UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program

Overview of the Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellowship Program

The Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellowship Program at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine is a fully accredited program by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program is focused on developing highly skilled clinicians who are not only adept at managing reproductive hormone-related issues but also proficient in addressing infertility challenges. The fellowship duration is three years, where the first 18 months emphasize intensive clinical training, complemented by another 18 months dedicated to research. The clinical component occurs at both UCLA facilities in Westwood and Santa Monica as well as in a private practice environment. Throughout the training, fellows will have the opportunity to apply for the Specialty Training and Advanced Research (STAR) program, which affords additional academic and research opportunities.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The fellowship is designed to provide essential clinical training and robust research experience. The first half of the program is tailored for immersive clinical exposure covering various facets of reproductive endocrinology, including but not limited to infertility treatments, menstrual disorders, and reproductive hormone replacement therapies. In the second half, fellows engage in an intensive research project that is expected to culminate in a thesis suitable for board certification purposes.

All fellows are required to defend their thesis through a formal presentation and complete it in a format suitable for publication. This structured approach prepares fellows not just academically but also equips them with practical skills in clinical environments relevant to reproductive health.

Clinical Training

Fellows receive comprehensive training through a diverse clinical environment that includes outpatient clinics and inpatient settings. Clinical training involves surgical and medical management of infertility, advanced reproductive technologies, and the endocrinological aspects related to reproduction. During clinical rotations, fellows will also get exposure to vital procedures such as hysteroscopy and laparoscopy, enhancing their surgical proficiency. The program fosters an environment for progressive responsibility where fellows manage patient care while being supervised by attending physicians.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship. Fellows are paired with faculty mentors whose research interests align with their own, facilitating the opportunity to engage in areas such as reproductive endocrinology, infertility treatments, and novel therapies. The program emphasizes the importance of presenting research findings at various professional conferences, including the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility conferences.

Application Process and Requirements

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must submit their application materials through the ERAS system. This includes three letters of recommendation from individuals who can assess the candidate's clinical capabilities and prospective future in reproductive endocrinology. Medical school performance evaluations, transcripts, and USMLE scores are also required. Foreign medical graduates must provide additional documentation such as ECFMG certification and related exam scores. The application deadline is set for May 1 of the year of entry, with interviews scheduled shortly thereafter to gain comprehensive insight into both the candidate's fit and interest in the program.

Competitiveness and Eligibility

The fellowship program is highly competitive, attracting a wide pool of applicants, including U.S. citizens and those in the ECFMG J1 visa category. Applicants are expected to have completed a minimum of 36 months of ACGME-accredited residency training. For candidates with a foreign medical degree or international medical graduates (IMGs), it is crucial to ensure all documentation, including transcripts and USMLE scores, is duly submitted along with the standard application materials.

Salary and Benefits

Fellows are compensated according to current rates established for PGY 4 and PGY 5 levels. Comprehensive benefits are provided, including group health and dental insurance for the fellows and their eligible dependents. Vacation time is generous, with 28 days (equivalent to 4 weeks) scheduled during non-inpatient blocks. Such generous time off aims to support the fellows’ work-life balance while pursuing their training.

Living in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is not only the second-largest city in the United States but also a multicultural hub brimming with opportunities for leisure and professional engagement. The UCLA-VA Endocrine Fellowship Program is situated moments away from abundant cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities, spanning art galleries, theaters, live music venues, and diverse dining options. Additionally, UCLA's proximity to outdoor activities like beaches, hiking trails, and beautiful parks offers fellows a chance to enjoy a balanced lifestyle outside of their rigorous training.