University of Virginia Medical Center Program

The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at the University of Virginia Medical Center is a three-year training program aiming to produce leaders in the field of Maternal-Fetal Medicine. The program is structured to develop fellows into competent and confident physicians prepared for an academic career.

Program Overview

The fellowship accepts one trainee per year, offering a unique opportunity for personalized education and mentorship. The division consists of several experienced Maternal-Fetal Medicine physicians, providing a dynamic array of expertise and training in various aspects of maternal care 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship includes a well-structured curriculum that encompasses clinical rotations, research, and dedicated training in maternal-fetal care.

Yearly Breakdown

• Year 1: Focus on clinical rotations, including Labor & Delivery, outpatient management of high-risk pregnancies, and Fetal Care Center rotations.
• Year 2: Primarily dedicated to conducting research, developing research questions, and possibly participating in other clinical trials and studies within the field.
• Year 3: Return to clinical rotations with opportunities for electives and further research involvement.

The Labor & Delivery rotation is integral for fellows to gain expertise in managing complex maternal-fetal medicine patients. Fellows are closely supervised while acting as the primary attending on the unit, thereby enhancing their clinical decision-making skills under real-world conditions 4.

Research Opportunities

Research is heavily emphasized throughout the program. Fellows are required to complete and defend a thesis before graduation. In their first year, fellows are afforded time to explore their research interests, with guidance from a mentor to develop a research protocol. The second year is primarily devoted to executing the research project, with encouragement to publish and present findings at national conferences 4.

Application Requirements

Prospective fellows must have completed an ACGME or AOA accredited Obstetrics and Gynecology residency and passed the USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3. The program is open to international medical graduates, with Visa support provided specifically for J-1 visas, necessitating ECFMG certification and proficiency in English 2.

Application materials include:

• ERAS application
• Medical school transcript
• USMLE transcript
• Medical school performance evaluation (Dean’s letter)
• Three letters of recommendation, including one from a Maternal-Fetal Medicine faculty member
• Personal statement

Competitiveness

The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship program is recognized as competitive. Applications are open to both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates, making the program inclusive and welcoming while maintaining high standards in candidate selection 3.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A distinct feature of the fellowship is its intimate and supportive training environment, which fosters both personal and professional growth. The program emphasizes the importance of mentorship, ensuring that fellows receive guidance from experienced faculty members throughout their training 1.

Moreover, the program is located in Charlottesville, Virginia, a region known for its historical significance, scenic beauty, and vibrant cultural life which contributes positively to the fellows' living experience 4.