Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Rochester) Program

Program Overview

The Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship at Mayo Clinic's Rochester, Minnesota campus is a one-year program that focuses on Mohs micrographic surgery, cutaneous reconstructive surgery, and various aspects of dermatologic surgery, including laser and cosmetic procedures. It provides a comprehensive training experience in dermatologic oncology, covering essential topics such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and other skin malignancies.

Fellows in the program engage in surgery operations 90% of the year, with the remaining time dedicated to working in a clinical practice oriented towards dermatologic oncology, collaborating with staff and residents.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to impart extensive knowledge and skills required for a successful career in dermatologic surgery. It includes:

• Training in Mohs micrographic surgery, including tumor layering, laboratory processing, and pathological specimen interpretation.
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• Hands-on experiences to gain competency in managing a diverse range of cutaneous cancers.
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• Proficiency in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures tailored to patients with skin diseases or those seeking cosmetic enhancements.
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• Leadership training that consists of structured discussions on conflict resolution, feedback mechanisms, understanding implicit biases, and emotional intelligence.
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Research Opportunities

Fellows are required to design and conduct a research project from inception to completion, supported by a wealth of resources available at Mayo Clinic. This aspect emphasizes the importance of critical inquiry and independent research skills within the field.

Teaching and Training

Throughout the fellowship, fellows engage in teaching Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine students through bedside clinical instruction and formal lectures, further refining their communication and leadership abilities.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship program is staffed by a highly skilled faculty from the Department of Dermatology, who are recognized for their expertise across various specialties in dermatology. The department performs over 18,000 surgical procedures annually and interprets over 30,000 specimens in dermatopathology.

Fellows are assigned a faculty adviser for personalized education guidance and personal support, facilitating a comprehensive mentorship experience.

Call Schedule

During the fellowship, fellows partake in secondary on-call duties, while primary calls are managed by dermatology residents. This system ensures adequate coverage and support throughout various clinical settings.

Application Process and Requirements

The program has three PGY-5 positions available annually. Applicants must meet specific qualifications:

• Eligibility to sit for or holding certification in dermatology from the American Board of Dermatology.
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• Completion of a three-year dermatology residency program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.
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All applications are processed through the San Francisco Match, with a deadline of August 1 for the academic year starting in July. Additionally, interviews are conducted typically from September to November.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, commonly for J-1 and H-1B visa types. This support allows qualified candidates to participate in the fellowship program, promoting an inclusive and diverse training environment.

Competitiveness

The fellowship program at Mayo Clinic is known to be highly competitive, attracting a diverse range of applicants, including international medical graduates and DO candidates. Strong qualifications and a commitment to dermatologic surgery are crucial for a successful application.