Creighton University School of Medicine Program

The Creighton University School of Medicine – Phoenix offers a comprehensive residency program in Obstetrics and Gynecology, designed to prepare residents for independent practice in the specialty. This four-year residency is fully accredited and recruits nine new positions annually, merging a commitment to education with hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings. The program's mission emphasizes training diverse and capable obstetrician-gynecologists, who can practice independently and take on leadership roles in the community, with substantial exposure to high-risk obstetrics and a variety of medical conditions.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum of the residency is structured to provide a broad range of educational experiences. During the first year (PGY I), the focus is on foundational knowledge in Obstetrics and Gynecology, with a unique introductory segment called "OB boot camp," which involves intensive training in both obstetric and gynecologic care.

This is a glimpse of rotation experience for each year:

PGY I: Residents rotate through core rotations such as ambulatory care, gynecology at multiple locations, gynecologic oncology, obstetric care, and surgical ICU.

PGY II: There's an opportunity for residents to hone their clinical and leadership skills while caring for high-risk OB patients under supervision.

PGY III: This is a year focused on deepening clinical knowledge and experience, including time in private practices and subspecialty practices.

PGY IV: Senior residents take full responsibility for patient management and develop practice management skills.

Throughout the residency, there is a strong emphasis on comprehensive training and mentoring, with daily supervision provided by board-certified specialists available 24/7, thereby enhancing both clinical competence and academic excellence.1

Research and Teaching Opportunities

The program is committed to developing future physician leaders through a robust research curriculum integrated throughout residency training. Residents engage in hospital-based research, supported by seasoned researchers and faculty, participating in various scholarly activities.2

The program also hosts a number of well-structured academic projects, including journal clubs, didactic lectures, and hands-on training regarding essential skills such as laparoscopic and robotic surgeries, reproductive technology, and urogynecology. This well-rounded exposure ensures residents are well-prepared to contribute to and advocate for women's health at multiple levels.3

Clinical Rotations and Affiliations

The Creighton University residency program benefits from affiliations with major healthcare facilities in Phoenix, notably Valleywise Health Medical Center and Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital. Valleywise Health serves a crucial community role, particularly among underserved populations, with a substantial case load and trauma support.2

Dignity Health St. Joseph's Hospital features advanced resources for trauma and cancer care, reinforcing the program's commitment to comprehensive training in diverse medical environments. These affiliate sites provide residents with invaluable experiences across a variety of care settings, enhancing both procedural and interpersonal skills needed for successful OB-GYN practice.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

Creighton's residency program integrates Jesuit values into medical education, promoting a culture of inclusivity and community service. There is a strong focus on physician wellness, with dedicated time for small-group discussions, resident-led wellness initiatives, and personal health activities.4

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process for the residency aligns with the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG) standards. Applicants are encouraged to complete the Altus Suite of assessments, which assists in a holistic review, evaluating non-cognitive skills, interpersonal characteristics, and personal values.5

The application requires candidates to submit a Standardized Letter of Evaluation (SLOE) and two letters of recommendation, one typically from the chair of their department or another OB-GYN faculty member. For the academic year 2024-2025, there are specific deadlines for applications and interviews, ensuring a structured selection process.

This residency program strives for a diverse cohort of residents, making it generally competitive, while also maintaining a welcoming stance to individuals from diverse educational backgrounds, including DOs and international medical graduates (IMGs). Visa sponsorship may be available for international applicants, facilitating their participation in this esteemed program.5