Virtua Program

The Virtua Program in Obstetrics and Gynecology aims to foster a deep understanding of both the science and art of obstetrics and gynecology, fully equipping residents with the necessary skills to deliver competent, evidence-based care. Commencing in 2021, this residency program has integrated continual, comprehensive care as a cornerstone of its mission, significantly impacting women’s health in southern New Jersey and beyond. Residents are engaged daily in the complete spectrum of hospital care, including obstetrics, gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, urogynecology, reproductive endocrinology, and infertility, ensuring that they are well-prepared to handle diverse patient needs in any clinical scenario 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is strategically designed across four years, each with specific objectives tailored to the residents’ progression:

PGY1

The first year, or PGY1, is centered on foundational skills in both obstetrics and gynecology. Residents will learn about normal pregnancy physiology, labor management, and gain hands-on experience with uncomplicated vaginal deliveries and cesarean sections. The gynecological component includes understanding the normal menstrual cycle, contraception counseling, and performing basic procedures 1.

PGY2

In the second year, residents advance their expertise to managing complex surgical cases and abnormal presentations in obstetrics. This year emphasizes invasive gynecological techniques, including advanced laparoscopic surgical procedures and gynecologic oncology. Residents also begin taking more responsibility on night float rotations, reflecting increased autonomy in patient management 1.

PGY3

The third year focuses on developing leadership skills. Residents will have chief responsibilities, manage complex patient cases, and hone their surgical skills further, including robotic surgery techniques 1.

PGY4

The final year centers around refining supervisory capabilities while teaching junior residents and medical students. There is a strong emphasis on surgical proficiency and preparing for post-residency career opportunities, including submitting research for publication 1.

Facilities and Training Sites

This residency program takes advantage of state-of-the-art facilities, primarily based at Virtua Voorhees Hospital and Virtua Mount Holly Hospital, both known for their high volume of deliveries—over 7,500 annually—and substantial surgical experience. Innovative technologies are utilized throughout the care provided, with both hospitals fully integrated into a digital EMR system, enhancing patient safety and streamlining care 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the program, with a structured roadmap guiding residents from identifying a research idea in the PGY1 year to presenting findings by PGY4. This mentorship is supported by dedicated faculty who are committed to fostering research and scholarly activities 1.

Unique Aspects and Competitiveness

The Virtua Program is known for its welcoming environment toward residents from diverse backgrounds, including DO and international medical graduates (IMGs). However, candidates must demonstrate US clinical experience and meet specific requirements, such as holding ECFMG certification for international graduates and passing scores on USMLE/COMLEX examinations 1.

Visa Support

The program does not sponsor employment visas, thus applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. This policy might impact international medical graduate candidates seeking residency opportunities 1.

Application Process and Requirements

Applications are required to be submitted exclusively through the Residency CAS, and candidates must provide all relevant documentation by the specified deadlines. Key documents include letters of recommendation, medical school transcripts, and a personal statement. Interviews are conducted on set dates, focusing on assessing compatibility with the program’s values and mission 1.

Call Schedule and Work-Life Balance

The call schedule is designed to balance clinical responsibilities with personal well-being, comprising a night float system that generally averages one to two calls per month 1.

This structure provides residents with extensive practical exposure while allowing sufficient time for personal development and study.