Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship at Emory University School of Medicine offers postgraduate training for Obstetrician-Gynecologists, focusing on enhancing clinical skills and research methods in family planning and abortion services. This esteemed fellowship encourages fellows to formulate their own research ideas under the mentorship of experienced colleagues, thereby advancing their scholarly pursuits within the field of reproductive health.

Prominent collaborations with leading researchers at organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and the School of Public Health are central to the fellowship's mission. These collaborations enhance the fellowship's research initiatives, which currently include projects studying contraceptive continuation, the development of interactive contraceptive teaching tools, and post-placental intrauterine device (IUD) insertions 1.

Clinical Experience and Training Opportunities

The fellowship provides extensive clinical exposure through the urban, inner-city Family Planning Clinic, which serves an international population and offers a comprehensive range of contraceptive options. Training in abortion services occurs in both a county hospital setting and at the outpatient Feminist Women's Health Center (FWHC), affording experience in both medical and surgical abortions during the first and second trimesters. Additionally, FWHC offers specialized health services such as refugee health and community advocacy work. Such exposure equips fellows with robust experience in diverse clinical scenarios focused on contraception and abortion care 1.

Curriculum and Educational Structure

The fellowship program emphasizes a strong educational component, including weekly Family Planning conferences that involve medical students, residents, and clinic staff. These conferences play a critical role in fostering a collaborative learning environment. Fellows are encouraged to engage actively in lectures for students and local community members, which contributes to the development of their public speaking and presentation skills 1.

Research and Advocacy

Research is a fundamental aspect of the fellowship, with opportunities to develop evidence-based advocacy related to reproductive health. The faculty's commitment to maintaining high educational standards and research initiatives remains steadfast despite the changing landscape of reproductive health legislation in the region. The fellowship not only prepares its participants with clinical competence but also instills in them the importance of advocacy within the community, particularly in the contexts of complex health scenarios that may arise due to restrictive policies 3.

Application and Eligibility Criteria

One fellow position is available each year, fostering a personalized training experience for the selected candidate. The program is highly competitive and welcomes applications from individuals who are dedicated to advancing their careers in family planning. Specific application requirements, including the number of years since graduation and the maximum allowable failures on Step examinations, are clearly outlined in the application materials. This ensures that candidates meet the rigorous standards necessary for participation in this program 3.

Visa Support

The program is supportive of international applicants, providing visa sponsorship as needed. The type of visa sponsorship available typically includes J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the participation of international medical graduates who wish to pursue advanced training within the fellowship. Such support is crucial for fostering diverse perspectives within the program, which in turn enriches the educational experience for all fellows involved 1.

Competitiveness and Candidate Interaction

The fellowship is regarded as highly competitive, particularly for applicants from diverse backgrounds including DOs and international medical graduates (IMGs). Emory's commitment to inclusive education is reflected in its outreach for candidates with diverse experiences and perspectives. Applicants are encouraged to participate in interviews and communicate directly with fellowship directors about their applications and further inquiries, providing an avenue for potential fellows to gain insights into the program 3.