UNC OB/GYN Residents complete rigorous training that combines clinical excellence, research opportunities, and community engagement in one of the nation’s leading academic health systems. This pathway prepares physicians to manage complex reproductive health needs across diverse patient populations.
Program structure emphasizes mentorship, longitudinal patient relationships, and competency-based milestones, ensuring residents progress confidently from medical student to independent attending. The curriculum aligns with ACGME standards while integrating innovative approaches to obstetric and gynecologic care.
| Resident Cohort | Start Date | Program Director | Key Curriculum Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-2022 | July 2021 | Catherine T. Whitridge, MD | Normal & Complex Obstetrics, Minimally Invasive Gynecology |
| 2022-2023 | July 2022 | Catherine T. Whitridge, MD | Reproductive Endocrinology, Ultrasound, Global Health |
| 2023-2024 | July 2023 | Catherine T. Whitridge, MD | Maternal-Fetal Medicine Integration, Health Equity |
| 2024-2025 | July 2024 | Catherine T. Whitridge, MD | Robotic Surgery, Data-Driven Quality Improvement |
Clinical Training Pathways in Obstetrics
Antepartum and Inpatient Management
Residents rotate through level III and level IV NICUs, managing high-risk pregnancies such as hypertensive disorders, diabetes, and preterm labor. They participate in weekly multidisciplinary conferences that reinforce evidence-based decision-making and teamwork.
Labor and Delivery Competency
Hands-on experience includes vaginal deliveries, operative vaginal deliveries, and cesarean sections under direct supervision. Simulation drills and procedural checklists ensure residents can respond effectively to obstetric emergencies at any time.
Gynecologic Surgical and Ambulatory Care
Advanced Laparoscopic and Robotic Techniques
Progressive exposure to benign gynecologic conditions builds skills in minimally invasive surgery, from diagnostic laparoscopy to complex pelvic reconstruction. Mentors emphasize precision, anatomy, and operative safety throughout each case.
Comprehensive Gynecologic Oncology Exposure
Residents collaborate with gynecologic oncology teams to understand tumor staging, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and cytoreductive surgery. This partnership strengthens oncology fundamentals and supports shared decision-making for patients with malignancies.
Research, Leadership, and Community Health
Scholarly Projects and Mentorship
Each resident completes a focused research project, often presented at national meetings or published in peer-reviewed journals. Dedicated research blocks and biweekly feedback sessions help refine study design, analysis, and scientific communication.
Health Equity and Service Learning
Global health rotations, community clinics, and advocacy trainings highlight social determinants of health. Residents learn to tailor counseling and care plans to diverse cultural, linguistic, and economic contexts while fostering trust and reducing disparities.
Career Pathways and Program Support
Academic, Private Practice, and Military Options
The program provides individualized career mentorship, interview preparation, and application support for positions in academia, group practices, the military, or international service. Strong departmental networks facilitate matches with fellowship programs and long-term employment.
Long-Term Impact and Professional Growth
- Structured curricula that align with ACGME competencies and promote measurable skill development
- Comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic surgical training with progressive autonomy
- Robust research mentorship, scholarly time, and pathways to publication
- Strong alumni network supporting career placement in diverse practice settings
- Commitment to health equity, community engagement, and lifelong learning
FAQ
Reader questions
How many delivery rooms and operating suites are available for resident use?
The institution maintains multiple dedicated delivery rooms and state-of-the-art operating suites, ensuring ample hands-on experience with both routine and complex obstetric and gynecologic procedures under supervision.
What support exists for residents balancing research and clinical duties?
Protected research time, dedicated statisticians, and mentorship structures help residents advance scholarly projects without compromising clinical responsibilities, promoting sustainable productivity and career development.
How does the program prepare residents for managing obstetric emergencies at night and on weekends?
Structured night float models, simulation drills, and close collaboration with maternal-fetal medicine and anesthesia teams ensure residents remain confident and competent during emergent obstetric situations at any hour. Partnerships with international sites, service trips, and community-based projects allow residents to expand their clinical skills, learn health equity principles, and contribute to underserved populations worldwide.