Hackensack University Medical Center Program

The Hematology and Medical Oncology Fellowship at Hackensack University Medical Center aims to train future leaders in the field by providing a comprehensive academic and clinical experience. The program is committed to equipping fellows with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver compassionate care for patients with hematologic and neoplastic disorders. Recognizing the evolving nature of hematology/oncology, the fellowship emphasizes exceptional clinical care, social awareness, communication, and scholarship as its core principles 1.

hackensack University Medical Center's John Theurer Cancer Center (JTCC) is a recognized leader in cancer care, ranked among the top 50 cancer centers in the nation. The center encompasses 16 specialized divisions and provides comprehensive services spanning diagnosis, treatment, management, research, screening, and survivorship of patients with various cancers. The collaboration with the National Cancer Institute-designated Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center further strengthens the program's research capabilities, enabling fellows to participate in cutting-edge clinical trials and innovative therapies 1.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship program consists of three years of intensive training, structured to maximize both clinical and scholarly development. The first two years are geared towards acquiring in-depth clinical experience through various rotations. These rotations encompass:

• Leukemia
• Lymphoma
• Plasma Cell Dyscrasias
• Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy
• Gastrointestinal and Thoracic Oncology
• Breast, Gynecologic, Genitourinary, and Head and Neck Oncology
• Melanoma, Sarcoma, and Neurologic Oncology
• Phase I Therapeutics
• Palliative Care
• Benign Hematology Consultation
• Hematopathology
• Laboratory Medicine, including Coagulation and Transfusion Medicine

The third year focuses primarily on mentored scholarly activities, allowing fellows to pursue projects in clinical research, health services research, translational or laboratory-based research, and medical education tailored to their career aspirations 6.

Training and Conferences

A key component of the fellowship includes participation in mentored continuity clinics that last from six to twelve months, providing ongoing patient care experience. Additionally, fellows are expected to engage in various educational conferences, didactic lectures, and tumor boards. Regularly scheduled conferences include:

• Leukemia Conference / BMT Conference - Weekly, Tuesday
• Myeloma / BMT Conference - Weekly, Wednesday
• Lymphoma Research Meetings - Weekly
• Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Review
• Annual ASH Review
• Weekly Multidisciplinary Tumor Boards

This rigorous educational activity is designed to deepen fellows' understanding of current advancements and provide a platform for continuous professional growth 6.

Application Requirements

The fellowship program offers two positions per year and applications are processed through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). Interested candidates should be board-certified in internal medicine and submit their applications by August 1 for consideration. Additional required documents include:

• Common application through ERAS
• Medical school transcript
• Dean’s letter (MSPE)
• Three letters of recommendation
• USMLE Step 1 and Step 2/COMLEX Part 1 and 2 scores
• Personal statement
• Photo

The program primarily sponsors J1 visas and does not support H-1B visas, making it critical for international medical graduates to be aware of their visa options 2.

Living and Working in New Jersey

Life as a fellow at Hackensack Meridian is enriched by the supportive environment of Hackensack University Medical Center, which is one of New Jersey's largest healthcare networks. The John Theurer Cancer Center's location offers convenience, as it is positioned close to major highways and public transportation, along with easy access to the vibrant culture and activities of the New York City metropolitan area. The fellowship environment promotes well-being through its commitment to physical fitness, as evidenced by the adjacent HackensackUMC Fitness & Wellness center, which offers an array of fitness opportunities 3.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship features a diverse and accomplished faculty dedicated to mentoring fellows throughout their training. With expertise in various domains of hematology and oncology, faculty members are committed to fostering an environment of respect, learning, and professional development. Many faculty members engage in significant research, providing fellows with opportunities to gain exposure to innovative clinical practices and cutting-edge therapies 4.

Fellowship Life

Fellows are afforded numerous opportunities to enrich their training experience through a supportive community and excellent resources. In addition to academic enrichment, fellows also benefit personally from the dynamic lifestyle options available in New Jersey. The area is known for its cultural offerings, diverse culinary scene, and access to outdoor activities that promote a well-balanced lifestyle 5.