Hackensack University Medical Center Program

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at Hackensack University Medical Center is designed to prepare graduates for careers as academic clinicians and clinician scientists within a three-year training framework. This program, part of the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, delivers comprehensive exposure to an extensive variety of diagnoses in hematology and oncology, including transplant and research opportunities within the New Jersey healthcare network.

During the three-year curriculum, fellows benefit from supervision by 13 full-time faculty members specifically in hematology and oncology. The program fosters collaboration with over 100 seasoned pediatric faculty, encompassing all pediatric subspecialties and various professionals including advanced practice nurses, social workers, and therapists. This collaborative environment, paired with a diverse patient population, is critical in developing competent fellows prepared for successful careers in medicine 1.

Program Structure

The first year emphasizes clinical training, enabling fellows to build vital clinical and procedural skills. Fellows participate in one outpatient continuity clinic each week, fostering long-term relationships with patients. Their experience includes six 4-week blocks in inpatient hematology/oncology or Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) services, outpatient clinic time, and various specialty rotations. Towards the end of the first year, fellows identify a research project and mentor, supervised by a Scholarly Oversight Committee to monitor research progress 5.

The second year transitions focus towards either lab-based or clinical research. Each fellow can collaborate with a lab at the Center for Discovery and Innovation or develop a clinical research project under faculty mentorship. The independence in patient care increases during this year alongside continuous involvement in continuity clinics and divisional conferences.

By the third year, fellows concentrate on completing their research projects, culminating in scholarly products like a publication or grant proposal. Continuous outpatient continuity clinic and attendance at divisional conferences remain part of their schedule, along with the pursuit of post-fellowship employment opportunities 6.

Clinical Rotations and Training Sites

Fellows receive their clinical training mainly at the state-of-the-art Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, featuring a dedicated pediatric hematology/oncology/stem cell transplant unit with 16 beds and a Pediatric Critical Care Unit with 15 beds. They are exposed to various clinical diagnoses and therapies, such as stem cell and cellular therapies, alongside engaging in consultations and managing primary cases in outpatient settings.

The Reuten Clinic provides a chemotherapy/infusion area where fellows participate in the care of numerous patients daily. Moreover, unique outpatient rotations allow hands-on experience with subspecialties including neuro-oncology, hematopathology, pain management, and survivorship care 4.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research, offering fellows diverse avenues tailored to their individual career aspirations. Options include engaging in laboratory research at the Center for Discovery and Innovation alongside clinical research involving invaluable experience in trial development and implementation of clinical protocols.

The Center for Discovery and Innovation features advanced research facilities, enabling fellows to be an integral part of ground-breaking studies, contributing to pressing pediatric health issues through participation in national and international trials 6.

Visa Support and Requirements

The fellowship program supports J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Applicants must meet specific requirements including completion of residency training and board eligibility in pediatrics. Additionally, the fellowship accepts candidates holding a valid ECFMG certificate for those from medical schools outside the U.S., Canada, or Puerto Rico. All parts of the USMLE must be completed within the seven-year span as mandated by New Jersey laws.

Eligibility and Competitiveness

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at Hackensack University Medical Center is designed to be highly competitive, welcoming applications from well-qualified individuals. The application process requires completion through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), where candidates must submit several documents including letters of reference and personal statements clarifying career ambitions within pediatric hematology/oncology 2.

Fellowship Life and Environment

Life as a fellow within this pediatric program is enriched not only by rigorous training but by the dynamic environment of Hackensack Meridian Health, which is recognized as one of the top healthcare workplaces. Located in northern New Jersey, the facility is conveniently accessible, surrounded by cultural amenities, excellent educational systems, and recreational areas, catering to both professional and personal growth 3.