UPMC Medical Education Program
Maternal-fetal medicineACGME Code:
2304122002Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship Overview
The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship Training Program at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital offers a comprehensive educational experience designed to prepare trainees for a successful career as subspecialists. The program is currently approved to accept three fellows per year, ensuring a focused and individualized training environment.
The fellowship aims to train competent subspecialists capable of managing complicated pregnancies, consulting with referring physicians, and pursuing academic medicine opportunities. Fellows are encouraged to take advantage of advanced degrees and professional development resources available throughout their training.
At UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, renowned for its excellence in women’s health, fellows benefit from an extensive clinical experience marked by high patient volume and diverse cases. Key features of the clinical training include:
- Over 10,000 deliveries are performed annually, providing significant exposure to various obstetrical scenarios.
- Approximately 625 patients are transferred each year for high-risk perinatal care, allowing fellows to engage in complex case management.
- Annually, more than 80,000 ultrasound examinations are performed, enhancing fellows' skills in fetal assessment and imaging techniques.
- Training in advanced interventional techniques, such as amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, and procedures through the Center for Innovative Fetal Intervention.
A pivotal aspect of the fellowship is the research component, facilitated by the Magee-Womens Research Institute. The institute is recognized as one of the largest research facilities in the U.S. dedicated to women’s and infants’ health. The research opportunities include:
- Access to large multi-center databases through the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit Network.
- Formal faculty mentoring tailored to support fellows in their ongoing research projects.
- Extramural funding from sources such as the National Institutes of Health and internal funds to support innovative research endeavors.
The educational structuring of the fellowship promotes a robust foundation in evidence-based medicine through various didactic opportunities:
- Weekly protected didactics extending across three hours each week.
- Monthly journal clubs and regular Grand Rounds, encouraging fellows to critically evaluate current literature and clinical practices.
- Funding for graduate coursework in biostatistics and research methodology through the Institute for Clinical Research Education (ICRE) during the second year of fellowship.
- Opportunities to pursue additional education through certificate or master’s degree programs in relevant fields.
Prospective applicants to the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship must submit their applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including the following essential documents:
- A complete online application, Curriculum Vitae, and a Personal Statement.
- Medical School transcripts and Medical School Performance Evaluations (MSPE).
- Official test transcripts for all relevant examinations (including USMLE Steps I, II, and III).
- A minimum of four letters of recommendation, with one from the chairman of the residency training department.
Visa Support and Requirements
The program provides support for visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates. Generally, the program can sponsor J-1 visas. However, applicants on H-1B status must ensure compliance with specific requirements.
Competitiveness and Special Application Requirements
The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital is regarded as a highly competitive program. Candidates are often evaluated based on the quality of their national board scores, letters of recommendation, and relevant experience. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and DO candidates are welcome, fostering a diverse training cohort.
Special application requirements include a completion of an ACGME-accredited residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology prior to the fellowship start date. The program does not impose maximum limits on failed STEP exams, broadening the pool of eligible candidates.
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$77,131First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.7XResidents career path:
Min. Step 2 Score:
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Living in Pittsburgh, PA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Pittsburgh has a slightly higher-than-average crime rate compared to the national average. However, specific neighborhoods within the city vary in safety levels, so it's advisable to research the area where you'll be living.
- Fun Activities: Pittsburgh is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, sports events, numerous parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities along its three rivers.
- Climate: Pittsburgh experiences all four seasons, with cold winters, warm summers, and beautiful fall foliage.
- Races and Population: Pittsburgh is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The city has a population of around 300,000 people.
- Education: Pittsburgh is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Pittsburgh is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the US, particularly in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Pittsburgh is approximately a 5-hour drive from Philadelphia and a 6-hour drive from New York City. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences, entertainment, and employment opportunities.
- Pros: Vibrant arts and culture scene, affordable cost of living, beautiful outdoor scenery.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate in some areas, cold winters.