UPMC Medical Education Program

Fellowship Overview

The Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (REI) Fellowship Training Program at UPMC Medical Education, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital is a highly structured three-year fellowship accredited by the ACGME and approved by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The program only offers one position per year, making it quite competitive in admissions.

Fellows are immersed in patient care and procedures related to assisted reproductive technology from the onset of their training. The fellowship’s first year focuses on clinical and surgical skills, featuring off-service rotations in pediatric and adolescent gynecology, male urology, medical endocrinology, pediatric endocrinology, and midlife care.

Curriculum Details

The fellowship is uniquely structured to balance clinical, research, and didactic education. The first year is predominantly clinical and surgical, equipping fellows with advanced skills in operative hysteroscopy and laparoscopy. The second year transitions into a research-focused phase, dedicating 18 uninterrupted months towards research and completing a thesis requirement for subspecialty certification.

From July 2022, the required research block will include a 12-month focused research period, with the remaining 6 months adjustable for either clinical education or research, enabling fellows to tailor their experience according to their interests.

Didactics and Research Training

Formal educational opportunities are both numerous and varied within the REI Fellowship. Fellows participate in two to three hours of didactics weekly, and they engage in departmental Grand Rounds and journal clubs. The fellowship is enriched with opportunities to complete graduate coursework in areas like biostatistics and clinical research methodology through the University of Pittsburgh's Institute for Clinical Research Education REACH Program.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the REI fellowship is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Specific application materials include a complete online application, CV, personal statement, medical school performance evaluations, and letters of recommendation. Particularly, four letters of recommendation are required, ideally including one from the chairman of the residency training department.

Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate substantial evidence of commitment to the specialty, although specific quotas for failed examinations do not exist.

Competitiveness and Visa Support

This fellowship is highly competitive, especially given its limited position availability per year. The program is noted for being friendly toward both DO and IMG candidates. Regarding visa sponsorship, the fellowship typically supports J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating applications from international candidates.

Current Fellows and Professional Development

Professional development is a critical part of the fellowship's mission. The program aims to cultivate competencies that will allow fellows to transition into independent REI practitioners with robust medical, surgical, and procedural skills. Current fellows participate actively in a mentorship environment, fostering a culture of excellence, professionalism, and compassion.

Summary of Fellowship Features

The Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility fellowship at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital offers a comprehensive training program focusing on:

• Clinical Training: Direct patient care in a high-volume setting fostering surgical and procedural skills.
• Research Commitment: Structured research training aimed at producing competent researchers in the field.
• Didactic Education: A robust framework of formal educational experiences throughout the fellowship duration to ensure continuous learning.
• Professional Growth: Leadership opportunities and the chance to contribute to innovative practices within women's health.