The current state of general paediatric fellowships in Canada

Abstract

Introduction The field of Paediatric Medicine has grown tremendously over the last two decades. Several niche areas of practice have emerged, and opportunities for focused training in these areas have grown in parallel. The landscape of ‘General Paediatric Fellowship’ (GPF) Programs in Canada is not well described; this knowledge is needed to promote standardization and high-quality training across Canada. This study explores the structure and components of existing GPFs in Canada and identifies the interest and barriers to providing such programs. Methods A questionnaire was created to explore the landscape of GPF Programs in Canada. Invitations to participate were sent to leaders of General Paediatric Divisions across Canada, with a request to forward the survey to the most appropriate individual to respond within their local context. Results A total of 19 responses (95%) representing 17 different Canadian universities were obtained. Eight universities offered a total of 13 GPF Programs in 2019, with one additional university planning to start a program in the coming year. Existing programs were variable in size, structure and curriculum. Most programs identified as Academic Paediatric Programs, with an overlap in content and structure between Academic Paediatrics and Paediatric Hospital Medicine programs. The majority of respondents felt there was a need for GPF Programs in Canada but cited funding as the most common perceived barrier. Conclusion A growing number of GPF Programs exist in Canada. Current fellowship programs are variable in structure and content. Collaboration between programs is required to advance GPF training in Canada.

Qualitative evaluation of the contribution of CanMEDS roles in the development of area of focused competence diplomas

“…One area that has had increasing interest lately is Pediatric Hospital Medicine (PHM), which is currently being offered through an increasing number of non-RCPSC accredited fellowship programs across Canada. 11 Current fellowship programs vary in their content and structure, however, have in common an enhanced focus on scholarship. 11 Given the lack of AFC programs that differentiate themselves significantly from Core Pediatrics in the scholar CanMEDS role, an AFC in PHM may add value in this area.…”

“… 11 Current fellowship programs vary in their content and structure, however, have in common an enhanced focus on scholarship. 11 Given the lack of AFC programs that differentiate themselves significantly from Core Pediatrics in the scholar CanMEDS role, an AFC in PHM may add value in this area. Collaborator competencies might be another unique contribution of an AFC in PHM, given the role of hospitalists in leading a care team through collaboration with multi-disciplinary professionals.…”