Trinity Health Oakland/Wayne State University Program

Program Overview

The Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program at Trinity Health Oakland has a proud history, receiving initial approval from the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) in 1998 and transitioning to ACGME accreditation. Currently, the program is approved for 16 positions, admitting four residents annually to train at a 497-bed community hospital located in Pontiac, Michigan.

Trinity Health Oakland stands out as a Level II Trauma Center and boasts a Level III NICU. The facility also includes specialized areas for Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, ensuring residents engage in a rich, hands-on learning experience throughout their four years of training. The program has benefited from significant investments over recent years, including updates to the Surgical Pavilion and the addition of modern technologies, such as Davinci Robots for minimally invasive surgeries.

The mission of the program aligns with the overall Trinity Health Mission, focusing on delivering compassionate care while enhancing community health outcomes. The residency aims to produce highly competent OB/GYN physicians who are also empathetic and lifelong learners looking to address broader social determinants of health.

Curriculum and Training Opportunities

The residency program provides an extensive curriculum that aims to ensure trainees achieve both academic and clinical excellence. It features structured lectures along with protected time designated for didactics. Additionally, the program cultivates the residents' abilities through the completion of various quality improvement and research projects by the end of their training.

Residents benefit from access to comprehensive academic resources through collaborations with Michigan State University’s Statewide Campus System and the Southeast Michigan Center for Medical Education. Specific learning experiences include specialty conferences and workshops throughout their training:

• PGY I: Fetal Assessment Ultrasound Course, Colposcopy Research Series, Laparoscopic Simulation.
• PGY II: Postgraduate Series, Surgical Anatomy/Cadaver Sessions, Mock Oral Exams.
• PGY III & IV: Robotic Simulation, Transition to Practice courses, Board Review.

Clinical Rotations

The primary clinical training site for the residency is Trinity Health Oakland Hospital, which provides wide-ranging exposure to both laparotomy and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Residents also gain experience at Trinity Health Livonia Hospital, focusing on urogynecology and gynecologic oncology during their third and fourth years of training. This blend of sites familiarizes residents with various patient care settings and surgical techniques necessary for comprehensive residency training.

Research Opportunities

The residency emphasizes research with strong support from the Trinity Health Oakland Research Department. The program boasts an active Institutional Review Board and provides residents with education on IRB submission processes, critical thinking, and manuscript development. Opportunities for clinical research vary widely, with current studies focusing on cardiovascular health, neurology, and COVID-19 treatments.

Application Process and Eligibility

For prospective applicants, the program prefers recent medical graduates who completed their studies within the last two years and passed COMLEX or USMLE Step I and II on their first attempt. Moreover, only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible, as the program does not sponsor visas. Each year, the program fills four positions through the National Resident Matching Program.

Competitiveness and Support

The program has a highly competitive standing, seeking motivated candidates who demonstrate academic success and a commitment to community service. It does not have a stated maximum number of failed STEP exams but emphasizes strong performance in required examinations. There is no provision for visa sponsorship, making it essential for applicants to meet the residency’s citizenship requirements.

Resident Life

Residents report a supportive, family-oriented environment that encourages social interaction and camaraderie among peers. The program values diversity and fosters an environment where residents support one another through both professional and personal challenges.

Community Engagement

In alignment with its mission, the residency program prioritizes community health by recognizing and addressing social determinants that affect patient healthcare. Residents are taught to be advocates for underserved populations, ensuring their training encompasses a holistic view of women's health.