University of Kansas School of Medicine Program

The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at the University of Kansas School of Medicine is a fully accredited three-year program that provides rigorous training in both the maternal and fetal aspects of the specialty. The program is situated within a comprehensive healthcare setting, notably as the primary tertiary referral center for the state of Kansas. This unique positioning allows fellows to manage a diverse range of maternal and fetal complications, enhancing their educational experience.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship encompasses a structured curriculum designed to meet the guidelines set forth by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). The training schedule is divided as follows:

• Clinical Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM): 18 months dedicated to core clinical rotations including inpatient care, outpatient services, ultrasound, and genetic/genomics.
• Research: 12 months designated for fellows to engage in research activities, allowing for the completion of a required thesis project by the program's conclusion. Fellows can pursue various fundamental and clinical research projects.
• Labor and Delivery: 2 months serving as the attending physician, divided into four blocks over three years.
• Subspecialty Rotations: 2 months covering specialty areas such as NICU, anesthesia, and pathology in brief, six-week blocks.
• Electives: 6 months to choose additional rotations or research time tailored to individual interests.

Additionally, fellows have the opportunity to earn a Master of Science in Clinical Research, with courses covering epidemiology, biostatistics, trial design, and grant writing.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to undertake significant research projects pertinent to their professional goals. The fellowship collaborates with The Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, providing access to extensive research resources and mentorship from experienced faculty. Current research includes topics such as maternal healthcare disparities and fetal health outcomes.

Training Faculty

A diverse group of faculty leads the fellowship, providing mentorship and expertise across various areas of maternal-fetal medicine.

Salary and Benefits

Fellows receive comprehensive benefits including group health insurance, professional development funds to attend conferences, and 15 vacation days and 10 sick days annually. These benefits contribute to a supportive working environment focused on both personal well-being and professional advancement.

Application Process

To apply, candidates must submit applications via the ERAS system including official medical transcripts, a personal statement, and multiple letters of recommendation. Notably, applicants must possess a valid ECFMG certificate if they graduated from a medical school outside the United States or Canada. The program actively encourages a diverse applicant pool, showing friendliness towards DO and IMG candidates.

Visa and Sponsorship

The fellowship can sponsor certain visa types for international medical graduates (IMGs), though it is important to clarify that applicants needing visa sponsorship must meet specific program criteria.

Competitiveness

The application process for the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship is competitive, thus it is advisable for interested candidates to strengthen their applications through clinical experience and research participation.

Visiting Residents

For those considering the fellowship, the program offers visiting resident rotations to experience the daily operations and training within the Maternal-Fetal Medicine division. This rotation lasts four weeks and gives participants exposure to various clinical and educational opportunities.

Overall, the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at the University of Kansas School of Medicine prepares its fellows for successful careers in academia and clinical practice by providing comprehensive training, a rich research environment, and dedicated faculty support.