Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program

The Fellowship in Complex Family Planning at Washington University in St. Louis is an ACGME-accredited, two-year post-residency training program. This program is designed to prepare medical professionals for careers in academic medicine with a focus on enhancing reproductive healthcare services, particularly for medically underserved populations. Under the guidance of a top-ranking department, fellows in the program benefit from hands-on experiences in patient care as well as comprehensive training in clinical research.

Fellows are expected to receive a stipend equivalent to that of a PGY-5 or PGY-6, in addition to health insurance benefits and coverage for graduate course tuition. The fellowship emphasizes the development of outstanding clinical skills and teaching capabilities, allowing fellows to contribute meaningful research that advances the field of family planning.

Application Process

To apply for the Complex Family Planning Fellowship, candidates must submit a completed application through the ERAS system. Essential application components include a MyERAS application, a Curriculum Vitae, a personal statement, a photo, a USMLE transcript, and three letters of recommendation. Candidates are evaluated comprehensively, and all completed applications are considered for interviews. The program's unique position allows for mentorship and collaboration with a national network of family planning experts.

Clinical Training and Research

The mission of the program is patient-centered care aimed at advancing reproductive healthcare quality and availability. Fellows receive extensive hands-on training in clinical practice, patient care, and clinical research under close mentoring relationships. Throughout the fellowship, they engage in clinical research that defines the future of family planning.

Fellows are encouraged to cultivate their clinical and teaching skills, which is essential for their professional development as they transition into leadership roles in family planning. Moreover, the program fosters an inclusive and diverse environment that promotes critical thinking and creativity necessary for pioneering advancements in biomedicine.

Training Sites and Resources

The program primarily operates through the Washington University Medical Campus and Barnes-Jewish Hospital, allowing fellows access to a variety of resources and support systems. The division of Family Planning is noted for its robust clinical programs, extensive patient populations, and an emphasis on advanced training.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The program offers visa sponsorship for qualifying international medical graduates. This typically includes supporting visa types such as J-1 visas, which are common for fellowship training in the United States. Interested candidates should verify eligibility and specific requirements during the application process.

Competitiveness and Fellow Diversity

The Complex Family Planning Fellowship is considered competitive, attracting a diverse range of applicants, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds. The program showcases a commitment to creating an inclusive environment for fellows from varied educational and professional backgrounds, thus enriching the fellowship cohort.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program's distinctive approach includes a strong emphasis on community engagement and working with medically underserved populations. Fellows are also given the opportunity to pursue a Master of Science in Clinical Investigation or a Master of Population Health Sciences during their fellowship. This integration of education and practice ensures that fellows are well-prepared to become experts in the field upon completion of their training.

Current Fellows and Alumni

Current fellows include individuals like Ishana Prema Shetty, MD, who began in August 2023, and Christine Jackson, DO, MPH, who will start in August 2024. The program's alumni are often noted for their significant contributions to the field, demonstrating the lasting impact of the fellowship on careers in family planning and reproductive health.