The Fellowship |
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The Fellowship program here at the University of Florida is designed to prepare the individual to be qualified to direct an intensive care unit following completion of the fellowship. While we don’t routinely advise that one start in that position, we certainly make sure that they are qualified to do so. It has been our experience over the last 20 years that it takes approximately 6-8 months to feel entirely comfortable with all the problems and issues faced with the care of critically ill surgical patients. However, in addition to learning the appropriate medical and technical skills, a number of other areas are addressed. We emphasize developing teaching skills. These include presentations in small and large conferences, and individual one-on-one sessions with residents and students. We strongly encourage and work with Fellows to develop slide presentations. We will work with and help the fellow to develop an appropriate way to present material using standard slides or in a Microsoft Powerpoint format.
The CCM fellow also must become skilled in dealing with all types of individuals who come through the intensive care unit. These include not only the attending physicians, but also family, consultants, and others. A considerable amount of time of the CCM physician is the daily interactions with the many people involved in each patient’s care. Excellent communication skills are honed and developed during this time. The fellowship program allows one to develop some skills in evaluating research projects and scientific papers. Fellows are expected to participate in clinical and lab studies during their fellowship year. It is expected that each fellow will be able to successfully complete at least one project worthy of presentation and publication.
