Pediatric Residency Program

In collaboration with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center's Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) - Knoxville, Dolly Parton Children's Hospital is thrilled to announce our new Pediatric Residency Program launching in 2027! We're seeking passionate and dedicated medical students to join our inaugural class and become part of a growing legacy of exceptional pediatric care.

Why Choose Our Program?

• Unparalleled Experience: Learn from seasoned attendings with decades of experience, working directly alongside them to provide compassionate care to children in need.
• Personalized Mentorship: Benefit from a low resident-to-attending ratio, ensuring personalized guidance and support throughout your residency.
• Comprehensive Training: Gain hands-on experience in a variety of pediatric subspecialties, preparing you for a successful career in any field you choose.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train in a modern, family-centered environment equipped with the latest technology and resources.
• A Thriving Community: Discover the vibrant city of Knoxville, nestled in the foothills of the majestic Smoky Mountains.

About Dolly Parton Children's Hospital

• Free-standing, independent, not-for-profit pediatric health care system serving more than 16 counties in Tennessee
• Comprehensive Regional Pediatric Center caring for seriously ill children in a unique pediatric environment
• More than 30 pediatric subspecialties

Annually, our hospital serves more than 130,000 Patients including:

Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital is located in Knoxville, TN

• Dynamic university town
• Unique blend of small-town southern charm and big-city opportunity
• Known for hospitality and affordability
• No state income tax
• Four mild seasons
• More than 850 miles of hiking trails
• Six hour drive to the beach
• More than 25 direct flights from the regional airport

Faculty

Department Chair

Suzanne Rybczynski, MD, MSHCM, FAAP

Dr. Suzanne Rybczynski is the Chair of the Department of Pediatrics and Associate Professor of Pediatrics. She is a 1991 graduate of the University of Mississippi, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in history. She earned her Doctorate in Medicine from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in 1995. Dr. Rybczynski completed her residency training in pediatrics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Rybczynski has over 30 years of experience in pediatric healthcare, including as a general pediatrician and pediatric hospitalist. She is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Her research focus is on suicide risk screening and prevention in youth, especially those with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Dr. Rybczynski is also the Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Medical Affairs at Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital.