Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center Program

The Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine is designed to equip residents with the comprehensive knowledge, skills, and professionalism necessary for independent practice in obstetrics and gynecology. This four-year program emphasizes a supportive environment to facilitate the transition from medical school to becoming proficient specialists.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum is structured to provide residents with comprehensive educational and clinical experiences. The focus is on early exposure to subspecialties during the first two years, including Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Gynecologic Oncology, Female Pelvic Medicine, and Reconstructive Surgery, among others. This early exposure enables residents to discover and explore potential career paths through hands-on experience and mentorship with faculty in their chosen areas of interest 1.

Training Locations

The primary training site for this residency is the Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, which features approximately 850 beds and serves as the main referral center in a tri-state area covering over 3 million people. Residents also train at various affiliated sites, including Forsyth Medical Center, a facility with a dedicated GYN surgery rotation, and other community hospitals providing diverse clinical experiences 3.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages residents to engage in research and quality improvement (QI) projects, ensuring that residents can contribute meaningfully to the field of obstetrics and gynecology while fulfilling their education and professional obligations. Faculty members actively mentor residents in these pursuits, promoting a culture of inquiry and improvement 6.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Residents benefit from a structured program emphasizing diversity and inclusion, ensuring learners from varied backgrounds feel supported and empowered. The program values the role of residents as educators early in their training, with dedicated time to teach medical students and other trainees 5.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The residency program is competitive, with applications only accepted through the ResidencyCAS platform. Applicants must submit USMLE Step 1 results, and although Step 2 is not required initially, it is encouraged. A minimum of three letters of recommendation is required, emphasizing the importance of one from an obstetrics and gynecology physician. The application process emphasizes a holistic review, meaning there is no strict minimum score requirement for these exams 4.

Visa Support and Application Types

The program supports international medical graduates with visa sponsorship. Typically, the program sponsors J-1 visas for those who qualify, ensuring that international residents have the necessary support to train in the United States 7.

Resident Life

Outside the rigors of training, residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle that promotes well-being and camaraderie. Activities include recreational outings such as hiking, trivia nights, and local market visits, fostering a sense of community within the residency group and contributing to a supportive training environment 8.

Faculty and Leadership

The residency is led by experienced faculty who are committed to clinical excellence, education, and community outreach. The faculty actively engages in learner development, offering guidance and mentorship throughout the residency journey 9.

Mission and Core Values

The mission of the residency program aligns with that of the sponsoring institution, focusing on scholarly values, research contributions, and community health improvement. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only competent clinicians but also advocates for underserved populations 10.