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Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBG) journey doesn’t end with post-graduation. “What next?” is probably one of the most widely discussed topics among newly post-graduated OBG doctors. To continue in a senior residency to take up a fellowship, or directly go to private practice?
Here is an overview of each one so that you can make an informed decision for your career.
1: Senior Residency
Senior residency is a great choice if you want to develop confidence and acquire significant hands-on experience.
Why Senior Residency?
- Increased Exposure: The senior residency provides three years of exposure to different cases, which helps you hone your clinical and surgical skills.
- Independence: This position gives you more independence in decision-making and surgeries compared to a junior residency.
- Foundation for Practice: Senior residency is very instrumental in establishing a proper foundation in core OBG before one decides to pursue a specialty or enter into private practice.
Key Benefits:
- Change to grasp general OBG experience with managing high-risk pregnancies and routine gynecologic surgeries.
- Confidence in practising OBG with the least supervision.
- Possible opportunity to mentor and orient junior residents, and train the skills of teaching and leadership.
- If you want to get well-rounded in OBG before focusing on a particular area, then senior residency is the way to go.
2: Fellowship (Super Specialization)
For those who want to specialize in a specific area of interest, a fellowship is the next logical step.
Fields of Super Specialization in OBG:
- Reproductive Medicine & Infertility
- Gynecological Endoscopy
- Fetal Medicine
- High-Risk Obstetrics and Critical Care
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Urogynecology
- Medical Education
Fellowships are also more focused, where the expertise is in cutting-edge technologies and advanced procedures in one’s chosen field.
Why Choose a Fellowship?
- Expertise in a Niche Field: You will be identified as an expert in the niche field.
- Career Prospects: Super-specialized doctors are in high demand in tertiary hospitals, academic institutions, and even in private practices.
- Earn More: A fellowship, most of the time, translates into higher income as a result of specialized skills.
Key Factors to Look Out For
- Long-Term Goals: Do you have a passion for a particular niche, or do you envision yourself doing well as a general OBG?
- Opportunities Available: Investigate the availability and quality of fellowships or senior residency programs in your area.
- Workload and Academic Growth: Find programs that have a nice balance of academic opportunities and hands-on training.
- Personal Preferences: Consider your timeline and how much time you’re willing to invest before starting independent practice.
Conclusion: Choose What Aligns with Your Goals
Whichever you choose, either senior residency or fellowship each offers its own benefits. So take your time to reflect on your interests, goals, and the kind of career you envision for yourself. OBG offers unmatched versatility, allowing you to craft a career that is both professionally and personally satisfying.
