Introduction
The practice of fetal medicine has major implications, not only for the individual family, but for society as a whole. Although a high proportion of pregnancies would benefit from expertise in this area, for many conditions there is little agreement concerning standards of care. This is partly because fetal–maternal medicine is a rapidly expanding discipline with those providing care obtaining information from often outdated textbooks and from the conflicting findings of research papers.
In introducing the Diploma in Fetal Medicine we aim to build on the existing subspecialization programs and raise training standards internationally. We also intend to establish an international network of subspecialist centers undertaking collaborative research and promoting standards in clinical practice through the exchange of ideas and experiences. Study groups of leading international experts will generate guidelines for practice on a wide range of topics.
There are training programs for subspecialization in fetal–maternal medicine in the USA, UK, Australia and Canada. However, the number is limited and these programs are not designed to meet the increasing world-wide demand for specialists. The Diploma is not intended to replace current certifying mechanisms that exist in some countries.
The Diploma in Fetal Medicine will be awarded to candidates who have successfully completed both the theoretical course and a practical training program set to a very high standard.
The theoretical course is designed for both those specializing in fetal–maternal medicine and those with a more general clinical interest who want to be updated on developments in this field. The lectures will be given by an international group of experts who are leading academics in their field.
Candidates who have successfully completed the theoretical course can apply to a recognized center for the 2-year practical training, either independently or through the Fetal Medicine Foundation. The Foundation will award training grants to the best candidates selected after interview with the International Educational Committee. It is also hoped that grants will be given by governmental bodies, charitable organizations and private sources.
Candidates who have already received extensive training in fetal medicine may be granted exemption from part of the practical training program after submission to the Educational Committee of documentary evidence of such training.
It is not necessary to undertake all aspects of the Diploma course in one year, and you may spread your attendance over any number of years. The courses constituting the Diploma are each independent courses in their own right, and delegates can attend any or all of them over whatever period of time is convenient.
The Diploma will be awarded to candidates who have successfully undertaken the following:
- The theoretical course in Fetal Medicine.
- Specialist practical training in a recognized fetal–maternal center for a minimum of 2 years. The trainees will need to complete a log-book to demonstrate the range of conditions managed and they will be required to obtain a recommendation from the program director of the center in which they received training.
- Research in fetal–maternal medicine leading to either a postgraduate qualification (PhD or MD) from the University of London or equivalent university, or a series of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- The practical and oral examination in Fetal Medicine.
For a list of people who have passed the Diploma examination please click here.