McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University Program

The Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology offers a four-year residency program that equips residents with the essential skills for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of obstetric and gynecological patients. The program aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders in this field through a comprehensive training experience. Each year, the program admits twelve first-year residents who are integrated into a structured environment promoting clinical education and personal development.

The residency program is built around two primary training sites: the Prentice Women’s Hospital, a dedicated women’s facility, and the John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County, which serves as a safety-net hospital for the diverse population of Chicago. This dual-site approach ensures that residents gain a wide range of experiences in both high-risk and standard care settings.

The curriculum emphasizes a balanced education that integrates comprehensive clinical exposure with valuable teaching sessions. Throughout their training, residents will partake in routine didactic sessions, grand rounds, and weekly conferences covering various subspecialties within obstetrics and gynecology. Topics include maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology, reproductive endocrinology, and infertility.

The program also incorporates advocacy, ethics, and professionalism education into the curriculum, which fosters well-rounded healthcare professionals poised to make significant contributions to the field and their communities.

During the residency, each year is specifically designed to increase responsibility and deepen clinical experience. The first year (PGY-1) is focused on a broad introduction to obstetrics and gynecology, including essential rotations in internal medicine and emergency medicine. In the subsequent years (PGY-2 and PGY-3), residents will have rotations that enhance their competence in both general and subspecialty areas. By the fourth year (PGY-4), residents take on leadership roles as chief residents, managing clinical teams and patient care.

With extensive training at both Prentice Women’s Hospital and Stroger Hospital, residents encounter a wide spectrum of patients, which aids in developing the cultural competence necessary to serve diverse populations.

The program promotes research engagement, expecting each resident to design and conduct a mentored project aimed at producing publishable results. Residents are provided with protected time during specific rotations to focus exclusively on research activities, maximizing their potential to contribute to the scientific community.

Collaborative research opportunities extend across various fields, including clinical, epidemiological, and quality improvement projects, fostering a robust environment for inquiry and scholarly activities.

The program offers four Areas of Focus, allowing residents to tailor their education to specific career aspirations. These areas include Global Health, Medical Education, Health Equity & Advocacy, and Bioethics. Each program provides structured educational experiences, mentorship, and opportunities for research projects pertinent to the focus area.

The residency program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas for international medical graduates. This supportive approach facilitates access for a diverse range of applicants.

Regarding application requirements, candidates must submit a comprehensive application via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by specific deadlines. Notably, graduates of non-LCME accredited medical schools must present valid ECFMG certification. Furthermore, applicants should be well-prepared for a holistic review process, as the residency committee emphasizes diversity in training and applicant backgrounds.

The program is characterized as competitive, particularly welcoming diverse candidates, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds. This inclusivity aligns with the program's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the medical community.

Residents at Northwestern University are encouraged to build strong relationships outside of clinical duties, with organized monthly social events and team building activities. The vibrant city of Chicago, where the institution is located, offers diverse opportunities for recreation, culture, and dining, which contribute to a fulfilling residency experience.

This supportive and collaborative environment fosters camaraderie among residents, enhancing their overall residency experience.