Rush University Medical Center Program

Overview of the Complex Family Planning Fellowship

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship at Rush University Medical Center provides a comprehensive and supportive environment for physicians aiming to enhance their expertise in family planning. This program equips fellows with clinical and research skills pertaining to all aspects of family planning, focusing on innovative clinical practices and basic scientific research in women's health

Rush University Medical Center, located in Chicago, is renowned for its commitment to quality healthcare and its diverse patient population. The fellowship is designed for driven individuals, particularly from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, offering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all applicants

Curriculum and Training

The curriculum encompasses comprehensive clinical training alongside research opportunities. Major areas covered during the fellowship include:

• All methods of pregnancy termination
• Complex contraception
• Sterilization and gynecologic surgery
• Anesthesia and pain control

Fellows actively engage with the Family Planning clinic and work in collaboration with Planned Parenthood of Illinois, which ensures a diverse clinical experience serving different populations and understanding varied family planning needs

Research Opportunities

The fellowship integrates a robust research program where fellows receive training in:

• Epidemiology and biostatistics
• Study design and grant writing
• Presentation skills at grand rounds and national conferences

Each fellow will develop a structured research project, enhancing their ability to emerge as independent investigators. The program also offers mentorship to support research endeavors, aligning with various ongoing projects within the division

Master's Degree Component

Fellows in the program will earn a Master’s of Science in Clinical Research throughout the fellowship. This program provides an intensive curriculum in biostatistics and clinical research methodologies, culminating in a master’s thesis that may serve as a basis for publication and grant applications.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The program emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, promoting an environment that supports growth and improvement for all stakeholders involved, including patients, providers, and support staff. Initiatives such as the Center for Community Health Equity aim to address health outcomes in the community and contribute to dismantling health disparities

Application Process

The application process for the Complex Family Planning Fellowship is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Specific application materials include letters of recommendation submitted via the Letter of Recommendation Portal, personal statements adhering to guidelines provided by the Society of Family Planning, and participation in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP)

Visa Support

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship supports fellowship applicants on various visa types. It is advisable for international medical graduates to inquire about specific visa sponsorship policies during the application process to ensure appropriate visa documentation can be managed in a timely manner.

Competitiveness

The fellowship program is known to be highly competitive. It welcomes a diverse array of applicants, including both Allopathic (MD) and Osteopathic (DO) candidates, as well as International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The program actively seeks out candidates showcasing a broad range of experiences and backgrounds, thus fostering a dynamic educational environment

Faculty and Mentorship

Fellows are supported by a dedicated team of faculty who are leaders in family planning and reproductive health. They benefit from mentorship opportunities designed to enhance both clinical skills and research initiatives. The faculty's commitment to education ensures that fellows receive comprehensive training and support throughout the fellowship

Program Highlights

The following features exemplify the unique offerings of the Complex Family Planning Fellowship:

• Partnership with Planned Parenthood of Illinois for diverse clinical exposure
• Focus on care for medically complex patients
• Access to innovative clinical procedures through the CARLA (Complex Abortion Referral Line for Access) program

This enhances the fellows' experience by involving them in advanced clinical care together with collaborations with local organizations dedicated to reproductive healthcare access

Compensation and Benefits

Fellows receive a competitive annual salary along with comprehensive health insurance and funding support for attending conferences, thereby ensuring that they remain connected with the latest developments in family planning and reproductive health research.