Louisiana State University (Shreveport) Program

The program in Obstetrics and Gynecology is a fully accredited four-year residency program offered by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Louisiana State University (LSU) Health Shreveport. With an increasing number of training positions, the program aims to prepare residents to be competent and compassionate providers of women's health care in diverse environments, both urban and rural. The mission is to cultivate technical proficiency in pelvic surgery and foster a commitment to lifelong learning and physician well-being 1.

Residency training includes a comprehensive curriculum encompassing various aspects of obstetrics and gynecology. The program features an extensive clinical training framework complemented by didactic sessions, surgical skill enhancement, and research components. The structure of the program ensures progressive responsibility and exposure to both low-risk and high-risk obstetric care, alongside a solid foundation in gynecologic surgery 3.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum spans four years, each designed to build the competencies necessary for independent practice. Residents participate in a series of rotations which include:

• PGY-1: Basic skills in managing uncomplicated obstetric and gynecologic patients, including rotations in labor and delivery, gynecological clinic, and rural health.
• PGY-2: Increased responsibilities, acting as the consultant for the GYN service and managing the labor and delivery unit.
• PGY-3: Focus on gynecologic surgery and supervising junior residents while maintaining clinical responsibilities.
• PGY-4: Chief resident responsibilities involving direct supervision of junior residents, honing surgical management skills, and functioning as independent practitioners.

Each resident participates actively in clinical teaching conferences, case presentations, and basic and clinical science lectures, facilitated by faculty and visiting professors 2.

Training Locations

The primary training site is the Ochsner LSU Health St. Mary Medical Center in Shreveport, along with significant rotations at Ochsner LSU Monroe Medical Center. This diverse exposure allows residents to engage with various patient populations and practice environments:

• Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport: accommodates around 35,000 outpatients yearly and is the main hospital for obstetrics and gynecology services.
• Ochsner LSU Health Monroe Medical Center: a rotation facility offering rural health exposure, consisting of approximately 9 months of training, and provides housing during this period.

Research and Scholarly Activities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects, with structured support from faculty advisors. Participation in research opportunities not only enhances the educational experience but also allows residents to present findings at national conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals. The residency program boasts a high participation rate in research activities, with numerous conference presentations and publications over recent years 3.

Wellness and Resident Life

The program emphasizes resident well-being through various activities and initiatives. A designated wellness chair leads efforts to promote a supportive environment. Regular social events, yoga sessions, and recreational activities are organized throughout the year. The presence of a dedicated wellness room, equipped with exercise equipment, highlights the program's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents 3.

Application Process

The program welcomes a diverse range of applicants. Key application components include:

• Three letters of recommendation (one can be a SLOE)
• Medical school transcript
• Personal statement
• Curriculum vitae
• Dean's letter (upon request)

The program not only requires a minimum score on Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE (with a PASS score being required and a minimum of 220 on Step 2) but also values holistic evaluations during the selection process 2.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, supporting J-1 and H-1B visa types. This feature is particularly beneficial for international candidates who wish to pursue residency training in the United States.3

Competitiveness

The residency program at LSU Health Shreveport is considered to be highly competitive, making it suitable for candidates who are committed and demonstrate a strong academic background. The program maintains a friendly stance towards both DO and IMG applicants, aiming for a diverse cohort that embodies a variety of experiences and perspectives 2.