Henry Ford Health/Henry Ford Hospital Program

The Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program at Henry Ford Health, located in Detroit, Michigan, is a fully accredited four-year program designed to train residents in all aspects of obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN). This program accepts five new residents each year and possesses a diverse faculty of over 35 members, each being board certified in their respective specialties by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). The training framework emphasizes both clinical exposure and didactic learning, aiming to prepare residents for board certification while equipping them with comprehensive skills necessary for independent practice.

Throughout the residency, the program provides extensive clinical experience, with around 6,600 triage visits and 2,200 annual deliveries. The obstetrics unit features a 12-bed Labor/Delivery/Recovery (LDR) area, an 8-bed antenatal unit, and a Level III NICU service, ensuring a hands-on approach to learning in high-stakes environments. Residents will have the opportunity to engage in a continuity clinic from their first year onward, forming their own patient panels under the supervision of experienced faculty.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured into a sequence of rotations over the four years of training. For PGY-1 residents, the first year includes six rotations in obstetrics, gynecology, gynecologic oncology, consultative medicine, and a dedicated rotation for surgical intensive care. This first-year experience is crucial in laying the foundation of clinical skills that residents will build upon as they progress. The following years integrate advanced gynecological procedures and specialized rotations, such as Family Planning and Maternal Fetal Medicine, enhancing the residents' clinical exposure.

Moreover, the program uses a 13 block rotation framework, allowing a focused approach in developing essential surgical skills, including gynecologic oncology training where residents actively participate in the surgical management of patients with cancer.

Research Opportunities

Henry Ford Health is recognized nationally for its contributions to clinical and basic research with approximately $80 million in research funding. Each resident is expected to complete at least one research project during their training, which includes the development of a manuscript and oral presentation. This emphasis on research, combined with mentorship and protected research time during their training years, allows residents to develop a deep understanding of academic medicine and contribute meaningfully to the field of OB/GYN.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program places a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, providing extensive training opportunities addressing healthcare disparities, implicit bias, and systemic racism in healthcare. Residents are engaged in initiatives focusing on culturally competent care, ensuring that their training reflects the diverse population they serve. The program also boasts a state-of-the-art Clinical Skills Simulation Center, providing residents with advanced training using simulated patient scenarios for a variety of procedures, enhancing their skills without risk to real patients.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

Henry Ford Health sponsors only J-1 visas for international medical graduates. An essential requirement for application is ECFMG certification at the time of the application for international candidates. Additionally, it is strongly preferred that candidates pass the USMLE or the COMLEX exams on their first attempt, and candidates should not have graduated medical school more than two years prior to applying.

Applicants must submit a personal statement, curriculum vitae, medical school transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a standardized letter of evaluation as part of their application. Additionally, a strong academic record and competitive USMLE scores (with the program favoring scores above 215) are recognized as advantageous.

Competitiveness

The Henry Ford Health Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program is considered highly competitive with strong preferences for candidates who demonstrate excellence and commitment to the field of obstetrics and gynecology. The program welcomes U.S. medical graduates as well as international medical graduates (IMGs), building an inclusive environment for diverse backgrounds.

Application Process and Deadlines

The application process follows guidelines established by the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applications are typically reviewed in October, with interviews conducted from mid-October through mid-January. Candidates should ensure that all elements of their application are submitted by the specified deadlines to be considered for interviews.

Wellness Programs

Recognizing the importance of resident well-being, Henry Ford Health implements several wellness initiatives, including monthly wellness rounds and a dedicated “We Care” program designed to support residents in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. These programs are integral to fostering a positive and supportive training environment.