UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
Maternal-fetal medicineACGME Code:
2302422005The program in Maternal-Fetal Medicine at UMass Chan Medical School prepares fellows for a successful career as subspecialists in the field. The fellowship spans a total duration of three years, structured to encompass a comprehensive curriculum that integrates clinical experience, didactic learning, and research mentorship.
Curriculum Overview
Throughout the fellowship, fellows engage in a variety of rotations that equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary for advanced practice. The core curriculum includes: 5 months in ultrasound, 3 months in outpatient Maternal-Fetal Medicine, 3 months in inpatient antepartum care, 2 months of supervised labor and delivery, 2 months in genetics, and 2 elective months tailored to individual interests in the field. Additionally, fellows spend 1 month in a surgical Intensive Care Unit, receiving well-rounded exposure to high-acuity care. Each fellow benefits from dedicated research time, allowing for further development of investigative skills and academic pursuits during their training 2.
Research Opportunities
Fellows at UMass Chan Medical School are encouraged to pursue research that fuels their interests in the Maternal-Fetal Medicine domain. The program offers various options including randomized controlled trials, basic science projects, and qualitative studies, culminating in the opportunity to culminate their research efforts in a Master of Science in Clinical Investigation (MSCI). The program facilitates significant mentorship and guidance from faculty who are leaders in their respective research areas, promoting an environment where fellows can thrive academically 1.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The UMass Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship stands out through its robust educational approach, which encourages fellows to explore diverse interests within the field. There is a strong focus on the clinical care of complex pregnancies, integrated with practical experiences in various specialized clinics such as the Diabetes in Pregnancy clinic and a multidisciplinary fetal specialty clinic, offering fellows hands-on exposure to challenging cases 1.
Training Sites and Patient Care
The fellowship is hosted at UMass Memorial Medical Center, which serves as a tertiary care hospital equipped with a busy labor and delivery unit and critical care obstetrics. The facility supports nearly 5,000 deliveries annually, providing fellows with ample opportunities to encounter and manage a broad spectrum of perinatal conditions and complexities. The training ethos promotes comprehensive and compassionate care for high-risk pregnancies, reinforced through collaborative partnerships with disciplines including neonatology 2.
Applicant Requirements
To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants are required to have completed an ACGME-accredited Obstetrics and Gynecology residency program and must anticipate eligibility for an unrestricted Massachusetts medical license before commencing the fellowship. Additionally, candidates are expected to provide three letters of recommendation and must achieve passing scores on USMLE Steps I, II (CK & CS), and III 2. An interview is also requisite for consideration, highlighting the program's selective nature.
Visa Support
The program is capable of providing visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates, specifically through J-1 visas, fostering a diverse and multicultural training environment.
Competitiveness and Community
The fellowship at UMass Chan Medical School prides itself on being highly competitive, welcoming applications from US and international graduates alike. The program seeks candidates who exhibit strong dedication to advancing reproductive health through clinical excellence, research innovation, and community advocacy 1.
Community and Global Outreach
Fellows are also encouraged to participate in numerous community outreach initiatives aimed at reducing disparities in reproductive health services and preserving health equity. Faculty members actively engage in global outreach missions, extending training opportunities for fellows interested in serving in underserved areas around the world 3.
Website
Director
Heidi K Leftwich, DOAssociate Professor - Fellowship Program Director, UMass Chan Medical School Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
65hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$84,050First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Worcester, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA is a diverse city with a lot to offer for residents. Here is an overview of what living in Worcester is like:
Crime Rate and Safety:
Worcester has a mid-range crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. While certain areas may have higher crime rates, overall the city is considered safe to live in.
Fun Activities:
Worcester offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. There are also numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city has a vibrant food scene with diverse dining options.
Climate:
Worcester has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Races and Population:
Worcester is a diverse city with a population of approximately 208,000 residents. The city has a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Education:
Worcester is home to several higher education institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clark University. The city also has a strong public school system for residents with children.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Worcester is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood, but overall, Worcester offers a more affordable living situation compared to nearby Boston.
Proximity to Bigger Cities:
Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, which is about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic. Boston offers additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents looking to explore a bigger city.
Pros and Cons:
One of the pros of living in Worcester is its diverse community and cultural attractions. However, one potential con could be the traffic congestion during peak times, especially when commuting to Boston.
Interview Questions
