OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY
Guidelines for Elective Programs and Residency Training


ELECTIVE LIST

Obstetricians/gynecologists (OB/GYN’s) provide comprehensive care for a wide range of reproductive health concerns in women.  In addition to primary and preventive care, we provide medical and behavioral management of reproductive health problems, normal and high risk pregnancy care, and surgical care for benign and cancerous conditions. The field of OB/GYN includes subspecialties in Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Gynecologic Oncology, Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery, Family Planning, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Ultrasonography, and Global Health.

A thorough grounding in women’s health is essential in the primary care specialties of Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Pediatrics, as well as selected surgical subspecialties including Urology.  Senior electives are open to any student who has an interest in women’s reproductive health. In order to participate, most of the senior electives require successful completion of the core, third year clerkship. However, exceptions may be considered on an individual basis. The interested student is asked to contact both the course director and the Director of Student Education, Dr. Marcus. 

Residency programs in OB/GYN and most other specialties encourage well balanced senior electives. Students who plan a career in OB/GYN are encouraged to take a senior elective early in the year so that they may evaluate their true interest in the specialty before applying to programs in the early fall. Additionally, they may wish to participate in courses exposing them to general medicine (acting internships), critical care medicine (medical or surgical), neonatology, and emergency medicine. Courses in cardiology, endocrinology, radiology, infectious diseases, urology, nephrology and general surgery also bring valuable knowledge to the future OB/GYN.

Further advice or information may be obtained from the Director of Student Education (Dr. Marcus), the Chair (Dr. Learman), or any of the faculty.