Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

Overview of the Program

The Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a fully accredited, four-year program admitting five residents annually. The program is robust, designed to expose residents to a comprehensive range of obstetric and gynecologic specialties supervised by over 30 dedicated faculty members who prioritize resident education 1.

Curriculum Structure

The educational framework follows the foundational objectives set by the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG). In the first year, residents gain fundamental skills through active participation in various technologies and surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and women's health care 1.

The subsequent years provide deeper exposure to critical areas such as reproductive endocrinology, infertility, and maternal-fetal medicine. During the final year, residents transition into management roles, assuming more responsibilities in obstetric and gynecologic services 1.

Rotations

Residents engage in a focused rotation schedule that is structured as follows:

• PGY-1: Rotations include obstetrics with responsibilities varying according to shifts, gynecologic oncology, and exposure to outpatient clinics 1.
• PGY-2: The second year expands responsibilities in urogynecology and includes participation in reproductive endocrinology, with dedicated time for inpatient and outpatient care 1.
• PGY-3: Residents further delve into maternal-fetal medicine and gain experience in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, enhancing surgical skills and knowledge in complicated cases 1.
• PGY-4: As chief residents, they oversee junior residents, lead administrative tasks, and manage complex cases under supervision, preparing them for independent practice 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the residency, with residents required to complete a formal research project prior to graduation. Each resident will spend protected time designated for research activities, fostering understanding in quality improvement and clinical study 1. The program encourages residents to publish findings and present at national and regional conferences, enhancing their educational footprint 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The residency at Hershey Medical Center stands out for its commitment to resident wellness and creating a balanced work environment. The hands-on experience is complemented by a structured didactic curriculum that integrates clinical learning with academic excellence 1. Moreover, with a night float system in place, residents are supported through rigorous training without compromising wellness 1.

Training Sites

The primary training facility is Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, which boasts advanced surgical and medical care facilities, including a Level I trauma center and dedicated obstetric services. The collaboration with Penn State Health Children’s Hospital allows exposure to high-risk maternal-fetal medicine cases 1.

Competitive Application Process

The application process for the program is highly competitive. Candidates are selected based on a combination of academic achievements and clinical experiences. It should be noted that the program is open to DO and IMG applicants 1. Specific eligibility criteria may include a maximum number of failed USMLE Step exams, as determined by the application review committee 1.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, facilitating H-1B and J-1 visas for eligible candidates. This support includes assistance navigating the visa process, ensuring that international residents can focus on their education and training 1.

Wellness and Work-Life Balance

The program incorporates wellness initiatives to support the emotional, social, and physical aspects of resident life. Resources for wellness are readily available, alongside a supportive community engaging in self-care practices and activities designed for stress management 1.