The 91小黄车 has launched a new Child Abuse Pediatrics (CAP) Fellowship Program through its Office of Graduate Medical Education, advancing its commitment to protecting vulnerable children and training leaders in this critical subspecialty.
UK鈥檚 pediatric forensic medicine division already serves as a statewide hub for comprehensive child maltreatment evaluation and care. Its multidisciplinary team includes four board-certified child abuse pediatricians, nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, psychologists and sexual assault nurse examiners who provide trauma-informed, evidence-based care for children and families.
The need for specialists in this field is profound. Kentucky has one of the highest child maltreatment rates in the nation, with more than 12 per 1,000 children affected annually. Each year, between 10 and 15 Kentucky children die as a result of abuse or neglect, and many more endure lifelong physical and mental health consequences. Despite this reality, only five board-certified child abuse pediatricians currently practice in Kentucky.
鈥淭his fellowship represents our commitment to children and families across the Commonwealth,鈥 said Kelsey Gregory, MD, assistant professor of pediatrics. 鈥淲hether or not our fellows choose to remain in Kentucky after training, we are proud to contribute to the education of future leaders in this essential subspecialty.鈥
The three-year program is set to welcome its first fellow in July 2026. Housed within the division of pediatric forensic medicine, the fellowship offers robust clinical training through a wide range of services and partnerships. Trainees will evaluate patients in inpatient and outpatient settings, consult on hundreds of cases annually and gain exposure to a broad spectrum of presentations across all pediatric age groups.
Beyond diagnosis and treatment, the fellowship emphasizes prevention and support, equipping fellows to work across systems and communities. Clinical partnerships offer immersive rotations at the local Children鈥檚 Advocacy Center (CAC), the Kentucky Medical Examiner鈥檚 Office, and optional electives in multiple pediatric specialties. Fellows will also have opportunities to pursue research alongside the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center.
鈥淥ur team is incredibly excited to welcome a future child abuse pediatrician and help them establish a bright, purposeful career in this field,鈥 said Christina Howard, MD, associate professor of pediatrics and chief of the division. 鈥淲e鈥檝e built this fellowship to ensure graduates are clinically exceptional and equipped with the skills to make a lasting impact.鈥