Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU Health) Program

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship program at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland is designed for clinicians seeking advanced training in comprehensive family planning and women's health issues. This program offers an in-depth understanding of the complexities involved in reproductive health care and prepares fellows to provide high-quality care in a variety of settings.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured to cover the essential components of family planning, including clinical, surgical, and administrative aspects of reproductive health. Fellows will participate in a cohesive educational framework featuring didactic sessions, clinical training, and research opportunities. The fellowship emphasizes evidence-based practices and the importance of integrating clinical skills with research and advocacy.

Rotations and Clinical Exposure

Fellows will engage in various rotations that provide exposure to a diverse patient population and a wide array of family planning issues. Clinical rotations include gynecologic surgery, outpatient family planning, prenatal care, and sexual health. The program offers hands-on experience in comprehensive contraceptive care, including Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC) and provision of abortion services.

Research Opportunities

In addition to clinical training, fellows are encouraged to undertake research projects focused on pressing issues in family planning and women's health. The program provides support for fellows to present their research findings at regional and national conferences. This aspect of the fellowship is critical for developing a strong academic foundation that will serve fellows throughout their careers.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship’s location in Portland affords fellows unique opportunities to engage with community organizations focusing on reproductive justice and health disparities. Additionally, the program emphasizes the importance of advocacy in reproductive health, equipping fellows with the skills needed to influence policies that affect women's health services. The interdisciplinary approach fosters collaboration with specialists in social work, mental health, and community health to address the multifaceted needs of patients.

Training Sites

Fellows will train at Oregon Health & Science University and affiliated community health clinics, each providing a distinctive lens through which to view family planning services. This multi-site training approach ensures a well-rounded educational experience where fellows can apply their skills across different healthcare settings.

Visa Support

The program supports international applicants seeking to obtain the J-1 visa, which is commonly utilized for graduate medical education. The administrative team assists fellows with the necessary paperwork and requirements, enabling eligible international medical graduates (IMGs) to pursue their training in the United States.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship in Complex Family Planning is competitive, primarily aimed at graduates of US medical schools and international medical graduates with relevant training. Applicants are evaluated on their clinical experience, letters of recommendation, and commitment to family planning and women's health. Special application requirements may include a maximum number of failed STEP exams, typically allowing up to one failure, and candidates are expected to have graduated from medical school within the last five years.

Diversity and Inclusivity

The program values diversity in its fellows and seeks to foster an inclusive environment. Applicants from varied backgrounds are encouraged to apply, which enriches the learning experience and promotes a broader understanding of the patients they will serve.