Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/West Program

The Residency Program in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Mount Sinai West is a prestigious four-year program designed to provide a comprehensive blend of academic learning and extensive clinical exposure. The program aims to equip graduates with the necessary skills to pursue subspecialty fellowship training in obstetrics and gynecology or to begin practicing as general obstetricians and gynecologists.

Located in New York City’s vibrant Upper West Side, the program operates under the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and is part of the Mount Sinai Health System, which encompasses Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West hospitals. This setting enriches the residency experience, offering residents diverse learning opportunities in a bustling urban environment.

Program Goals and Objectives

The residency program is committed to nurturing compassionate, engaged, and diverse physician candidates. Among its objectives are:

• To foster the development of high-level clinical skills and sound judgment in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
• To inspire residents towards a deep passion for obstetrics and gynecology, preparing them for fellowship opportunities in various subspecialties.
• To provide valuable research and clinical experience, encouraging active participation in quality improvement initiatives.
• To cultivate an environment that prioritizes wellness and resilience among residents.

This program also emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, supported by a Health Equity Taskforce dedicated to addressing health inequities and enhancing community health outcomes. Residents engage actively in this initiative and participate in a tailored health equity curriculum during their training.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum aligns with recommendations from the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG) and the ACGME, encompassing a diverse range of clinical rotations across subspecialties. Key highlights include:

• Clinical Rotations: Residents experience rotations at both Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West, which are in close proximity to each other. First-year residents focus on foundational rotations, while subsequent years see a progression toward more complex surgical procedures and leadership roles.
• Research: Supported by a dedicated research faculty, residents are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities throughout their training, with an emphasis on conducting research projects during their second and third years.
• Didactic Learning: Tuesday mornings are reserved for academic activities, including simulations, traditional lectures, and patient safety rounds. A comprehensive series of conferences enhances learning across various clinical topics.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

The first year serves as an introduction to the essential components of obstetrics and gynecology, broadening in complexity with each successive year:

• PGY-1: Includes rotations in obstetrics, benign gynecology, emergency medicine, and pediatric and adolescent gynecology.
• PGY-2: Focuses on maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology, and family planning, allowing residents to develop skills in surgical management and complex patient care.
• PGY-3: Residents take more responsibility during labor and delivery, expanding their operative skills under the guidance of chief residents.
• PGY-4: Chief residents lead their teams and are involved in complex patient management, mentorship roles, and educational activities.

Salary, Benefits, and Housing

The compensation structure for residents aligns with that of other New York City institutions. Starting salaries begin at $81,155 and rise to $95,853 during the PGY-4 year. Benefits include:

• An education fund of $750 annually.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• A meal subsidy totaling $1,325 per year.
• Housing options are guaranteed, with accommodations available in modern apartment buildings near the hospital.

Resident Wellness

Recognizing the demands of residency, the program emphasizes wellness and resilience through various initiatives. These include:

• Facilitated peer reflection groups and wellness events during dedicated time.
• Resilience training and structured mindfulness sessions.
• A funded wellness committee focused on enhancing the overall training experience.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The program offers seven categorical positions annually. Candidates are required to submit a comprehensive application, including a personal statement, CV, and letters of recommendation. Notably, the program is highly competitive, welcoming diverse candidates, including DO and IMG applicants. It sponsors both H1 and J1 visas, ensuring support for international trainees seeking residency in the U.S.

To be considered for an interview, applications must be submitted by October 1, with virtual interviews conducted in the following months. The selection process prioritizes candidates with strong academic backgrounds and relevant clinical experiences.

Unique Aspects

This residency program stands out for its commitment to comprehensive women’s healthcare and robust training in obstetrics and gynecology, underscored by a significant volume of clinical services provided. Annually, the department performs approximately 6,000 deliveries, 2,800 gynecologic surgeries, and over 20,000 fetal evaluation procedures, evidencing a rich clinical learning environment for residents.

Overall, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/West Program in Obstetrics and Gynecology is structured to cultivate well-rounded physicians poised for future contributions in women’s health.