Henry Ford Health/Henry Ford Hospital Program

The Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital is an ACGME-accredited program designed to train future leaders in urogynecology. The program offers a comprehensive educational experience through its structured curriculum and diverse clinical training opportunities. Accepting one fellow per year, the fellowship presents two tracks: a two-year Urology track and a three-year Obstetrics and Gynecology track, providing a unique pathway tailored to the professional backgrounds and goals of the trainees. The fellowship is an integral part of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency program, emphasizing collaboration and multidisciplinary learning.

Mission and Aims

The mission of the fellowship at Henry Ford Health focuses on delivering world-class medical education and innovative clinical services to meet patient needs. The program aims to prepare clinically competent professionals in all aspects of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) while developing skills necessary for conducting quality research within this specialized field.

Educational Curriculum

The educational curriculum is designed to provide hands-on experience and comprehensive knowledge of the field, covering critical areas such as vaginal, abdominal, and endoscopic reconstructive surgery. Fellows engage in a structured program that includes:

• Weekly fellow lectures
• Monthly journal club
• Monthly grand rounds featuring teaching cases
• Morbidity and Mortality Conferences held three times monthly
• A wellness curriculum to promote health and well-being

Fellows are encouraged to partake in various didactic sessions that contribute to their growth as knowledgeable clinicians.

Research Opportunities

Recognized nationally for its research endeavors, Henry Ford Hospital stands out as a leading recipient of research funding in Michigan. The fellowship emphasizes research training, allocating protected time to fellows for their research projects. Each fellow is expected to complete a research project culminating in a manuscript and oral presentation. Additionally, funding and biostatistical support are offered, and fellows are encouraged to attend academic conferences as first authors, thereby promoting their scholarly contributions and networking within the academic community.

Clinical Training

The clinical training within the fellowship adopts a well-structured rotation system delivered over three years, featuring:

• 5 rotations in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery during PGY-5
• 4 rotations in Urology and Research respectively during PGY-5
• 6 rotations in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery during PGY-6
• 7 rotations in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery during PGY-7
• Elective rotation opportunities
• 4 weeks of vacation annually

These rotations allow fellows to develop hands-on skills and clinical experience tailored to the requisites of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.

Wellness Program

Fellow wellness is a key component of the training at Henry Ford. The program implements a Physician Wellness Index, which assists fellows in self-monitoring their health and well-being. Added initiatives such as monthly “Wellness Rounds” and the “We Care” program ensure that physicians maintain optimal health, access peer support, and leverage resources for personal and professional satisfaction.

Application Process and Eligibility

The application process is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) system. Minimum requirements include:

• Completion of an ACGME-accredited residency
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation (minimum of three)
• USMLE/COMLEX scores
• Medical School transcripts
• Photo

Eligibility mandates satisfactory completion of an Obstetrics and Gynecology or Urology residency accredited by ACGME or the Council of Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Notably, candidates must be U.S. citizens, classified as resident aliens, or hold a J-1 visa.

Salary and Vacation

The fellowship provides a competitive salary, adhering to standards set by other institutions in Southeastern Michigan. Each fellow earns four weeks of vacation, alongside two wellness days, promoting a balanced lifestyle while pursuing rigorous training.

Visa Support

The fellowship program offers visa support, allowing candidates holding a J-1 visa to apply, thus making the program accessible to international medical graduates and broadened candidate pools.

Competitiveness

The fellowship is characterized as highly competitive, emphasizing the need for strong academic credentials and clinical preparation. While the program acknowledges the diverse backgrounds of applicants, it maintains a rigorous selection process to ensure the quality and caliber of its fellows.

Simulation Center

Henry Ford Hospital houses a state-of-the-art Clinical Skills Simulation Center, encompassing advanced procedural simulation technologies designed for comprehensive training in a safe environment. This facility underscores the commitment of Henry Ford Health to innovative medical education and supports hands-on skills development.