Tripler Army Medical Center Program

Program Overview

The Tripler Army Medical Center Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program offers a comprehensive four-year training in obstetric and gynecologic medicine, fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, this program prepares residents for dynamic careers as competent physicians capable of delivering expert care and contributing to advances in the field through education and research.

The program has a total approved complement of 20 residents, accepting up to 5 each year. It involves extensive clinical training primarily within Tripler Army Medical Center, which serves a diverse patient population drawn from various military and civilian backgrounds.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency curriculum is structured to provide a broad range of experiences across obstetrics and gynecology, with rotations designed to meet the core competencies established by ACGME. Residents undergo training in diverse medical environments, including 3rd and 4th-year medical student rotations available through the program.

During the residency, the rotations are organized as follows:

• PGY-1: Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Medicine, Labor and Delivery, Maternal Fetal Medicine, General Gynecology.
• PGY-2: Labor and Delivery, Gynecologic Oncology, Maternal Fetal Medicine, clinical rotations at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center.
• PGY-3: Advanced clinical exposure including rotations at William Beaumont Army Medical Center or Anne Arundel Medical Center.
• PGY-4: Complex Gynecology procedures, Urogynecology, and clinical experiences at Legacy Health Systems.

Residents also have opportunities to participate in globally focused medical experiences through the Pacific Island Health Care Program and engage in collaborative practice models with certified nurse midwives.

Research and Scholarly Activities

The program emphasizes the development of scholarly activities and research. Each resident is required to participate in a structured research curriculum, which includes a timeline for identifying projects, data collection, and presentation of findings at various conferences. These activities are coordinated through biannual department research meetings.

Throughout the program, residents can present their research at the Armed Forces District Meeting of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, enhancing their profiles for future fellowship applications.

Teaching and Mentorship Opportunities

Residents are engaged in teaching opportunities, delivering lectures and mentoring junior colleagues, including medical students and interns. The faculty consists of military and civilian experts in various specialties, fostering a rich environment for education and mentorship.

Well-Being and Support

The program prioritizes the well-being of its residents, aligning with the principles of military service by maintaining a collegial and supportive environment. Regular meetings with program leadership, resident retreats, and wellness activities are part of monthly schedules aimed at promoting mental health and job satisfaction.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, typically supporting J-1 or H-1B visa types. The competitiveness of applicants is high; the program is structured to be DO/IMG friendly, welcoming exceptional candidates from diverse educational backgrounds.

Specific application requirements include completion of medical school, with an emphasis on maintaining a low threshold for failed STEP exams, ensuring that candidates meet rigorous academic standards.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The application process generally opens in the summer, with virtual interviews available, allowing potential residents to engage with faculty and residents. Successful graduates are eligible for board certification by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG), contributing to a strong professional standing post-residency.