Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island/Brown University Program

The fellowship program in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery at Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, affiliated with Brown University, emphasizes comprehensive training for graduates from Obstetrics and Gynecology and Urology residencies. This program focuses on female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, structured as a 36-month fellowship for OB/GYN graduates and a 24-month fellowship for Urology graduates. The program includes multi-disciplinary rotations, providing fellows with experience in Urology, Colorectal Surgery, Gastroenterology for Women, and Global Health. Furthermore, research training is an integral part of the fellowship with an annual WIH Fellows’ Workshop in Clinical Research Design.1

Fellow education is a critical component of the program, with scheduled didactics every Thursday morning which are fellow-directed. Fellows also serve in educational roles for OBGYN residents and Brown medical students, allowing them to lead small-group discussions and contribute to the residents' curriculum. This hands-on teaching experience enhances their leadership and mentorship skills, essential for their future careers in medicine.1

The Division of Urogynecology at Women & Infants has a robust research infrastructure, including dedicated clinical offices equipped with multiple exam rooms, urodynamics suite, and cystoscopy suites. The division employs a team of 7 faculty members who are fellowship-trained, alongside dedicated nursing and support staff. The program also supports fellow initiatives with seed grants for research projects and provides financial backing for required courses at the Brown University School of Public Health. Fellows engage in rigorous research projects culminating in an ABOG-approved thesis,1 along with quality improvement projects.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum includes extensive clinical training involving inpatient and outpatient care. Additionally, fellows have access to clinical initiatives that bolster their education through known research mentors. The program's commitment to education is reflected in its structure focusing on individualized learning needs, which is facilitated through organized research and clinical schedules.1

Research Opportunities

Research is highly valued, with fellows expected to engage in significant investigative efforts. The Division of Research provides support in data management and analysis, aiding fellows in their academic pursuits. The infrastructure allows fellows to participate in projects that not only contribute to individual learning but also enhance the program's reputation for scholarly outputs.1

Training Sites

The training for fellows occurs largely at the Women & Infants Hospital, which offers a supportive environment with an emphasis on patient-centered care. As one of the leading hospitals in the U.S. for obstetrics and gynecology, Women & Infants provides fellows with a diverse range of clinical experiences. Notably, the hospital features a free-standing emergency room dedicated to women's health, enhancing the educational exposure of the fellows in handling acute obstetric and gynecologic emergencies.1

Competitiveness and Applicant Requirements

The fellowship program is competitive, meaning that applicants need a robust academic background and clinical experience, including favorable scores on the USMLE exams. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are welcome to apply, provided they hold a valid ECFMG certificate and have recent graduation status (within the last five years). The program supports J-1 visas, making it IMG-friendly. Candidates must provide a thorough application, including letters of recommendation and a personal statement, with a minimum of three letters needed, including one from an Ob/Gyn.1

Visa Support

The fellowship program supports the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa for international applicants. However, the program may consider the H-1B visa for recent graduates from U.S. medical schools. Documentation and comprehensive proof of prior clinical experience will be required from IMG candidates. These aspects underline the program’s commitment to a diverse fellowship class that fosters an inclusive academic environment.1

Culture and Life in Providence

The fellowship at Women & Infants Hospital operates within the culturally rich and vibrant setting of Providence, Rhode Island. The city offers a unique blend of culinary experiences, arts, and a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger nearby urban centers. This presents a supportive living environment for fellows, allowing for balanced work-life integration.1

Additionally, curricular elements within the fellowship promote wellness and community engagement, with comprehensive wellness programs dedicated to maintaining optimal mental health among fellows. Social events and various extracurricular opportunities further enhance the fellowship experience, fostering camaraderie and collaboration among fellows and faculty alike.1