Sarita R. Sonalkar, MD
Program Director
Our ACGME-accredited Fellowship program aims to develop leaders in the field of Complex Family Planning, through clinical, didactic, advocacy, and research training. Fellows make use of the University's broad range of clinical programs, rich and diverse academic resources both within and outside of the medical school, and robust research infrastructure. Focused, advanced training in abortion care, miscarriage management, early pregnancy complications and complex contraception, along with experience working within a fully integrated research and clinical environment prepares Fellows for a wide variety of career tracks. Throughout the program, fellows learn to use research and evidence-based practice to advance health equity and anti-racism efforts in Complex Family Planning, within a framework of reproductive justice.
Our clinical practice is the safety net abortion care and pregnancy complication provider in Philadelphia, as well as the primary referral center for complex patients. Thus, Fellows work with a diverse patient population including those who are underserved, from communities of color, and who are medically and surgically complex. Our practice is connected to the reproductive health and justice community of the city, allowing for strong partnerships in clinical care and advocacy.
Our program is designed to offer clinical, leadership, research, and advocacy experience, all of which span the two years of Fellowship.
- Year One: Fellows build clinical skills through integration into our clinical practice and operative procedures. Clinical training focuses on first and second trimester abortion care, miscarriage management, early pregnancy complications, and complex contraceptive management. The first year also allows time for Fellows to develop their research interests and present a concept paper for a study that will continue through their second year, as well as begin to develop leadership and advocacy skills.
- Year Two: The second year has a stronger academic focus, and Fellows have the opportunity to refine their career and leadership goals. Fellows take part in external rotations in leadership, contraceptive development, policy, rural abortion care, or global health. The research concept developed in year one is completed for presentation and publication, and the Fellow develops the skills necessary to become an independent researcher. Clinically, Fellows practice greater independence in clinical sessions and surgical panels.
How to Apply
For information about the fellowship program and how to apply, please visit Applying to Fellowships with ERAS®|AAMC
Helpful Links
*separate application process required