University of Pennsylvania Health System Program

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania Health System is an ACGME-accredited program aimed at cultivating the next generation of leaders in Complex Family Planning. The fellowship combines clinical, didactic, advocacy, and research training to provide comprehensive education and experience in abortion care, miscarriage management, early pregnancy complications, and complex contraception.

The fellows are integrated into Penn Medicine's extensive clinical programs, benefiting from the rich academic resources of both the medical school and the broader university community. The collaborative nature of this program promotes an environment where fellows can develop their research and advocacy skills while engaging with a diverse patient population, particularly those with complex medical needs, including underserved communities and individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Program Structure

The fellowship is structured over two years:

Year One

During the first year, fellows focus on building essential clinical skills through integration into clinical practices and participating in operative procedures. This year emphasizes first- and second-trimester abortion care, miscarriage management, early pregnancy complications, and complex contraceptive management. Additionally, fellows are encouraged to develop their research interests, culminating in a concept paper that will guide their research projects in the second year.

Year Two

The second year of the fellowship shifts to a more academic focus, allowing fellows to refine their career and leadership goals more specifically. Opportunities in external rotations are available, emphasizing leadership roles, contraceptive development, policy, rural abortion care, or global health. The research initiated in year one is expanded and prepared for publication, enabling fellows to gain independence in their clinical practice.

Clinical and Research Opportunities

The program provides fellows exposure to a comprehensive range of clinical experiences, as the fellowship's clinical practice acts as a safety net provider for abortion care and pregnancy complications in Philadelphia. The institution's strong connections with the reproductive health and justice community enhance the learning experience, facilitating collaboration in clinical care and advocacy.1

As part of their training, fellows participate in varied research initiatives that emphasize health equity and anti-racism efforts, aligned with a framework stressing reproductive justice. The fellowship encourages fellows to employ evidence-based practices within their research projects.

Application Information

The fellowship program is highly competitive, welcoming qualified applicants including DOs and IMGs. While specific cut-offs for applications may vary, candidates are generally expected to have completed a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and to possess a strong record in clinical performance and research. Full details regarding application processes, including the requirements for documentation, recommendations, and interviews, are available from the program.

Visa Sponsorship and Support

The program supports applicants requiring visa sponsorship. Typically, the most common visas sponsored are J-1 and H-1B visas for international medical graduates. The administrative team is experienced in navigating the visa process, providing guidance and resources to facilitate successful applications for residency.

Unique Aspects

One of the distinguishing features of the Complex Family Planning Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania is its focus on cultivating not just clinicians but also advocates and leaders in the field of reproductive health. The program prioritizes the development of skills necessary for leadership roles, enhancing fellows' proficiency in both clinical and advocacy settings.1

Additionally, the fellowship promotes active involvement in a vibrant interprofessional environment, enabling fellows to collaborate with individuals from various disciplines and specialties, thereby enriching their training experience.