Lehigh Valley Health Network Program

The Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology (MSDO) Fellowship at Lehigh Valley Health Network is dedicated to equipping fellows with the expertise and skills essential for excelling in the field of Mohs surgery. As an educational program, it focuses on providing comprehensive training that includes patient care, surgical technique, and scholarly activities which are pivotal for effective treatment of cutaneous malignancies.

Program Mission

The mission of the MSDO Fellowship is to educate and train fellows for a successful future in Mohs surgery, which is a cost-effective and patient-focused technique associated with high cure rates for common skin cancers. Fellows are expected to actively engage in patient care, educating others, and contributing to research endeavors to advance the field. Attributes such as self-motivation, responsiveness to mentorship, and dedication to patient care are crucial for success in this program 1.

Curriculum Structure

The fellowship curriculum provides a structured approach that allows for increased responsibilities over time, alongside operative and non-operative education. This framework ensures comprehensive exposure to both common and rare dermatologic issues, particularly cutaneous malignancies. Fellows follow a well-defined block schedule and have opportunities for mentorship from experienced faculty members. In addition to primary surgical training, an elective block permits additional learning in related surgical subspecialties including otolaryngology and plastic surgery 3.

Research and Scholarly Activity

The fellowship places a strong emphasis on research and scholarly work. All fellows are required to engage in research projects, quality improvement initiatives, and to generate publications during their training. Participation in national or state meetings through abstract submissions is also mandated, thus promoting active engagement with the broader medical community 8.

Faculty and Mentorship

Fellows are trained by accomplished faculty members who provide both clinical and academic mentorship. The program's faculty includes experienced attendings who are dedicated to shaping the next generation of dermatologic surgeons, ensuring a strong foundation in both practical and theoretical aspects of the discipline 4.

Program Benefits

The fellowship also offers distinct benefits including a competitive salary and various allowances aimed at supporting educational development. Fellows are allocated vacation days, conference allowances, and access to essential resources such as journals and subscriptions related to dermatology. These benefits help fellows in maintaining a work-life balance while pursuing professional growth 2.

Training Sites

The training occurs primarily in outpatient settings conveniently located within the Lehigh Valley region. This proximity facilitates a seamless experience for fellows to integrate clinical learning and surgical practice while serving a diverse patient population 1.

Living in the Lehigh Valley

The program is situated in the Lehigh Valley, a region noted for its rapid development and affordable living. The area is approximately 60 miles from Philadelphia and 80 miles from New York City, providing easy access to urban amenities and recreational activities. Living in this region allows fellows to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with cultural events, outdoor activities, and community amenities that enhance their overall experience during fellowship training 5.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, providing support for those who qualify. Typical visa types sponsored include J-1 and H-1B visas, enabling international fellows to pursue their training at the institution while ensuring compliance with United States immigration regulations.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Admission into the MSDO Fellowship can be competitive. The program is open to candidates who have completed their dermatology residency, and specific application requirements may include criteria such as year of graduation and restrictions on failed examinations. Prospective fellows are encouraged to review all application specifications to ensure a thorough and compliant submission.