Geisinger Health System Program
Location:
Danville, PASpecialty:
Maternal-fetal medicineACGME Code:
2304122005The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at Geisinger Health System is designed to offer a comprehensive training experience in a high-volume clinical environment, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care and research. This three-year fellowship immerses fellows in a diverse patient population, ensuring exposure to a wide array of clinical cases vital for training future specialists committed to improving pregnancy outcomes.
The fellowship is housed within the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, which boasts a team of board-certified faculty perinatologists, nurse practitioners, ultrasonographers, and genetic counselors. Fellows are treated as valued colleagues from day one, fostering a collaborative and collegial atmosphere conducive to learning. This accredited program has been training maternal-fetal medicine specialists since 2006, ensuring that fellows receive education rooted in high standards of practice and clinical expertise 1.
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum integrates didactic education with significant clinical experience and research training. Over the three years, fellows are expected to complete various rotations, including:
- Ultrasound
- Genetics and genomics
- Outpatient clinic
- Consultative care including inpatient labor and delivery
- Adult intensive care
- Elective topics
Fellows also gain extensive experience in multidisciplinary patient counseling settings, collaborating with various specialists to review management plans, including discussing prognoses and postnatal care for newborns with congenital anomalies. Such collaborative conferences are designed to promote effective communication with patients and their families, enhancing the fellowship experience 1.
Training Sites
Research Opportunities
The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship also emphasizes the importance of research, allotting at least 12 months of dedicated research training. This process equips fellows with relevant skills and knowledge to support academic contributions to maternal-fetal medicine. Collaboration with the Henry Hood Center for Health Research facilitates project development, completion, and mentoring, ensuring that fellowship graduates are prepared to engage meaningfully in ongoing research initiatives 1.
Application Requirements
Applicants to the fellowship must have completed an ACGME-approved OB-GYN residency program in good standing and must successfully pass all three steps of the USMLE. The program accepts applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and requires the following documentation for consideration:
- Completed ERAS application
- Updated curriculum vitae
- Personal statement
- Photo
- USMLE transcript
- A minimum of three letters of recommendation, including one from the current residency program director
- Medical school transcript
The application deadline falls on May 31, following which interviews for selected candidates take place during July and August 2.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program offers visa sponsorship options for qualified international medical graduates, providing support necessary for obtaining a J-1 research visa. The fellowship is characterized as competitive but is noted for being friendly towards both DO and IMG applicants, which broadens the pool of eligible candidates. It is essential for applicants to maintain a strong academic record and fulfill all outlined criteria to enhance their standing in the selection process 2.
Faculty and Mentorship
Fellows are integrated into a community led by experienced faculty committed to providing top-tier education. Faculty members are not only involved in individual training but are also active in ongoing research projects aimed at addressing contemporary issues in maternal-fetal medicine. Regular engagements with faculty, including evaluation meeting periods, ensure that fellows receive constructive feedback and guidance tailored to their professional development 3.
Living and Training Environment
The Danville, Pennsylvania area provides a distinctive setting for medical training, offering a low cost of living with abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Given its proximity to major urban centers like Philadelphia and New York City, fellows can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while having access to diverse cultural and professional experiences. Feedback from current fellows indicates that the supportive community and enriching training environment contribute significantly to their overall satisfaction with the program 3.
Website
Director
John Ross, DOProgram Director, Maternal-fetal Medicine Fellowship Appointed Since October 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$75,922First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Danville, PA 17821
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Danville, PA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Danville has a low crime rate compared to national averages, making it a relatively safe community to live in.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities in nearby state parks, visit local museums like the Thomas Beaver Free Library, and attend community events throughout the year.
- Climate: Danville experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Residents get to enjoy the beauty of fall foliage.
- Races and Population: The population in Danville is diverse, with a mix of races and ethnicities contributing to a vibrant community.
- Education: Danville is home to reputable schools and the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, providing educational opportunities for residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Danville is relatively affordable compared to larger cities, making it an attractive place for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Danville is approximately 2 hours away from Philadelphia by car, providing access to a major city for additional amenities and entertainment.
- Pros: Safe environment, diverse community, affordable cost of living, and access to outdoor activities.
- Cons: Limited nightlife and entertainment options within the town itself.
Interview Questions
