Is it possible to become a neonatal surgeon who is also certified OBGYN?

It is possible to become a neonatal surgeon who is also certified in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN). However, it requires extensive education and training. Here's an overview of the steps involved:

1. Educational Requirements:

- Complete a bachelor's degree in a relevant science field, such as biology, chemistry, or a related field.

- Attend medical school and earn a medical degree (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.

2. Residency Training:

After medical school, you will need to complete two separate residency programs: one in OB/GYN and one in neonatal surgery.

- OB/GYN Residency: This typically lasts for four years and involves clinical rotations in various aspects of women's health, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and gynecologic surgery.

- Neonatal Surgery Fellowship: This typically lasts for two years and focuses on the surgical management of newborns and infants, including complex surgical conditions.

3. Board Certification:

Once you have completed both residency programs, you can sit for the board exams to become certified in both OB/GYN and neonatal surgery.

- OB/GYN Board Certification: You will need to pass the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) certification exam.

- Neonatal Surgery Board Certification: You will need to pass the American Board of Pediatric Surgery (ABPS) certification exam in pediatric surgery, with a subspecialty certification in neonatal surgery.

4. Additional Training and Experience:

After becoming certified, you may choose to pursue additional training or experience in specific areas of neonatal surgery, such as fetal surgery or transplant surgery.

It is important to note that this career path requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The combined education, training, and board certifications necessary to become a neonatal surgeon who is also certified in OB/GYN typically takes around 14 to 15 years.