University of Utah Health Program

The University of Utah Health Program in Obstetrics and Gynecology offers a comprehensive residency training program based in Salt Lake City, designed to develop residents into proficient clinical practitioners. The residency curriculum emphasizes evidence-based medicine and fosters a supportive environment emphasizing resident well-being and professional development.

Program Overview

The mission of the program is to serve the community by improving the health and quality of life among individuals within Utah and the Intermountain West. The program seeks to cultivate well-rounded obstetricians and gynecologists capable of providing a full range of women's health care with skill and compassion. A distinctive feature of the program is its commitment to training residents in abortion care through participation in the Ryan Residency Training Program, with an emphasis on the importance of options counseling, complex D&Cs, and complication management in obstetrics.

Residents engage in a variety of clinical experiences across numerous specialty areas within obstetrics and gynecology, including high-risk obstetrics, gynecologic oncology, reproductive endocrinology, and urogynecology.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency consists of structured rotations over four years. Each year is designed to progressively enhance clinical knowledge, skills, and decision-making abilities.

PGY-1

The first year emphasizes the foundation of medical knowledge and includes rotations in labor and delivery, gynecologic services, surgical ICU, and emergency medicine. Residents participate in a dedicated two-month ultrasound rotation and a rural/underserved rotation to familiarize themselves with community health needs.

PGY-2

The second year focuses on high-risk obstetric care and advanced gynecologic surgery. Residents have expanded clinic rotations in colposcopy and high-risk obstetric clinics, along with the opportunity for research or clinical electives.

PGY-3

The third year emphasizes gynecology, offering exposure to reproductive endocrinology and family planning. Residents can undertake elective rotations tailored to individual interests, including global health experiences.

PGY-4

The final year prioritizes leadership and proficiency, as chief residents supervise clinical services and have administrative responsibilities.

Comprehensive didactic sessions and case conferences are scheduled throughout the training to enhance knowledge retention and application.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral component of the residency experience. Residents engage in clinical research projects designed to bolster evidence-based practice. Program faculty provide extensive support, including mentorship, access to research resources, and opportunities to present findings at conferences. The Utah Stimulating Access to Research in Residency (Utah StARR) program further encourages academic development, enabling participation in specialized research training workshops and mentorship pairings.

Resident Well-Being

The program places a strong emphasis on promoting resident well-being through various initiatives. Social activities, wellness sessions, and a supportive faculty-student ecosystem are designed to foster connection and resilience among trainees. Monthly sessions focusing on mental health, wellness, and teamwork skills are structured to enhance personal and professional growth.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Admission into the residency program is competitive, with a favorable stance towards both International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic graduates. Candidates must hold a current ECFMG certificate or have completed one full year of residency training in the United States. Completion of USMLE Steps I, II, and III is required, with no more than one failed attempt on any step.

Qualified applicants are typically selected on personal attributes including motivation, communication skills, and academic performance.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible resident candidates, including support for J-1 visas for international medical graduates. This allows a broader pool of applicants to access the residency program without immigration barriers.

Living in Utah

Salt Lake City presents a vibrant living environment, offering residents numerous outdoor recreational activities such as skiing, hiking, and national park explorations. Salt Lake City also boasts cultural events, dining options, and a community-focused atmosphere, contributing to a well-rounded residency experience.