Background: Pursuing
a fellowship can be a daunting task for a busy resident. Matching into a
subspecialty of obstetrics and gynecology (Ob/Gyn) is becoming increasingly
competitive. From 2013-2016, we had only two residents attempt to match
into fellowship and both failed to obtain a position.
Methods: Early
clinical exposure to the major Ob/Gyn subspecialities occurs within the PGY2
rotation schedule. Starting in the spring of 2016, all PGY 1-3 residents
began participating in a yearly information session detailing the options for
subspecialty training and the application process. This session includes
a panel discussion by our subspecialty faculty and current fellows. Residents
are specifically asked about fellowship aspirations during their semi-annual
reviews beginning as an intern. Those who identify an interest in
pursuing a subspecialty are assigned a fellowship mentor, and residents are
encouraged to accelerate research project completion and abstract
submissions. Goals for in-service exam scores, opportunities for
presentations, and leadership roles are explicitly discussed.
Results: After
implementation of the above process, our fellowship match rate improved to 100%
(2/2) for 2016-17 and 100% (3/3) for 2017-18. We have also identified junior
residents who are interested in fellowship. Informal query of residents
revealed satisfaction and appreciation of these changes in developing
fellowship interest and match success.
Discussions: Preparing for life
after residency includes supporting those residents who identify an interest in
fellowship. Our structured approach provides a framework to encourage
these residents to achieve their goals.
Topics: CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2019, Resident, Faculty, Residency Director, Interpersonal & Communication Skills, Practice-Based Learning & Improvement, GME,
