University of Rochester Medical Center Program

The University of Rochester’s Obstetrics & Gynecology Residency Program offers comprehensive training since its inception in 1954, focusing on clinical excellence, education, and the development of future leaders in the specialty. The program is dedicated to a holistic approach in training obstetrician-gynecologists, guided by the University’s motto "Meliora" which means "ever better." This ensures that residents not only acquire essential medical skills but also engage in an environment conducive to personal and professional growth.

The program features rotations at two primary institutions: Strong Memorial Hospital, the university hospital, and Highland Hospital, a community-based facility. This dual-hospital training exposes residents to a wide range of clinical scenarios and patient populations, helping them build a robust clinical foundation.1

Curriculum

The residency curriculum is structured across four years, with each year progressively increasing the resident’s scope of practice and responsibility. The core rotations include obstetrics, gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology, and reproductive endocrinology, among others. Residents typically rotate through various disciplines in 2-6 week blocks, allowing for focused learning and continuity of care with patients and faculty.

PGY-1 residents are primarily trained in routine gynecologic and obstetric care, managing normal labor and delivery, and developing essential surgical skills.4 As residents advance to PGY-2 and PGY-3, they encounter more complex obstetric and gynecologic cases, enhancing their surgical and clinical capabilities. The final year, PGY-4, focuses on comprehensive management roles within the service, enhancing leadership skills and advanced surgical techniques.5

Training Sites and Facilities

The program is anchored by two key training sites—Strong Memorial Hospital and Highland Hospital. Strong Memorial serves as the only Level IV NICU in the region, with Golisano Children's Hospital offering a full range of pediatric subspecialty support.6 Highland Hospital allows residents to engage with a diverse population in a collaborative community setting. The significant volume of surgical cases and deliveries, approximately 5,000 surgical cases and over 5,700 deliveries annually, further enriches the training experience.7

Research and Scholarly Activity

Research is integral to the residency experience at the University of Rochester. Each resident is encouraged to engage in scholarly activities, exemplified by a longitudinal research curriculum throughout the four years.8 While there is no dedicated research block, residents can allocate elective time to pursue their research interests, particularly in areas related to reproductive health and innovations in obstetrics and gynecology.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program emphasizes a commitment to reproductive justice and comprehensive training in abortion care, with robust family planning services embedded within the curriculum.9 The training also includes advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques, ensuring that residents graduate with proficiency in both traditional and innovative surgical practices.

The program frequently conducts quarterly Resident Assemblies to assess resident experiences and modify the curriculum based on feedback, ensuring that the training remains responsive to the needs of the residents.10

Resident Life and Support

Resident well-being is a forefront priority at the University of Rochester. The program emphasizes work/life balance and has several initiatives in place to foster a supportive community among residents. Residents frequently participate in team-building activities and retreats to enhance camaraderie.11 Dedicated educational specialists are available to assist with creating individualized learning plans and to provide academic resources.12

Application and Competitiveness

The residency program is highly competitive, welcoming both MD and DO graduates. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) can apply, given they meet specific criteria, including a J-1 visa sponsorship. This program does not currently sponsor H-1B visas.13 It is notable that applicants must pass Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE for MD candidates, and COMLEX Level 1 and Level 2 for DO candidates, before the application process.14

Furthermore, there are no restrictions regarding graduation years or a maximum number of failed STEP exams; however, candidates who graduated from medical school within the last five years are preferred. The selection process favors those who demonstrate a commitment to obstetrics and gynecology through robust academic and clinical experiences.