Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

The Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program in Hematology and Medical Oncology is a three-year, Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited fellowship program designed to prepare trainees for board certification in both Hematology and Medical Oncology. Established in 1960, this robust fellowship program provides a unique blend of clinical training, research opportunities, and mentorship.

The program is situated in Lebanon, New Hampshire, within the Dartmouth Health system, known for its comprehensive healthcare services and academic rigor. The fellowships provide an extensive training experience that includes both inpatient and outpatient settings, allowing fellows to engage with a diverse patient population across northern New England.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Hematology/Oncology Fellowship focuses on achieving comprehensive knowledge and proficiency in clinical hematology and oncology. Over the course of the fellowship, fellows will spend 18 months on designated clinical rotations, with an additional 18 months dedicated to personalized clinical and research pursuits. Core objectives include developing clinical expertise to manage hematologic and oncologic disorders, mastering blood and marrow transplantation, and acquiring essential skills for a career in research.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with fellows expected to gain competencies in critical procedures such as chemotherapy administration and bone marrow biopsies. Didactic teaching is integrated into the curriculum to support the development of effective communication and teaching skills essential for medical practice.

Rotations and Training Sites

Fellows train at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, a leading teaching hospital, and at a neighboring Veterans Administration hospital. This dual-site model offers fellows exposure to a wide variety of clinical cases and the opportunity to collaborate with seasoned faculty members, who bring their national and international expertise to the training program.

Research Opportunities

The program provides extensive research opportunities across several domains, including Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Population Science, and Immunology & Cancer Immunotherapy. Fellows will have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty from various disciplines, including engineering and public health, at the Dartmouth Thayer School of Engineering and The Dartmouth Institute.

Unique Aspects

As Northern New England's only NCI-designated Cancer Center, the program serves as a vital hub for clinical research, offering access to cutting-edge treatments such as stem cell transplants, CAR-T therapies, and immunotherapy. The fellowship program emphasizes a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all fellows are supported throughout their training.

Visa Support

The fellowship program offers visa sponsorship to eligible international applicants. Typically, the program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas for international medical graduates in compliance with United States immigration regulations. It is essential for candidates to hold a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certification to be considered for the program.

Application Process

Applications are accepted annually from August to October, with interviews being conducted virtually. The fellowship typically offers three positions per year. Application requirements include graduation from an LCME-accredited medical school, completion of an accredited Internal Medicine residency, and board eligibility in Internal Medicine. Furthermore, applicants must submit standard ERAS materials, including a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and proof of USMLE or COMLEX examinations completion.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The program is known to be highly competitive, welcoming applications from various backgrounds, including DO and IMG candidates. The dedication to fostering a diverse workforce is paramount, with initiatives aimed at promoting equity and inclusion within the medical community.

Life in the Upper Valley

Lebanon, New Hampshire, is situated in the picturesque Upper Valley, offering a blend of natural beauty and vibrant community life. The area boasts a range of outdoor recreational activities, cultural institutions, and access to affordable housing options. The fellowship allows for a work-life balance that encourages fellows to explore the surrounding landscapes, engage with local arts and cultural events, and enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits.