Lehigh Valley Health Network Program

Overview

The Hematology and Oncology Fellowship at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) offers a comprehensive and intensive training program aimed at providing fellows with the necessary skills to excel in the field. The program is committed to high standards of patient care, education, and research, aligning itself with the goals of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to enhance quality and accessibility in community settings.1

Established in 2013, the fellowship is designed as a three-year program that encourages clinical and academic proficiency, providing fellows with outstanding opportunities for both learning and professional growth. The program focuses on various sub-specialties, including benign and malignant hematology, breast cancer, gastrointestinal (GI) cancer, genitourinary (GU) cancer, central nervous system (CNS) malignancies, and more.1

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to maximize educational impact through a blend of clinical rotations, research activities, and didactic learning. The objectives for each training year are meticulously outlined:

Year 1

The first year emphasizes the development of fundamental skills in clinical hematology and oncology:

• Hematology Inpatient Rotation: Engagement in rounds and management of inpatient chemotherapy orders.
• Oncology Inpatient Rotation: Focus on managing initial diagnostic plans and complications of chemotherapy.
• Bone Marrow Transplant: Exposure to different types of transplants and complications.
• Blood Bank/Pathology: Hands-on experience with laboratory techniques.
• Continuity Clinic: Outpatient consultative hematology and oncology care.

Year 2

This year aims to build on the first year by enhancing independence and clinical judgement:

• Hematology/Oncology Inpatient Rotation: Focus on inpatient responsibilities with greater autonomy.
• Oncology Outpatient Rotation: Experience in radiation oncology and gynecologic oncology.
• Palliative Care: Skills in managing end-of-life care.
• Research Activity: Support for engaging in independent research projects.

Year 3

The final year emphasizes advanced outpatient oncology care and continued research:

• Outpatient Oncology Clinic: Direct patient care with a focus on outpatient chemotherapy.
• Research Project: Development and completion of a scholarly activity under faculty mentorship.

Fellows participate in multiple didactic conferences covering a variety of hematology and oncology topics to ensure comprehensive knowledge acquisition throughout the program.4

Training Sites

LVHN is one of the largest hospitals in Pennsylvania, offering a rich clinical environment suitable for diverse training experiences. The integration of community hospital resources with those of a large academic center provides a unique opportunity for fellows.1

Research Opportunities

Research is integrated into the fellowship experience, with fellows expected to participate in scholarly projects. This may include clinical research, systematic literature reviews, and qualitative studies. LVHN has established itself as a leader in immunotherapy clinical trials, providing fellows with ample opportunities to engage in impactful research work.7

Application Requirements

The program accepts three fellows annually into the three-year training program. Candidates must complete an ACGME- or AOA-accredited internal medicine residency and pass the USMLE/COMLEX Steps I, II, and III. The program also offers visa sponsorship, including J1 and H1B visa categories for international medical graduates. Observerships or externships are not provided.2

Competitiveness and Diversity

The fellowship is competitive, and while it accommodates both DO and IMG candidates, having relevant research experience can enhance an applicant's profile. The program also values diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging among its fellows, faculty, and the community.3

Benefits

Fellows are provided with substantial benefits, including:

• 19 vacation days per year
• Competitive salary
• Malpractice and health insurance coverage
• Continuing education funds

In addition, fellows enjoy access to wellness programs, fitness centers, and nearby housing options, making life in the Lehigh Valley an attractive prospect.6