsor J visas for international medical graduates (IMGs), which is an essential consideration for prospective applicants.

Resident/Fellow Well-Being

The program prioritizes the mental and physical well-being of its fellows, recognizing that personal health is pivotal for effective learning and patient care. Resources are readily available to support fellows in maintaining a work-life balance throughout their training.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

MaineHealth and MHMMC are dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment that promotes respectful and supportive interactions. This commitment is integral to the educational philosophy of the fellowship, ensuring every candidate feels welcome and valued.

Life in Portland

Fellows will enjoy living in Portland, known as the “Jewel by the Sea.” The city provides a vibrant urban environment complemented by natural beauty and recreational opportunities, enriching the fellowship experience beyond clinical training.