Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals (MCWAH) is an ACGME-accredited two-year program designed for fellows seeking advanced training in surgical oncology, with a notable focus on Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) surgery. This unique fellowship offers a pathway for graduates to achieve dual certification by sitting for both the American Board of Surgery CGSO Board Certification and the AHPBA HPB Surgery certification. The program is tailored for individuals aiming to excel in academic surgery, where they will receive intensive mentorship and training, enabling them to make substantial contributions to the field.

The fellowship incorporates clinical, research, and educational experiences to ensure that fellows are prepared to become competent and confident surgical oncologists. The curriculum is structured around several key components, including the development of humanistic attitudes essential for excellent patient care, enhancing technical surgical skills, and fostering mature surgical judgment through rigorous clinical practice and research exposure.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship, applicants must meet several key educational qualifications:

• Successful completion of an ACGME-accredited general surgery residency program in the United States or Canada.
• International medical graduates must possess a valid ECFMG certificate.
• All applicants are required to have passed each of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) steps.
• At the time of entry, applicants must be board eligible or board certified general surgeons.
• Candidates must be eligible to obtain licensure to practice medicine in the State of Wisconsin prior to the start of the fellowship year.

Visa sponsorship is available for applicants who meet these qualifications. The program accepts candidates with visas that permit employment and starts the fellowship as specified. It is essential for candidates to secure the appropriate visa, as the training position will not be held without it.

Clinical Experience

The clinical training is comprehensive, covering all aspects of surgical oncology. Fellows will be involved in evaluating patients, treatment planning, and the management of postoperative care. Key rotations in the program include:

• Breast
• Colorectal
• Endocrine
• Hepatobiliary and Pancreas
• Medical oncology
• Melanoma / Sarcoma / Gastrointestinal / Peritoneal malignancies
• Radiation oncology
• Surgical pathology

Moreover, fellows can select elective rotations based on their specific interests, such as genetics, obstetrics and gynecology, and palliative care services, among others.

Curriculum and Conferences

The curriculum is extensive, comprising weekly conferences focusing on case discussions, morbidity and mortality reviews, and grand rounds. Various educational opportunities are integrated into the timetable:

• Weekly CGSO Fellows' Conference
• Service-specific educational conferences
• Journal clubs
• Quarterly SSO National Video Conference Series
• Annual SSO Fellows Institute and AHPBA Annual Meeting

This structure is designed to optimize the fellows' learning experience while promoting their research involvement throughout the fellowship. All fellows are expected to develop a research plan with dedicated mentors, ensuring resources and protected research time are allocated to facilitate productive outcomes.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship emphasizes research skill development and provides extensive support through dedicated faculty mentors and detailed database resources. Fellows are expected to complete at least two research projects that yield manuscripts ready for publication. This commitment to research not only enhances the fellows' academic portfolio but also contributes to the scientific community in surgical oncology.

Benefits and Employment Terms

Fellows benefit from a competitive compensation package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, along with free parking and a three-week paid vacation. Educational leave is also available upon receiving approval from the Program Director.

Living in Milwaukee

Fellows have the opportunity to live in Milwaukee, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene and diverse activities. From music festivals like Summerfest to a variety of local dining and recreational options, the city offers a unique atmosphere that enhances the fellowship experience.