University of California (Irvine) Program

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides a robust educational and clinical experience, emphasizing the necessity of advocacy and advanced training in complex family planning. Located within the only academic medical center in Orange County, UCI serves a diverse patient population and a community that recognizes the right to abortion and comprehensive reproductive care.

Program Overview

The UCI Complex Family Planning Fellowship is unique in its focused mission to train future leaders in reproductive health. The program is specifically designed to develop clinical, research, and advocacy skills vital for managing complex family planning cases. It operates within an institution recognized as both a Hispanic-serving and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institution.

Every year, one fellow is accepted into the two-year program at the PGY5 level. This program is especially attractive to candidates interested in intricate reproductive health issues, as the California legal context supports comprehensive family planning services, including abortion and contraceptive care.

Clinical Curriculum

The clinical curriculum offers exceptional training across diverse and high-volume clinical settings. Fellows participate in the UCI Medical Center, UCI Obstetrics and Gynecology clinics, and local Planned Parenthood settings. This ensures exposure to varied patient populations and clinical environments, fostering comprehensive management skills for patients with intricate reproductive health needs.

Key clinical training components include:

• Abortion Training: Fellows receive comprehensive instruction in all abortion techniques including medication abortions, dilation and evacuation, and termination placements.
• Complex Contraceptive Care: A dedicated complex contraception clinic allows fellows to manage referrals from multiple specialties, providing training in IUD and implant procedures.
• Management of Pregnancy of Unknown Location (PUL): Fellows will acquire skills in diagnosing and managing cases of PULs, miscarriages, and ectopic pregnancies.

Research and Additional Educational Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship, with fellows encouraged to engage in cutting-edge clinical research through interdisciplinary teams. The division provides a vast array of resources including biostatistical support and extensive mentorship opportunities in reproductive health projects.

Fellows will have access to national and international research training, including qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Opportunities for pursuing additional qualifications such as a Master's in Public Health or Clinical Research are available for those interested.

Application Process

Applications to the Complex Family Planning Fellowship are accepted online through the AAMC ERAS Program. Candidates must submit the following materials:

• Completed application
• Medical school transcript
• MSPE
• At least three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Photo
• USMLE scores

Visa Support and Requirements

The program supports applicants on J-1 visas, accommodating international medical graduates seeking training in the United States.

Competitiveness and Special Application Requirements

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship is considered highly competitive. Candidates from all backgrounds, including DO and IMG applicants, are valued, especially those with a commitment to reproductive justice and advocacy. Specific application requirements may include a limit on failed STEP examinations, typically emphasizing the importance of candidates passing all relevant examinations on their first attempt.

Fellows are encouraged to develop a deep understanding of reproductive health challenges and to emerge as advocates within the community. The UCI Complex Family Planning Fellowship invites dedicated individuals eager to join a transformative training environment.