Indiana University School of Medicine Program

The Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Fellowship program at the Indiana University School of Medicine is an esteemed training program that integrates the disciplines of obstetrics, gynecology, and urology. It is designed for physicians who seek advanced training in diagnosing and managing complex pelvic floor disorders affecting women's health, including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, defecatory dysfunction, and childbirth-related injuries. The program emphasizes both clinical excellence and innovative research, ensuring that fellows not only provide high-quality care but also contribute to the academic advancement of the field.

The fellowship is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and features a comprehensive curriculum that balances patient care responsibilities with academic learning and research activities.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to maximize hands-on experience through supervised patient care, with fellows engaging with patients alongside experienced faculty who guide their clinical learning. Trainees are required to complete an essential number of clinical service months, with a dedicated focus on female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. In total, fellows will spend 24 months in clinical service and are encouraged to participate in didactic sessions including journal clubs, surgical video seminars, and morbidity/mortality conferences to enhance their clinical acumen and decision-making skills 1.

Direct involvement in scholarly activities is paramount, and fellows are tasked with completing a comprehensive written scholarly project (thesis), which involves applying advanced research methodologies. Publication of their findings in peer-reviewed journals further substantiates their research training and prepares them for future academic roles 4.

Training Sites

Fellows gain clinical experience at multiple training sites, notably five clinical facilities within the IU Health network and the Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital. This diverse setting affords them a broad exposure to a variety of cases and patient demographics 2.

Research Opportunities

The program prioritizes research, allowing fellows to engage in mentored research activities with leading faculty. Areas of focus include the relationship between intrauterine devices and sexual and bladder dysfunction, highlighting the program’s dedication to improving healthcare outcomes 6. Collaborative projects with the Department of Urology further enhance the fellowship experience by fostering interdisciplinary research.

Application Requirements

Competitive candidates for the fellowship are expected to demonstrate a dedicated commitment to women's health, accompanied by a strong work ethic and the ability to function independently. Successful applicants typically have engaged in subspecialty-specific research during their residency training, which showcases their interest and aptitude in this field 3.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports various visa types for international medical graduates (IMGs), particularly those who are applying for J-1 or H-1B visas, making it accessible and welcoming to a diverse group of applicants 5.

Competitiveness

The fellowship is highly competitive, seeking candidates with exemplary training backgrounds. The program is designed to be both DO/IMG friendly, aiming to create a diverse and robust learning environment through inclusivity in its selection criteria. Applicants with a demonstrated track record of academic and clinical excellence are encouraged to apply.

Current and Past Fellows

Fellows within the program benefit from a collegial atmosphere that is bolstered by past graduates who have advanced into noted positions in academia and clinical practice. The program’s alumni network serves as a resource for current fellows, offering mentorship and career advice 7.

Faculty and Mentorship

Leadership within the fellowship is provided by a cadre of well-established urogynecologists and urologists who are committed to fostering the growth of fellows through comprehensive mentorship. Faculty not only teach the required competencies but actively engage in research, encouraging fellows to participate and collaborate on scientific endeavors 8.