SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Program

The postgraduate program in obstetrics and gynecology at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University is a comprehensive four-year residency designed to advance the training of six residents at each level. The program is primarily conducted at Kings County Hospital and the University Hospital at Downstate, which collectively handle around 4000 deliveries and 1700 gynecologic procedures annually. This robust clinical exposure is vital for residents as they gain broad training in obstetrics and gynecology, along with valuable insights into subspecialty areas such as Gynecologic Oncology, Family Planning, Reproductive Endocrinology-Infertility, Urogynecology, and Maternal-Fetal Medicine 1.

Residents participating in this program are involved in core obstetric and gynecologic services and are expected to engage actively in teaching and research throughout their training. They are appointed to the teaching staff of the School of Medicine, allowing them to contribute to medical student education 1.

Each resident is entitled to four weeks of vacation yearly, health and disability insurance, scrubs, and access to on-call rooms. Additionally, if a resident presents a research paper at a national meeting, costs associated with attendance are covered by the department. For those driving to the hospital, parking is available for a modest monthly fee 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency's structured curriculum includes multiple rotations across the four years, designed to enhance surgical skills and clinical proficiency. In the first year (PGY-1), residents will rotate through Labor and Delivery and Gynecology services, extracting experience in minor surgeries such as Laparoscopic Tubal Sterilizations and Diagnostic Laparoscopy 1.

During the second year (PGY-2), residents gain experience in Gynecologic Oncology, improve their surgical techniques, and begin to conduct Repeat Cesarean Sections 1. The third year (PGY-3) involves further refinement of skills in Gynecologic procedures and management of Labor and Delivery, with an emphasis on increased autonomy 1.

Finally, the fourth year (PGY-4) focuses on leadership roles, where chief residents teach and supervise junior house officers and medical students, while refining clinical and surgical skills in preparation for fellowship or independent practice 1.

Research and Didactics

The program places a significant emphasis on research, allowing residents to engage in various studies throughout their training. Residents are encouraged to identify a research topic early on, ensuring they can present findings at conferences or in publications 1.

Didactic training is integrated within the schedule, including Monday morning Chair Rounds, Grand Rounds, and Resident Didactic Lectures, along with regular perinatal conferences 4.

Living in Brooklyn

Brooklyn, known for its diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings, provides residents with a vibrant living environment. Many residents choose to reside in areas such as Park Slope or Fort Greene, offering a range of dining options, parks like Prospect Park and natural beauty 2. The area's rich performing arts scene and proximity to Manhattan ensure fulfilling extracurricular activities during training 2.

Application and Competitiveness

The application process through ERAS requires a completed application including a minimum of two letters of recommendation, a 2x2 photograph, medical school transcript, Dean's letter, and National Board scores. There is no explicit maximum on failed STEP exams mentioned, making the program potentially friendly towards a diverse applicant pool, including DO and IMG candidates 5.

Formal interviews are conducted by invitation only after the Education Sub-Committee reviews applications submitted before the deadline of November 10, and interviews occur in December and January 1.

Visa Support

The residency program supports visa applications for international medical graduates, commonly accepting J-1 and H-1B visa statuses. This assists eligible candidates seeking to train in a diverse and vibrant environment at SUNY Downstate 5.