University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (USC/LA General) Program

The University of Southern California (USC)/Los Angeles General Medical Center (LAGMC) Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) offers a comprehensive training experience for residents in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The curriculum is structured to ensure rigorous clinical exposure, academic development, and training in advanced reproductive technologies.

Program Structure

The REI fellowship spans 36 months and focuses exclusively on reproductive endocrinology and infertility. Residents will engage in a series of clinical rotations that encompass core areas of the field, ensuring they obtain a solid foundation in both general and subspecialty obstetrics and gynecology.

The program provides training in multiple sites, which historically allows for an enriched exposure to diverse patient populations and clinical challenges, combining education from both an academic medical center and community hospitals. Rotations occur in various departments, including maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology, and reproductive endocrinology, thus allowing residents to build a well-rounded expertise that is essential for a career in OB/GYN.

Clinical Rotations

Residents participate in a variety of clinical rotations throughout their training. The program emphasizes hands-on experience in a high-volume settings, managing a wide range of conditions affecting women's health. Key rotations include:

• Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI): Residents will see a significant number of patients annually, and will be involved in procedures such as intrauterine insemination and diagnostic hysteroscopy.
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM): The training includes exposure to high-risk obstetric deliveries and antepartum care, allowing residents to develop skills in managing complex cases.
• Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology: Training in these areas focuses on surgical and medical management of gynecologic disorders, including critical care aspects.
• Advanced laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgery: Residents are provided with ample opportunities to enhance their surgical skills during their REI rotation.
• Research and scholarly activity: The program requires residents to complete and present at least one research project before graduation, encouraging involvement in evidence-based practices and future contributions to the field.

Curriculum

The curriculum is tailored to foster clinical knowledge, technical competence, and comprehensive understanding of reproductive health issues. Educational objectives include:

• Gaining the necessary skills to demonstrate competency in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, including appropriate clinical decision-making.
• Acquiring insight into basic research design and understanding statistical analyses to promote lifelong learning and improvement in clinical practices.
• Encouraging professionalism, communication, and ethical behavior in addressing patient needs.
• Enhancing systems-based practice skills to improve quality and efficiency in patient care.

Research Opportunities

Residents are actively encouraged to participate in research throughout their training. The program aims to foster academic curiosity, with opportunities to engage in projects related to reproductive health, clinical outcomes, and educational practices. The location also allows for collaboration with other departments and institutions.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within its residency program. The curriculum promotes cultural competency, allowing residents to work effectively with diverse populations. This commitment is reflected in the patient demographics at LAGMC, which serves a vast array of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship specifically for J-1 Visa applicants. International medical graduates must demonstrate their eligibility by providing proof of residency status in the U.S. if they are not U.S. citizens.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a common application through ResidencyCAS, including the following:

• Personal Statement
• Curriculum Vitae
• Dean’s Letter
• Medical School Transcripts
• USMLE transcripts (Step 1 and Step 2) – passing scores are required for DO applicants
• 2-3 Letters of Recommendation (including one from an OB/GYN faculty member)

There is no requirement based on the number of years since graduation and no specified minimum score for USMLE exams. However, it is important to note that only applicants with a J-1 visa can apply.

Competitiveness

The USC/LA General Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility is considered a competitive program, attracting a diverse pool of applicants. The residency program seeks to balance academic accolades and clinical skills while valuing background diversity including applicants from DO and International Medical Graduate (IMG) backgrounds.

Benefits and Salary

Residents benefit from a variety of institutional support offerings, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Malpractice insurance coverage
• Monthly salary, ranging with postgraduate years
• Meal provisions while on duty
• Generous vacation policies

Training Sites

The main training site for the program is Los Angeles General Medical Center complemented by rotations at additional institutions including Keck Hospital of USC, Good Samaritan Hospital, Kaiser Permanente Panorama City, and Huntington Memorial Hospital. This diversity of training environments allows residents to gain insight into varied practice techniques, socioeconomic considerations, and healthcare delivery models.

Overall, the USC/LAGMC REI Program is structured to provide an enriching educational experience that prepares residents for independent practice in a subspecialty they are passionate about, under the guidance of esteemed faculty and amid a supportive environment.