Madigan Army Medical Center Program
Location:
Tacoma, WASpecialty:
Maternal-fetal medicineACGME Code:
2305422002Program Overview
The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at Madigan Army Medical Center, located in Tacoma, WA, is a military-accredited program designed for physicians who have completed an Obstetrics and Gynecology residency and are seeking further training in maternal-fetal medicine. This program, established in 1978, prides itself on a long history of producing high-quality specialists, evidenced by a 100% first-time pass rate on both the Written and Oral MFM Boards.
This 3-year fellowship program offers comprehensive training with a strong emphasis on ultrasound skills, research proficiency, and MFM procedures. Graduates emerge as experts capable of delivering world-class maternal care and contributing significantly to the military and civilian medical communities.
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum is designed to provide extensive clinical exposure, both inpatient and outpatient. Fellows engage in a diverse set of rotations:
- MFM Consult Rotation: Involves reading normal and abnormal obstetric ultrasounds, attending complex obstetric clinics, and consulting for hospitalized obstetric patients.
- Intensive Care Unit and Labor & Delivery: Fellows function as OB/GYN attendings.
- Research: A dedicated 12-month research component allows fellows to engage in basic and clinical research.
- Elective Rotations: Offer experiences at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma for chorionic villus sampling and other specialized procedures.
- Didactic Sessions: Weekly academic sessions every Thursday focus on journal clubs, morbidity and mortality conferences, and guest lectures on relevant topics.
Additionally, fellows are trained in high-risk obstetrics procedures, including amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling while gaining hands-on experience in ultrasound and fetal echocardiography.
Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes research as a crucial component of the training. Fellows participate in established research models, including murine models of preterm labor and placenta perfusion. They have access to a dedicated Basic Science laboratory and mentorship programs with Ph.D. researchers. The program has secured significant funding, with NIH grants totaling over 12 million dollars, facilitating advanced research endeavors.
Fellows are required to develop and complete a thesis that results in a publishable manuscript, presenting their findings at national conferences. Collaborative research opportunities enhance the fellowship experience, allowing fellows to engage with prestigious institutions like the University of Washington and University of Pittsburgh.
Competitiveness and Application Process
The Madigan fellowship program is highly competitive, emphasizing applicants' emotional intelligence and maturity during the interview process. Applicants must have completed their residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and may apply through military or civilian matches. The program does not offer rotations for OB/GYN residents or staff during their fellowship training.
To maintain integrity and competitiveness, the program evaluates applications holistically, considering academic achievements, research experience, and interpersonal skills.
Visa Support and Application Requirements
The Madigan Army Medical Center Program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates. Supported visa types typically include J-1 and H-1B visas. Specific requirements may apply, and potential applicants should ensure they meet the pre-requisite training of graduating from medical school and successfully completing an Obstetrics and Gynecology residency.
Teaching and Mentorship
Teaching opportunities are integral to the fellowship, with fellows responsible for instructing OB/GYN residents and medical students. This includes leading didactic sessions and participating in morbidity and mortality conferences. Each fellow is paired with mentors who are established MFM specialists, guiding them in clinical research and professional development.
Well-Being Initiatives
The fellowship supports the well-being of its fellows through various wellness initiatives organized at the departmental and institutional levels. Activities such as family outings and access to mental health resources enhance the fellowship experience. Moreover, the integration of a peer support program guarantees fellows access to needed support, ensuring a balanced and healthy work-life environment.
Participating Sites
The primary site for the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship is Madigan Army Medical Center, with additional rotations at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma. Each site contributes unique clinical experiences that enrich fellows' training.
Website
Director
Robert B Walton, MDProgram Director, Maternal Fetal Medicine Appointed Since November 2023Coordinator
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-Location
Tacoma, WA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Tacoma, WA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Tacoma has a slightly higher crime rate compared to the national average, but the downtown area has seen improvements in recent years. It's advisable to pay attention to your surroundings, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Tacoma offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports. The city is also home to museums, art galleries, and theaters. Nearby Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Climate: Tacoma has a mild climate with wet winters and dry summers. Expect some rain throughout the year, but temperatures are relatively moderate.
- Races and Population: Tacoma is a diverse city with a population that includes Caucasians, Hispanic/Latinos, African Americans, Asians, and Native Americans.
- Education: Tacoma is home to the University of Washington Tacoma campus and several other higher education institutions. The city values education, and there are opportunities for both learning and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Tacoma is relatively lower than Seattle, but housing costs have been rising in recent years. It's still more affordable than many other major cities on the West Coast.
- Nearest Bigger Cities: Seattle is about 30 miles north of Tacoma, and the driving time can vary depending on traffic but typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Seattle offers a bigger city experience with more job opportunities, cultural events, and entertainment options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, proximity to outdoor activities, diverse population, educational opportunities.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate, potential for rainy weather, rising housing costs.
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