Development of a Global Women's Health Curricular Addition to an Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate Medical Education Program [83

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Interest in global health is growing among residents in obstetrics–gynecology programs; however, few programs have formal curricula in global health. Kacey (2014) found formal training in 34% of U.S. programs and a dedicated rotation in 27%. The goal of this needs-based assessment is to determine University of Vermont obstetrics–gynecology residents' interest and previous experiences in global health to guide the development of a competency-based global health curriculum, including an external rotation. METHODS: Exempt status was obtained from the University of Vermont institutional review board. A literature review of graduate medical education global health participation was conducted. University of Vermont obstetrics–gynecology residents completed a voluntary anonymous survey. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: Residents unanimously felt that global health was not included in the residency curriculum. Ninety-two percent of residents had moderate or above average interest in global health education and, interestingly, 69% intended to include global health in their careers. Seventy-six percent described their previous global health experience as minimal or none, but 53% had at least some prior experiences and 46% had formal training. Topics of interest included refugee health, sex trafficking, human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency, and female genital mutilation. All residents would participate in an off-site rotation if offered. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Global health is not addressed in the University of Vermont obstetrics–gynecology residency. To meet this need, a competency-based, 2-year curriculum consisting of videos, lectures, and guest speakers will be developed. A Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Vermont and Makerere University (Uganda) will allow an international rotation for residents. Surveys will be administered postimplementation to judge effectiveness.