Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program

The Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program in Maternal-Fetal Medicine provides an extensive educational and training experience aimed at producing highly skilled maternal-fetal medicine specialists. This program integrates clinical training, research opportunities, and hands-on experience, thereby equipping fellows with the expertise necessary to navigate the complex challenges in this specialty.

Program Structure

The program is designed to span three years, during which fellows will engage in a mix of clinical rotations, didactic training, and research. The rotations will take place across the three facilities located on the Kingshighway campus, providing a collaborative environment for learning and patient care 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum meticulously balances clinical responsibilities with educational opportunities. Fellows will participate in a variety of clinical experiences that encompass antepartum and intrapartum care, perinatal genetics, maternal medicine, and obstetric ultrasound. Each experience is tailored to ensure that fellows acquire comprehensive skills in both routine and high-risk obstetrics.

Rotations

Fellows will complete rotations across multiple disciplines within maternal-fetal medicine, including but not limited to high-risk obstetrics, maternal medicine, genetics, and ultrasound. These rotations are critical for developing a broad understanding of both standard practices and the latest technological advances in maternal-fetal care 1.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research, allowing fellows to participate in ongoing studies and projects to expand their understanding of maternal-fetal medicine and contribute to the advancement of the field. Fellows are encouraged to pursue their own research interests, supported by faculty mentoring and access to resources. The research dimensions of the program profoundly enhance the educational experience and are pivotal in developing future leaders in the specialty.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the unique features of the program is its collaborative approach, leveraging the strengths of the three facilities to provide a comprehensive training experience. The immediate accessibility of the institutions enhances interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling fellows to learn from a diverse range of experts in maternal-fetal medicine. This network fosters a rich learning environment where fellows can benefit from multiple perspectives and approaches to patient care 1.

Training Sites

Training occurs primarily at Washington University School of Medicine, Barnes-Jewish Hospital (B-JH), and St. Louis Children’s Hospital (SLCH). Each site provides a unique context for training, ensuring that fellows are exposed to a wide array of clinical cases and patient populations, thus enhancing their competencies in various aspects of maternal-fetal medicine.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for qualified international applicants. It typically sponsors J-1 visas, which are essential for international medical graduates wishing to participate in this highly regarded fellowship program. This commitment to supporting international trainees underscores the program's dedication to fostering a diverse clinical and academic environment.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program is known for being highly competitive, attracting applicants from around the world. Important application considerations include a comprehensive review of the applicant's educational background, including year of graduation and performance in the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). Applicants are encouraged to have no more than one failed attempt on the Step exams, and strong letters of recommendation are essential components of the application.