Are you a small, medium or large program?
We are a medium to large-sized program with 72 categorical pediatric residents, 24 internal medicine/pediatric residents, and two preliminary pediatric residents.

Where do you draw your residents from?
Residents in our program come primarily from Midwest medical schools; however we currently have residents representing 42 different medical schools spread in more than 25 states and two countries.

What careers do your residents choose after training?
It varies from year to year. Approximately 50% of our graduating residents pursued subspecialty fellowships in 2010. Our residents are known for being well trained and we have placed many residents into the fellowships of their choice. In 2011, we had more residents entering general pediatrics, including general academic pediatrics, primary care, and the growing field of urgent care, and hospitalist medicine.

What research opportunities exist?
Although we do not require a research project to graduate from our program, many of our residents participate in research during their residency. We are extremely proud of the incredible research being performed by our residents. Please see our research page for ongoing projects.

The BRNSTRM project is an innovative way to bridge residents interested in research with the faculty best able to mentor them. We have a research elective opportunity for residents to pursue their projects under the guidance of their mentors.

Can I see an example contract?
Yes, view a sample resident contract (pdf).

Are there yearly resident retreats?
Yes - we have yearly retreats for each class. The first- and second-year retreats combine advocacy, education and fun. The third year retreat is a great social escape for the senior residents. 

Are you a free standing children's hospital?
Yes - Children's Mercy Hospital is a 300-plus bed free standing children's hospital with every possible subspecialty represented. We are a Level 1 trauma center and a Level 3C neonatal ICU with ECMO capability. We have a 42-bed pediatric ICU with an active congenital heart program. We are also consistently ranked as one of the top places to work and are the number one recipient of philanthropic support in Kansas City. We will be opening another in-patient tower in the fall of 2012 that expands our PICU, NICU, Hem/Onc, and Med/Surg by 73 beds. The new tower includes a fetal health center, a new cancer center, two specially equipped rooms to provide care for ECMO patients, and the Lisa Barth Interfaith Chapel and Garden.

How many pediatric faculty members do you have?
There are more 300 faculty members in the Department of Pediatrics, making it the largest department at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. The faculty are enthusiastic, dedicated to resident education, and represent every pediatric subspecialty.

Why would I want to move to Kansas City?
Kansas City is a friendly, accessible, and affordable place to live. The metro area has grown to more than 2 million people. The downtown area is invigorated with the Power and Light District and the adjacent Crossroads Arts District, and is home to unique restaurants, galleries, and loft apartments. The Plaza offers upscale outdoor dining and shopping and the famous Christmas Lights. There are several outstanding art museums and theaters as well as a thriving scene. Please see our About KC page for more information.

Are there opportunities for my spouse/significant other?
The headquarters for Hallmark, H&R Block, American Century, The Stowers Institute, Sprint, Cerner, AMC Theatres, DST Systems, Garmin International, Great Plains Energy, Russell Stover, Applebee's, and several other large companies are all located in Kansas City.