Community Oriented Resident Education (CORE)

The Pediatric Residency Program at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh proudly offers Community-Oriented Resident Education (CORE), an area of concentration in the pediatric training program that aims to train leaders in community health and child advocacy. Our goals for CORE residents are that they will: 1) Develop the personal and professional skills necessary to be effective leaders in community health; 2) Acquire the knowledge, skills and experience to partner effectively with communities in improving and advocating for child health; and 3) Gain clinical experience in the provision of compassionate and culturally competent care to the underserved.

Residents in CORE will be exposed to various learning opportunities and clinical experiences that will enhance their understanding of key community health issues, such as health disparities, cultural competence and health policy. They complete all of the requirements of pediatric residency, but spend more time working in community settings during their training. The weekly continuity clinic during all three years is in a community-based health center, most of which are in urban underserved areas. An experience in rural health care occurs during the PL-2 year, and CORE residents are encouraged to take elective time during the PL-3 year to explore other aspects of child, family and community advocacy. Many residents spend time in international health experiences and/or in the Indian Health Service. CORE residents complete a community advocacy project in collaboration with community leaders, faculty and other residents

CORE residents have pursued a wide range of careers upon graduation, including work in the Indian Health Service, rural primary health care, primary health care for urban indigent children, hospitalist positions and fellowship training in a variety of pediatric subspecialties.

We welcome your interest and are happy to provide more information about the interests and accomplishments of the CORE residents and the program. A brief, separate application is required. Further information about applying for the CORE program will be available at the time of your interview.