Department of Pediatrics

Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship Director's Message

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Danny Castro, D.O., M.Ed.
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Danny Castro, D.O., M.Ed. 
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Dear Future Colleague,

It's truly a pleasure to connect with you regarding our Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Fellowship Program. Your interest means a lot to us, and I'm excited to share some insights about what makes our program, division, and city stand out.

Let me start by introducing you to Texas Children’s Hospital, a beacon of pediatric care and the largest free-standing children’s hospital in the United States. We're proud to be the pediatric affiliate of Baylor College of Medicine, a partnership that underscores our commitment to excellence in education and patient care. Led by esteemed professionals like our Division Chief, Dr. Katri Typpo, our division boasts over 100 dedicated pediatric critical care physicians, alongside a growing team of hospitalists, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners.

Equity, inclusivity and belonging are not just buzzwords for us; they're integral to our ethos. Baylor College of Medicine actively fosters an environment that celebrates differences and champions initiatives promoting community engagement and health equity. Houston, our vibrant home, mirrors this commitment to proportionate representation across all dimensions, consistently ranking as one of America's most diverse cities. Within our faculty and fellows, you'll find a beautiful tapestry reflecting the rich cultural fabric of Houston.

Our Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Fellowship Program, with 21 fellows, is the largest in the nation. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, we've been shaping pediatric critical care leaders since the early 1980s, with over 200 fellows trained to date. We hold ourselves to the highest standards, nurturing fellows who not only excel clinically and academically but also embody the core values of our program and college.

Our fellows are an amazing group of individuals. What I admire most about our fellows is their unwavering commitment and dedication to our patients and their education. Despite the occasional challenges and pressures of our environment, they consistently strive to give their best. Moreover, what sets them apart is their ability to maintain a sense of groundedness, never taking themselves too seriously which helps foster a positive and supportive environment where everyone thrives.

On a more personal note, living in Houston is an absolute joy for my family and me. Beyond the professional opportunities, we cherish the city for its warmth, diversity, and endless cultural offerings. Whether it's exploring the vibrant culinary scene, immersing ourselves in the arts, or enjoying the great outdoors, Houston has something for everyone.

I hope this glimpse into our program, division, and city resonates with you. We're here to support you on your journey towards becoming a pediatric critical care physician and the best version of yourself.

Warm regards,

Danny Castro, D.O., M.Ed. 
Program Director
Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Fellowship