Texas Tech University HSC El Paso Program

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso offers a comprehensive residency program in Obstetrics and Gynecology that is fully approved and integrated over four years, meeting all certification requirements set by The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The program is designed to progressively increase the resident’s responsibilities in both medical and surgical care as they advance in their training.

There are five available positions each year in the residency program, which is highlighted by a balanced curriculum that incorporates education, hands-on training, and clinical research. This thorough preparation aims to equip residents for various future pathways, including academic positions, fellowships, or successful private practice.

Under the guidance of 21 faculty members, including 15 physicians, two certified nurse midwives, and one women's health nurse practitioner, residents receive direct supervision and a well-rounded education throughout the program.

Curriculum and Rotations

The program's curriculum is structured into four years, with each year featuring a series of rotations that build upon one another:

PGY-1

The first year comprises rotations through various medical services to establish foundational skills in primary medicine and preventive care. Rotations include:

• Family Practice (1 month)
• Surgical Intensive Care Unit (1 month)
• Emergency Medicine (2 weeks)
• Gynecology (1 month + 2 weeks)
• Labor and Delivery (6 months)
• Ambulatory GYN (1 month + 2 weeks)
• Breast (2 weeks)

PGY-2

During the second year, residents take on greater responsibilities, gaining more autonomy in managing the labor and delivery unit under constant faculty supervision and performing office gynecologic procedures. Key rotations include:

• Labor and Delivery (5 months + 2 weeks)
• Gynecology (2 months)
• Gynecologic Oncology (2 months + 2 weeks)
• Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (1 month)
• Ambulatory GYN (1 month)

PGY-3

In the third year, residents further hone their surgical skills and take on a supervisory role. Rotations include:

• Labor and Delivery (3 months)
• Gynecology (2 weeks)
• Gynecology/WBAMC (2 months + 2 weeks)
• Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (1 month)
• Ambulatory GYN (1 month)
• Urogynecology (1 month)
• Maternal/Fetal Medicine (2 months)

PGY-4

Chief residents in the fourth year lead and refine their management and surgical skills, including gynecologic oncology treatment. The rotations are similar to PGY-3 with additional leadership responsibilities.

Residents work an average of 80 hours per week, with specific limits on continuous work hours to ensure well-being.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral component of the residency experience. Residents are expected to conduct a clinical research project in collaboration with faculty mentors, culminating in a presentation during the third year at the Resident's Research Day. This project allows residents to identify meaningful topics and develop their research skills in a supportive environment.

Resident Support

Each resident is paired with a faculty mentor from the start, fostering guidance throughout the program. Regular meetings ensure that residents receive academic support, track procedural skills, and receive any personal guidance they may need. Additionally, the Texas Tech House Staff Association aids residents in addressing any training-related issues they may encounter. The Employee Assistance Program provides confidential counseling and referral services free of charge, further enhancing resident well-being.

Application Process

Applications for the residency program are accepted through ResidencyCAS and must be completed by a specified date. Candidates must hold a degree from an accredited medical school and be U.S. citizens to participate in mandatory rotations at military facilities. The application package includes a medical school transcript, letters of recommendation, and proof of passing relevant exams. A highly competitive candidate profile is essential for selection.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship options for eligible international medical graduates seeking to train in the United States. This support enhances accessibility for diverse applicants, thereby enriching the educational environment.

Competitiveness

The residency program has a reputation for being highly competitive, particularly for U.S. medical graduates, while also welcoming DO and IMG applicants, providing an inclusive environment that values diverse backgrounds and experiences.