Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School Program

Overview of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship Program

The Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellowship at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School is a three-year ACGME-accredited program designed to prepare fellows for expertise in high-risk obstetrics. The program accommodates two fellows per year, facilitating a comprehensive training experience through rotations at University Hospital in Newark and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is meticulously structured across three years. The first year primarily focuses on clinical rotations that cover outpatient high-risk obstetrics and ultrasound. The latter half of the first year, as well as the second year, emphasizes research activities. In the second year, fellows engage in Labor and Delivery and clinical Maternal-Fetal Medicine rotations at Hackensack University Medical Center, with an additional focus on genetics. The third year integrates advanced rotations, including critical care and prenatal diagnosis, alongside more elective opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Training Sites

Fellows rotate through two esteemed institutions. University Hospital, as a large urban teaching hospital, caters to a diverse and high-acuity patient population, offering a robust platform for advanced clinical training. Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center supports a high volume of deliveries, further enriching the fellows' exposure to various case scenarios and obstetric complexities.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship, with opportunities to engage in clinical, basic science, and translational research. Fellows are encouraged to participate in interdepartmental collaborations that enhance their research acumen. Regular meetings with research mentors help in the effective design and implementation of research projects.

Application Process

The application process for the Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellowship is conducted through the ERAS system. Applicants must provide an ERAS Application Form, a personal statement, and at least three letters of recommendation, one of which should come from their current program director. It’s essential for applicants to be ABOG eligible and have completed an ACGME-approved residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Visa Support

The program is supportive of international medical graduates (IMGs) and provides visa sponsorship. The fellowship can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, accommodating international fellows seeking to gain specialized training in maternal-fetal medicine in the United States.

Competitiveness of the Program

The Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellowship at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School maintains a competitive selection process. The program values diversity and encourages applications from individuals with varied backgrounds, including DOs and IMGs, promoting an inclusive environment for training. Candidates are assessed on their clinical competence, research interest, and commitment to women's health.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship provides competitive salaries for its fellows. For the year beginning on July 1, 2023, the annual salary for PGY 5 is $81,469, PGY 6 is $83,569, and for PGY 7 is $86,376. Additional benefits include health and dental insurance, life insurance, a pension plan, and an annual book allowance of $1,300, which supports fellows in their educational and professional development.

Resident Life

Residents at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School experience a vibrant community life. There are multiple opportunities for social gatherings and events, promoting camaraderie among fellows and residents. Activities range from bowling outings to themed dinners, fostering a supportive environment amidst the rigors of medical training.

Community Engagement

The fellowship program stands out for its commitment to community outreach. Faculty and fellows often engage in services that bridge medical care to underserved populations in Newark and surrounding areas, reflecting the program's dedication to addressing health disparities and improving community health outcomes.