Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Program

The Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is designed to equip fellows for successful careers as leaders in the field of pediatric hematology and oncology. The program emphasizes the principles of innovative training through a robust curriculum that is tailored to meet the needs of each fellow.

Overview and Mission

The mission of the program focuses on recruiting motivated and diverse trainees, providing exposure to a wide variety of hematologic and oncologic diseases, and fostering both clinical skills and research capabilities. The structure includes formal mentorship, comprehensive training, and opportunities for continued professional growth. Graduating fellows emerge as competent clinicians who are well-prepared to diagnose and treat complex pediatric conditions

Clinical Training

Clinical training is extensive and central to the fellowship experience. In the first year, fellows concentrate primarily on inpatient care for patients with hematologic and oncologic disorders, rotating through several key sections including Hematology and various subspecialties of Oncology. This immersion allows fellows to develop essential clinical competencies from the outset. In addition to inpatient responsibilities, fellows maintain an outpatient clinic where they manage a panel of patients, fostering a sense of continuity of care. As they advance to their second and third years, responsibilities shift towards research, while retaining outpatient commitments, which ensures that fellows continue to cultivate their clinical skills alongside their academic pursuits

Research Training

Years two and three are heavily focused on research, with approximately 80% of time dedicated to scholarly activities. The research training encompasses basic, translational, and clinical research topics, allowing fellows to explore a variety of content areas, including treatment outcomes and healthcare disparities. Fellows are encouraged to pursue master’s degrees to complement their academic training, pushing them toward impactful contributions in the field. A supportive mentoring structure, including a primary research mentor, facilitates tailored guidance and oversight throughout the research experience, significantly enhancing the fellowship's focus on developing independent researchers

Didactic Opportunities

Educational opportunities abound within the fellowship framework. First-year fellows participate in numerous conferences geared towards enhancing their clinical knowledge. Specialized training sessions, such as Palliative Care Bootcamp and the VitalTalk Communication Training Workshop, round out their formal education. As fellows progress, they engage in additional specialized didactic sessions including workshops focused on advanced clinical skills, research methodologies, and professional development seminars, which are designed to prepare fellows for their future careers

Mentorship

A robust mentorship program is integral to the fellowship structure. Each fellow is matched with dedicated mentors in both Hematology and Oncology who provide support throughout the training years. These mentors not only guide fellows through patient care responsibilities but also assist in their professional development, encouraging long-term connections that often continue beyond completion of the fellowship. Holistic mentorship extends to aspects of personal and professional balance, fostering an atmosphere of growth and collaboration among peers

Wellness Initiatives

The fellowship places a significant emphasis on wellness, prioritizing mental health and work-life balance through various initiatives. The program includes dedicated programming coordinated by fellow representatives and faculty wellness liaisons, thereby actively responding to the needs and welfare of fellows. Regular social events, supportive networks, and access to mental health resources are a testament to the program's commitment to promoting a healthy training environment

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The program seeks to foster an inclusive environment that reflects the diverse communities served by CHOP. Efforts include sustained recruitment of diverse cohorts and engagement in initiatives designed to promote an enriched educational experience for all fellows. Specific committees have been established to address diversity, ensure education and training, and enhance the overall fellowship environment, thus aligning the program's goals with broader hospital missions toward equality and representation.

Visa Support

The program offers support for international applicants, including the potential sponsorship of visas necessary for training, which helps foster an inclusive atmosphere for a variety of candidates. The hosting of a multicultural cohort enriches the training experience and enhances the overall diversity of the fellowship class

Application Process and Competitiveness

To apply to the fellowship, candidates are encouraged to utilize the AAMC’s ERAS system, indicating an organized application process that adheres to national standards. The program is recognized for being competitive, attracting applicants from various backgrounds including DOs and international medical graduates (IMGs).

Special Application Requirements

Candidates should be mindful of specific application requirements, which may include conditions related to graduation year and performance on standardized tests, ensuring that those applying meet the high standards characteristic of training at CHOP. Notably, fellows who wish to pursue an instructor position for an extended period after graduation to enhance research training are also supported.