In this episode of Med Student Over Easy, hosts Kaitlin and Patricia are joined by guests, Janine Curcio and Rachel Munn, to discuss the evolving world of EMS fellowships. This insightful conversation sheds light on the diverse opportunities available for emergency medicine physicians interested in pre-hospital care. They explore the various areas within EMS, how med students can get involved early, and the benefits of pursuing a fellowship to supplement your clinical emergency medicine career.
Diversity in EMS
EMS fellowships offer a range of unique experiences for physicians who want to be more involved in fieldwork. From helicopter and air EMS to wilderness and tactical medicine; the options are vast. Whether you’re interested in fire rescue or disaster medicine, an EMS fellowship allows you to be the first on the scene, providing critical care outside the traditional hospital setting. For those interested in a more tailored experience, fellowships in EMS can also open doors to specialized roles such as medical director of an EMS system. This ACGME-accredited fellowship can supplement your clinical career and make you a well-rounded emergency physician.
Hands-On Opportunities and Early Involvement
If you’re a med student considering an EMS fellowship, there are several ways to start exploring this field during your training. Many hospitals have EMS committees where students can get involved. You can also participate in ride-alongs with EMS teams, which offer invaluable firsthand experience. Additionally, students can engage in quality improvement projects and research initiatives within their local EMS systems to show early interest and dedication to the field. Gaining this experience not only builds your skillset but can also open many doors for future career opportunities.
Choosing the Right Path in EMS
For those interested in academic emergency medicine, fellowships have become almost essential for securing a faculty position, especially in major academic centers. However, if you’re aiming for a career outside of big-city academic medicine, you might opt for medical directorship or mentorship in a smaller EMS system, instead of a full fellowship. Organizations like the National Association of EMS Physicians (NAEMSP) offer valuable courses and mentorship programs to guide your career. Whether you choose a fellowship or a different route, having the right guidance and experience will help you shape your career path in EMS.
Take-Home Points:
- EMS fellowships offer many subspecialties like air EMS, wilderness medicine, and disaster response. Explore what interests you!
- As med students, you can join EMS committees, do ride-alongs, and engage in research early on to show early interest and involvement.
- For some, an EMS fellowship can be key, depending on the end goal.
Post by Mikaela Brown
About Our Guests:
EMS and EM Faculty at the Univesity of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
Janine Curcio, DO
Community EM Physician and Assistant Medical Director for Columbus Fire and Washington Township, Columbus, OH
References:
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