Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) aims to develop competent subspecialists skilled in delivering comprehensive care to pregnant women with various medical, obstetric, or surgical complications. The program is structured to support fellows as they transition from dependent trainees to independent specialists.

The overarching objective is not just the clinical training, but also to cultivate academicians and leaders who can contribute significantly to the field of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) through research and education. Fellows participate in various research projects and are trained in necessary statistical, epidemiologic, and laboratory techniques, all critical for establishing an independent research focus 1.

Curriculum and Structure

The MFM Fellowship at MCW spans three years and adheres to the educational goals set by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). Throughout the fellowship, fellows are allotted 15 months dedicated to research, complemented by extensive clinical exposure accounting for 21 months of clinical duties. This dual focus aims to foster both the clinical and academic skills necessary for a successful career in MFM.

Additionally, the program provides opportunities to obtain advanced degrees such as a Master’s of Science in Clinical and Translational Science (CTS) and a Master’s of Science in Public Health (MPH), as well as a graduate Certificate in Clinical and Translational Science, enhancing the educational experience 1.

Clinical Experience and Rotations

Fellows undergo various clinical rotations to acquire comprehensive skills in different areas pertinent to MFM. The clinical experience includes:

• Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinical Rotation (12 months): Engaging in both basic and complicated MFM care, including detailed sonography and management plans under supervision.
• Labor & Delivery (2 months): Experience in intrapartum and postpartum MFM care while taking on educational roles
• Critical Care (1 month): Involvement in complex cases in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit.
• Neonatology (1 month): Participation in NICU care, managing a range of neonatal complications.
• Genetics (2 months): Engagement in genetic counseling and care planning for high-risk pregnancies.

Additionally, fellows participate in a Continuity Clinic, dedicating half a day weekly to provide ongoing care for continuity patients and consultation for referred cases 2. This schedule enables fellows to solidify their clinical knowledge while delivering care in a supportive environment.

Didactic Training

Structured educational time is paramount for fellows' development. Each Wednesday morning is allocated for didactic sessions, which cover various topics relevant to MFM. These sessions include:

• Weekly MFM Fellow Lecture Series: Focused on fundamental topics from ABOG MFM learning objectives.
• Fetal Concerns Conference: A multidisciplinary forum addressing complex fetal conditions.
• MFM Neonatology Conference: Conversations around neonatal complications from the delivery to NICU progression.
• MFM Journal Club: A monthly review of literature presented by fellows.
• Adult Congenital Heart Disease in Pregnancy Seminar: Discussion of complex congenital heart disease management during pregnancy.

These educational conferences are crucial for fostering knowledge sharing among fellows and faculty, ensuring ongoing professional development 3.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process for the fellowship is highly competitive, with only one position available each year. Interested candidates must apply through the ERAS platform. Essential application requirements include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Three letters of recommendation (with a possibility of four)
• USMLE scores (Steps 1-3)
• Personal statement
• Medical school transcript
• Dean’s letter
• CREOG scores from the first three years

There are no explicit cut-off criteria for applications, and international medical graduates must also comply with ECFMG guidelines while applying through ERAS. The review committee considers all fractions of an application before extending interview invitations 2. Interviews generally take place from July to September each year.

Visa Support

The program actively supports international applicants, offering guidance on visas associated with the fellowship training. It provides sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types, ensuring that foreign medical graduates can participate in the fellowship without legal barriers, provided all documentation adheres to established regulations.

Inclusivity in Applications

The MFM Fellowship at MCW is described as friendly to DO and IMG candidates, encouraging diverse backgrounds in medicine. The program's inclusive admissions process reflects a commitment to evaluate all aspects of an applicant's experience 4.