Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship at Emory University is a prestigious one-year training program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS). This fellowship is designed to provide comprehensive clinical training in cutaneous surgery and oncology, particularly focused on Mohs micrographic surgery and complex reconstruction practices. Trainees will benefit from notable learning experiences through exposure to various cases, as the fellowship allows fellows to complete a minimum of 600 surgical cases during their training period.

This fellowship is primarily located at three key training sites: Emory Clinic, the Atlanta VA Medical Center, and the private offices of faculty members. These diverse settings facilitate a rich learning environment in both surgical and oncologic specialties, enhancing the fellows' skillsets as they interact with multidisciplinary teams including otolaryngology, facial plastics, radiation oncology, plastic surgery, and oculoplastics 1.

In addition to hands-on clinical training, the program emphasizes the importance of scholarly activity and professional development. Fellows will participate in regular journal clubs, a weekly tumor board, and have opportunities to assist in teaching Emory Dermatology residents through didactic sessions and by supervising procedure clinics at the Atlanta VA Medical Center. This focus on mentorship not only enriches the educational environment but also supports the professional growth of the fellows 1.

Application Process and Requirements

The Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship actively participates in the San Francisco Matching Program, which is exclusive to US and Canadian residents. The matching process occurs in December and is specifically for those looking to commence fellowship training in the following July. To apply, fellowship applicants must fulfill specific eligibility criteria:

• Must be board-eligible or board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology.
• Must maintain a Georgia medical license by the time fellowship training begins.

The application deadlines include submission materials due by August 1, 2024. A personal statement and letters of reference are needed to support the application, ensuring that candidates can articulate their goals and qualifications clearly and effectively 1.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program offers visa sponsorship options, including the J-1 visa, to qualified international applicants, making it an attractive choice for international medical graduates (IMGs) and foreign medical students. The program has distinguished itself as DO/IMG friendly, encouraging applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. This openness attracts a wide range of candidates, fostering a competitive selection process for fellows looking to train at Emory 1.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum of the Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship is tailored to provide a breadth of learning opportunities in cutaneous surgery, with an emphasis on Mohs surgical techniques. Fellows are trained under the guidance of fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons in a setting that not only advances clinical capabilities but also promotes innovative surgical techniques. The wide variety of skin cancer cases encountered during the fellowship ensures that fellows leave the program well-prepared for independent practice 1.