University of Hawaii Program

Overview of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship

The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at the University of Hawaii offers advanced training in obstetrics and gynecology with a focus on managing high-risk pregnancies. It is designed for physicians seeking to become specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, which encompasses both clinical practice and research in prenatal care, obstetric complications, and perinatal outcomes. The program is jointly sponsored by the University of Hawaii and Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children, located in Honolulu.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship is comprehensive, combining clinical experiences with academic learning. Trainees engage in various rotations that include:

• Clinical Rotations: Fellows rotate through different services where they manage high-risk obstetric patients, perform consultations, and participate in deliveries under supervision.
• Didactic Sessions: Regular educational seminars and conferences are integrated into the program, covering topics related to prenatal diagnosis, obstetric management, and neonatal care.
• Research Training: Each fellow is expected to engage in clinical or basic science research, culminating in presentations at national conferences or publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Training Sites

The fellowship primarily utilizes two key training sites:

• Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children: This center provides a rich clinical environment with an extensive patient population requiring specialized obstetric care.
• Queen's Medical Center: Another vital training site where fellows gain experience in complex cases and collaborative care with other medical specialties.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellows to pursue original research projects, offering a supportive environment to explore various topics in maternal-fetal medicine. Research opportunities are facilitated by faculty who are active in investigating clinical outcomes and advancements in prenatal care practices.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The program supports international applicants by providing visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas. Such support is essential for non-U.S. citizens wishing to participate in the fellowship.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship is considered highly competitive. Applicants typically need to demonstrate strong academic performance in medical school and relevant clinical experience in obstetrics and gynecology. Specific application requirements may include:

• A completed residency in obstetrics and gynecology.
• A maximum of one failed USMLE Step exam may be accepted; however, each case is evaluated on specificity.
• Candidates may be required to submit additional documents, such as publications or research experiences.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One unique feature of the fellowship is the emphasis on cultural competency, given the diverse population of Hawaii. Fellows are trained to understand and address the needs of various cultural groups within the community, enhancing their capacity for providing personalized care.