University of Puerto Rico Program

The University of Puerto Rico, School of Medicine (UPR) offers a comprehensive residency program in Obstetrics and Gynecology. This four-year program is designed to give residents a well-balanced education, and it has received Continuous Accreditation from the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) 1.

The program admits a maximum of five residents per year and is highly competitive. Candidates are required to have graduated from accredited medical schools and must submit applications through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is designed to comply with the CREOG Educational Objectives and is framed around the ACGME's competencies and milestones 1. The training is comprehensive and covers:

• Women's primary care and preventive care
• Gynecologic surgery
• Normal and high-risk obstetrics
• Subspecialties such as urogynecology, reproductive endocrinology, and gynecologic oncology

Residents undergo structured clinical rotations throughout their years in the program:

Master Program Rotations

• PGY 1: Labor Room, Antepartum Ward, Gynaecology Clinics, Emergency Room duties.
• PGY 2: Enhanced responsibilities in Labor and Antepartum Wards alongside exposure to Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.
• PGY 3: In-depth experience in outpatient clinics and procedures corresponding to gynecological oncology.
• PGY 4: Final year focusing on managing complex cases and preparing for independent practice.

After completing the program, graduates will be well-prepared for board certification by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral component of the residency. Each resident is expected to complete an original research project, which begins in their first year and continues through the third year. This involves developing a research topic, conducting a study, and ultimately publishing the findings 1. The structured timeline enables residents to gain substantial research experience, crucial for their future careers.

Application Requirements

To apply for a residency position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Graduation from an LCME-accredited school of medicine
• Completion of both USMLE Step 1 and 2 (CS & CK) within a maximum of two attempts
• Two letters of recommendation, preferably from faculty in Ob-Gyn
• Submission of the ERAS and NRMP applications including an official transcript from medical school
• ECFMG certification for international medical graduates 2.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is required.

A junior internship in the service is highly recommended for applicants 2.

Visa Sponsorship

The program provides strong support for international medical graduates, including assistance with visa processes. The types of visas that can be sponsored include J-1 and H-1B visas. This makes it accessible for qualified foreign applicants looking to pursue a career in obstetrics and gynecology within the United States 1.

Competitiveness and Diversity

One notable aspect of the program is its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The program actively promotes a non-discriminatory environment, welcoming candidates from various backgrounds. The competitiveness is evident, with graduates often excelling in securing fellowship positions at well-regarded institutions 2.

Benefits and Conditions of Employment

The residency program offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical insurance coverage
• Four weeks of vacation per year
• Maternity and paternity leave policies
• Education grants

Overall, the program is committed to fostering personal growth and professional competency among its residents, making it a desirable option for those pursuing a career in Obstetrics and Gynecology 1.