Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Program

The Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell offers a unique Fellowship in Complex Family Planning. This program is designed to develop clinicians with specialized skills in family planning and reproductive health, supporting them in becoming leaders in the field.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is comprehensive and integrates clinical training with didactic learning. Fellows will participate in electives that enhance their understanding of various aspects of reproductive health, including contraceptive management, preconception counseling, and the medical and surgical management of early pregnancy loss. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and the development of critical thinking skills through interactive education.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

Fellows will engage in multiple rotations at various Northwell Health facilities, including North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center. These rotations are designed to provide a breadth of experience, including outpatient care, inpatient management, and surgical techniques related to family planning and reproductive health.

Clinical training includes the opportunity to perform procedures such as dilation and curettage (D&C), contraception insertion and removal, as well as managing complications from procedures. Hands-on training is complemented by participation in interdisciplinary team meetings, ensuring a collaborative approach to patient care.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes scholarly activity, providing fellows the opportunity to engage in impactful research related to family planning. Fellows are encouraged to identify research projects that align with their interests, which may include topics such as contraceptive access, health equity in reproductive healthcare, and the development of innovative approaches to patient education.

Unique Aspects of the Program

What sets this fellowship apart is its commitment to addressing disparities in reproductive health access and outcomes. The program places a strong emphasis on advocacy, equipping fellows with the skills needed to implement changes in practice and policy that promote equitable access to reproductive health services.

Additionally, fellows will benefit from mentorship by leading experts in the field, with tailored guidance to align their professional development with their career goals. This includes opportunities to attend national conferences, contribute to publications, and present research findings.

Training Sites

The training sites for this program include Northwell Health's extensive network of hospitals and clinics, ensuring a diverse clinical experience. Fellows will work with a variety of patient populations, including underserved communities, enhancing their cultural competency and understanding of diverse health needs.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program provides visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates. The types of visas supported include J-1 and H-1B visas. This inclusivity enhances its appeal to a broader range of applicants, fostering an environment enriched by diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Application Requirements

Applicants should have graduated from an accredited medical school and meet specific eligibility criteria, including the successful completion of USMLE or COMLEX examinations. Importantly, candidates must not have failed these exams more than twice, ensuring a standard of academic excellence.

Letters of recommendation from professionals in the field, ideally including family planning specialists, are also required as part of the application process. The program is highly competitive, attracting candidates with a strong commitment to advancing in the discipline of family planning.

Benefits and Compensation

Fellows in the program enjoy a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package typical of Northwell Health residency programs. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, malpractice coverage, paid time off, and access to wellness resources. The program promotes the overall well-being of its fellows, understanding the unique challenges faced during intensive training periods.