Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the constantly evolving field of healthcare, the role of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists is becoming increasingly important.

As scientific advancements pave the way for improved obstetric and neonatal care, the need for experts who can manage high-risk pregnancies and ensure the well-being of both mother and fetus is crucial.

But what does a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist actually do?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional seeking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of maternal-fetal medicine,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists, also known as perinatologists, are obstetricians who specialize in managing high-risk pregnancies.

They have extensive knowledge in obstetrics, medical and surgical complications of pregnancy, and the unborn fetus’s health.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Providing specialized care for women with high-risk pregnancies, including those with chronic health problems or unexpected problems that arise during pregnancy
• Performing prenatal tests, ultrasounds, and fetal procedures to monitor the health of the mother and fetus
• Diagnosing and treating fetal conditions in utero
• Coordinating care with other medical professionals, such as genetic counselors and neonatologists, as needed
• Providing care for women who experience complications during pregnancy or childbirth
• Educating patients and their families about potential risks and outcomes associated with high-risk pregnancies
• Conducting research to improve the health of mothers and babies
• Providing guidance on the genetic and congenital disorders of the fetus
• Assisting in complex surgical procedures like C-section, forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery
• Documenting patient’s medical history, treatment plans, and any observed changes

 

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist to join our healthcare team.

This professional will be responsible for providing expert care to pregnant women who have high-risk pregnancies.

The responsibilities include conducting regular examinations, diagnosing conditions, providing treatment, and counseling patients about the risks and complications.

Our ideal candidate is an empathetic communicator with substantial experience in maternal-fetal medicine.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide prenatal care to pregnant women with high-risk conditions
• Conduct regular examinations and diagnostic tests to monitor the health of the mother and fetus
• Diagnose and treat conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm labor
• Collaborate with obstetricians, midwives, and other healthcare providers
• Provide counseling and support to patients regarding potential risks and complications
• Perform fetal diagnostic procedures such as ultrasounds, amniocentesis, and biophysical profiles
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in maternal-fetal medicine
• Participate in research projects related to maternal-fetal health

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist
• Board certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Excellent diagnostic and problem-solving abilities
• Strong knowledge of prenatal care procedures and best practices
• Ability to empathize and communicate with patients about sensitive issues
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• MD degree from an accredited medical school

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Professional development and advancement opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist
• Work Environment: Hospital or healthcare facility. Some travel may be required for conferences or continuing education.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with candidate’s experience, qualifications, and local market factors.
• Pay Range: $200,000 minimum to $400,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Do?

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists are specialized obstetricians who focus on the management of high-risk pregnancies.

They work in a variety of medical settings such as hospitals, specialized clinics, or private practices.

Primarily, they provide care and counseling to expectant mothers who have complications identified prior to or during pregnancy.

These complications may include chronic health problems, fetal disease, or complications caused by pregnancy.

They perform detailed fetal ultrasounds to monitor the growth and development of the baby, and also conduct tests to identify abnormalities.

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists may perform procedures such as amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, or fetal surgery to diagnose or treat conditions before the baby is born.

They work closely with other healthcare professionals, like genetic counselors, neonatologists, and pediatric surgeons, to provide a comprehensive care plan.

Additionally, they may conduct research and teach medical students and residents about high-risk obstetrics.

The goal of their work is to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and baby.

 

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A qualified Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Extensive medical knowledge and understanding of obstetrics and gynecology, including the ability to diagnose and treat conditions affecting both the mother and fetus.
• Strong decision-making skills to make quick, potentially life-saving choices during high-risk pregnancies and deliveries.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals, providing clear explanations of complex medical procedures and conditions.
• High level of empathy and patient-care skills to provide compassionate care for patients dealing with high-risk pregnancies.
• Exceptional technical skills for performing specialized procedures, such as fetal echocardiography, amniocentesis, and cesarean sections.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills to manage and monitor the health of both mother and fetus throughout the pregnancy, ensuring accurate record-keeping and follow-ups.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to swiftly identify and address any complications or unexpected situations that may arise during pregnancy or delivery.
• Ability to perform under pressure in potentially stressful situations, maintaining composure and professionalism.

 

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Experience Requirements

Becoming a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist requires substantial amounts of education and experience.

After completion of a bachelor’s degree, candidates must attend medical school for four years.

This is often followed by a residency in obstetrics and gynecology, typically taking another four years.

After the residency, candidates are required to gain further specialized experience through a Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellowship, which typically lasts two to three years.

This enables them to gain hands-on experience in managing high-risk pregnancies, fetal diagnosis, and treatment.

In total, before officially practicing as a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist, candidates usually have more than 10 years of experience through education, training, and residency.

For those wishing to advance further in their careers, additional years of experience in the field are necessary.

Those with over 15 years of experience may have opportunities to take on leadership roles in their practice or at a teaching hospital.

They may also engage in clinical research, contributing to the advancement of this specialized field.

Continuous education and staying updated with the latest medical advancements is also a crucial part of the experience requirements for a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist.

This ensures they are providing the highest level of care to their patients.

 

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists, also known as Perinatologists, typically start their educational journey with a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, though this isn’t always required for medical school admission.

The next step is to complete a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.

Medical school typically takes four years, during which students learn general medical concepts in the first two years and gain clinical experience in the last two years.

Upon graduation from medical school, aspiring Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists must then complete a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology, which usually takes four years.

This residency provides in-depth training in women’s general health, pregnancy, labor and delivery, prenatal testing, and genetics, among other areas.

After completing this residency, doctors must then undergo a fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine.

These fellowships last for three years and offer specialized training in the management of high-risk pregnancies.

Upon completion of the fellowship, doctors are eligible to become board-certified in Maternal-Fetal Medicine by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) or a similar certifying body.

This involves passing a rigorous examination.

Continuing education is crucial in this field due to advancements in prenatal testing and treatments.

Therefore, many Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists may also pursue additional training and certifications throughout their careers.

 

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Salary Expectations

A Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist, also known as a Perinatologist, earns an average salary of $425,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can significantly vary based on factors such as years of experience, level of specialization, geographic location, and the type of healthcare institution.

 

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist need?

A Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist should have excellent clinical and diagnostic skills to manage high-risk pregnancies.

They need exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to connect with patients and their families during what can often be a stressful period.

They should be competent in interpreting ultrasound and other diagnostic imaging, and have a comprehensive understanding of genetic disorders and congenital abnormalities.

 

What qualifications does a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist require?

A Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist requires a medical degree (MD or DO), followed by a residency in obstetrics and gynecology.

Following this, they must complete a fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine, which is generally 2-3 years.

The specialist must also obtain certification from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and the subspecialty of Maternal-Fetal Medicine.

 

What should you look for in a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist’s resume?

On a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist’s resume, you should look for a medical degree from an accredited institution, completed residency in obstetrics and gynecology, and a fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine.

Make sure to check if they have the necessary board certifications.

Additional experience in a hospital or medical center dealing with high-risk pregnancies is desirable.

Also look for research publications and participation in relevant professional organizations.

 

What qualities make a good Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist?

A good Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist is compassionate, understanding and has excellent bedside manners as they often deal with patients facing high-risk pregnancies.

They are diligent and have a meticulous attention to detail to ensure all potential issues are identified and addressed.

They maintain a high level of professional knowledge and skill, are committed to continuous learning, and can work well in a multidisciplinary team.

Lastly, they have the ability to handle stress and make critical decisions under pressure.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist?

Given the advanced training and specialization required for this role, it can be challenging to find qualified candidates for a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist position.

It can be beneficial to work with medical recruitment firms or create relationships with medical schools and residency programs to identify potential candidates.

Offering competitive salaries and benefits, along with opportunities for professional development, can also help attract top candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the genuine essence of being a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist.

But guess what?

It’s not just about conducting examinations or prescribing treatments.

It’s about safeguarding the future of two lives at once, one careful decision at a time.

With our tried and tested Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to leap forward.

But why limit yourself here?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every decision you make is part of a larger narrative.

Let’s shape healthier futures. Together.

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