MedStar Health Georgetown University/Washington Hospital Center Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Maternal-fetal medicineACGME Code:
2301022001The MedStar Health—Washington Hospital Center Fellowship Program in Maternal-Fetal Medicine is an ACGME-accredited training opportunity that is intricately designed to provide comprehensive education in the field of maternal-fetal medicine. It is sponsored jointly by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at both MedStar Washington Hospital Center (MWHC) and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (MGUH). The majority of the clinical rotations take place at MWHC, which is a 926-bed teaching hospital known as the largest private, not-for-profit hospital in the nation's capital. MWHC is recognized among the top national hospitals according to U.S. News & World Report and has distinct facilities including a large Labor and Delivery suite with 12 labor, delivery, and recovery (LDR) rooms and a level three NICU that admits over 900 neonates annually.1
At MWHC, patients experiencing pregnancy complications are cared for in a specialized antepartum/post-partum unit, whereas critically ill patients are managed in multiple medical/surgical ICUs. MFWC also houses the Prenatal Diagnosis Center, where fellows gain proficiency in various invasive procedures including ultrasound and chorionic villus sampling.1
Training Sites
The fellowship offers rotations not only at MWHC but also at MGUH and Children’s National Medical Center (CNMC), which enriches the clinical training. At MGUH, fellows experience a well-equipped Labor and Delivery unit, a dedicated Postpartum unit, and a specialized NICU that provides comprehensive neonatal care.1
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is systematically structured to facilitate three years of intensive training, covering essential aspects of maternal-fetal medicine. Exposure includes high-risk continuity clinics, ultrasound, genetics, fetal imaging, and surgical ICU rotations. In the latter years, fellows partake in advanced ultrasound didactics, alongside gaining clinical experiences managing complex fetal and maternal conditions, at both MWHC and MGUH.1
Fellows will also engage in a longitudinal experience in research, designating 12 months of the fellowship solely for research endeavors. Research initiatives are supported through the MedStar Health Research Institute and various core research services.1
Research Opportunities
Research constitutes a substantial portion of the fellowship with dedicated time allocated in the later years. It is emphasized that fellows develop and complete at least one research study that can later serve as a thesis for their board certification in MFM through the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Noteworthy support structures include a partnership with the NIH that allows fellows to access substantial research resources.1
Application Process & Requirements
All interested applicants must have completed a residency in obstetrics and gynecology and be eligible to sit for the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology MFM board examination. The program typically accepts three fellows per cycle for the Maternal-Fetal Medicine pathway, while the combined Maternal-Fetal Medicine/Genetics track accommodates one fellow every two years.2
Special Considerations
Fellows interested in combined pathways or specialized training tracks should prepare for a rigorous application process, applying through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) with all supporting documents. Due to the program's focus on maternal-fetal medicine and its competitiveness, it is also vital to note that candidates from DO and IMG backgrounds are considered if they possess an adequate level of training and performance in applicable licensure examinations.2
Visa Sponsorship
The program provides visa sponsorship options for international medical graduates, primarily through the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa program. This facilitates the training of fellows who are foreign nationals, allowing them to participate fully in the educational environment.2
Salary and Benefits
Fellows will receive a competitive salary that is commensurate with PGY levels, along with a full benefits package that includes health insurance, vacation days, and research funding opportunities.1
Competitiveness
The MedStar Health Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship is regarded as highly competitive, reflecting its robust training structure, opportunities for hands-on learning, and interaction with a diverse patient population. The program attracts a wide array of applicants, and successful candidates will be those who exhibit exceptional resilience, a deep commitment to the field, and strong academic performance in their previous medical education.2
Website
Director
Sara Iqbal, MDDirector, MFM Division; Program Director, MFM/MFM Genetics Fellowships Appointed Since September 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$82,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
