Old Dominion University Program

The Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellowship at Old Dominion University offers a comprehensive training program designed to equip fellows with essential skills in reproductive endocrinology. Structured as a three-year ACGME-accredited fellowship, this program prepares graduates for subspecialty certification by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.

This fellowship is hosted at the Shady Grove Fertility Jones Institute, a leading fertility center with a history of pioneering reproductive technologies, including the first IVF baby in the United States. The fellowship combines clinical practice and research opportunities, ensuring that fellows develop a well-rounded skill set.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to provide extensive experience across various specialties within reproductive healthcare. In the first year, fellows rotate through different areas including:

• Shady Grove Fertility Jones Institute (SGFJI)
• Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
• Reproductive Urology
• Pediatric Gynecology
• Assisted Reproductive Technology/Andrology Laboratory

In the second year, the focus shifts primarily towards research, while the third year involves senior rotations at SGFJI and covers additional areas such as medical endocrinology and clinical genetics. This multi-faceted curriculum ensures that fellows have a solid foundation in both clinical and surgical settings, alongside robust research opportunities in areas such as oocyte donation and male infertility, which are critical in the field of reproductive health 1.

Training Sites

The fellowship is conducted in several key training sites that enhance the clinical experience:

• Shady Grove Fertility Jones Institute: The principal site of training where state-of-the-art assisted reproductive technologies are employed.
• Sentara Princess Anne Hospital: A 160-bed acute care hospital offering a comprehensive array of services and advanced clinical settings.
• Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: The primary teaching hospital with a notable trauma center and a large obstetrics unit handling thousands of deliveries annually.
• Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters: Virginia's only freestanding children's hospital, known for its advanced pediatric care and specialty programs.

These diverse training environments enable fellows to gain hands-on experience in both adult and pediatric reproductive health, refining their clinical skills in varied settings 2.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship places significant emphasis on research, encouraging fellows to engage in both basic and clinical projects. Potential research areas include:

• Endometrium and implantation processes
• Oocyte maturation and donation
• Male infertility factors

Fellows work closely with faculty who are seasoned in both clinical and bench research, providing mentorship and collaboration opportunities that enhance the learning experience 3.

Application Process

The fellowship recruits one fellow per year through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Applicants are required to have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program, hold an MD or DO from an accredited institution, and possess a valid ECFMG certificate for international medical graduates. Application components include:

• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Three letters of recommendation (one from the residency program director)
• Personal statement
• USMLE Step scores or COMLEX scores

The submission of the application is done through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with deadlines typically opening December 1 and closing May 1. Invitations for in-person or virtual interviews are sent out thereafter 4.

Competitive Structure and Visa Support

The fellowship program is highly competitive, accepting well-qualified candidates from various medical backgrounds, including DO and IMG applicants. This inclusivity allows for a diverse mix of fellows who can contribute unique perspectives to the field of reproductive endocrinology. Regarding visa support, the program is also noted for its sponsorship of J-1 visa holders, which is critical for international medical graduates seeking to pursue their training in the United States 5.

Fellowship Benefits

The fellowship provides competitive stipend rates, with specific yearly salaries guaranteed for fellows at various postgraduate years. Benefits also include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, annual leave, sick leave, and educational leave to attend relevant conferences and training events. Additionally, the program emphasizes the importance of a good work-life balance and offers wellness resources to support fellow health throughout their training period 6.