Duke University Hospital Program

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship Program at Duke University Hospital is designed to train future leaders in clinical care, research, and advocacy within the field of reproductive health. This fellowship is set to commence in the 2024-2025 academic year and has been accredited by the ACGME, indicating a commitment to meeting high educational standards.

About the Program

The fellowship focuses on equipping fellows with advanced skills to manage complex family planning issues while serving a high-risk patient demographic, particularly in the Southern United States. The program acknowledges the crucial role of protecting reproductive health care access amidst evolving societal challenges. Under the leadership of Program Director, Dr. Beverly Gray, who has a rich scholarly and administrative background in family planning, the program endeavors to foster expertise in this vital area of women’s health. Dr. Gray's research interests include contraceptive counseling and medical education, while also directing various initiatives such as the DREAM (Duke Reproductive Health Equity and Advocacy Mobilization) team, which emphasizes community engagement.1

Program Highlights

This fellowship provides robust clinical training through Duke University Hospital, renowned for its capacity to treat patients requiring both routine and complex care. Following the landmark Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision, there has been a marked increase in clinical volume, which allows fellows to gain extensive hands-on experience. By 2024, the faculty will comprise five CFP faculty and two generalist core faculty along with additional research-oriented professionals and experts in gender-affirming care, enriching the educational environment further.

Collaboration with Planned Parenthood South Atlantic presents additional opportunities for clinical learning. Fellows will receive exceptional advocacy training, engaging with structured teams like the DREAM team to improve skills in public outreach and health communication. The program boasts a supportive academic environment, with alliances with various Duke departments including Bioethics, Population Health, and Duke Cancer Institute, thus promoting multidisciplinary approaches to complex family planning issues.1

Additionally, fellows are encouraged to pursue higher education, including a master's degree in clinical research, public health, or bioethics, enhancing their expertise and career readiness. The ongoing research initiatives address critical topics such as Medicaid expansion in gynecological care and improving the pain experience associated with gynecologic procedures. The department allocates internal funding specifically for fellows' research endeavors, emphasizing a culture of inquiry and investigation.1

Application Process

The application process for the Complex Family Planning Fellowship begins each year from December through May, utilizing the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program plans to recruit for its next fellow during the 2025 application season, with details forthcoming in fall 2024. Potential candidates should prepare for a rigorous selection process that emphasizes clinical acumen and a commitment to advocating for reproductive health.2

Faculty

The faculty involved in the fellowship comprises experienced professionals committed to advancing family planning education and research. Key faculty members include Dr. Clayton Alfonso, Dr. Beverly Allen Gray, Dr. Jill Hagey, Dr. Jonas Swartz, and Dr. Elizabeth Thomason, each bringing specialized knowledge and diverse backgrounds in obstetrics and gynecology.3

Fellow Experience

The fellowship is currently represented by Dr. Emile Gleeson, MD, showcasing the level of expertise that fellows can expect to achieve during their training. This fellowship promotes a holistic advancement of skillsets required for proficient family planning practice, contributing to the fellows' professional growth and preparing them to become leaders in this critical healthcare area.4

Competitive Landscape

As a new fellowship program, applicants may find the Complex Family Planning Fellowship at Duke highly competitive, especially given its broad scope and the reputational strength of Duke University Hospital in obstetrics and gynecology. The program is open to DOs and IMGs, making it an inclusive option for diverse applicants committed to pursuing advanced training in family planning.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program provides visa support for international medical graduates, typically sponsoring J-1 or H-1B visas depending on the candidate’s situation. Prospective fellows should be mindful of application requirements, which may include stipulations regarding graduation year or limitations on prior examination attempts, specifically relating to the USMLE Step exams.