MedStar Health Georgetown University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Hematology and medical oncologyACGME Code:
1551012148The MedStar Health—Georgetown/Washington Hospital Center Fellowship Program in Hematology and Medical Oncology offers a comprehensive and robust training experience tailored to meet the individual needs of fellows. Situated in Washington, D.C., the program operates primarily within a safety-net hospital that manages the highest number of new cancer diagnoses in the area. This facilitates a diverse clinical training environment that emphasizes autonomy and solid preparation for future careers in hematology and oncology.
Fellows typically begin their training with a rigorous focus on clinical practice during the first two years, honing the skills essential for the subspecialty board exams. Post-completion, many graduates pursue academic careers, benefiting from the strong reputation of the program in the medical community.1
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum is designed to foster both clinical and research expertise, with opportunities for affiliations with prestigious institutions such as Georgetown University Hospital, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. The fellowship program also supports rotations at the Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP) and the FDA, ensuring exposure to cutting-edge oncology practices.
In addition to core clinical rotations, fellows can engage in community subspecialty training and positions at the VA Medical Center, which enhances their experience in treating diverse patient populations. Each fellow has the option to select unique training tracks aligned with their specific clinical and research interests after the initial eighteen months of training.1
Research Opportunities
The program encourages fellows to engage in substantial research activities, offering access to numerous affiliated institutions. There are ample opportunities to participate in committees for the American Society of Hematology (ASH) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), which have their headquarters in the same city. This exposure provides fellows with a broader understanding of professional standards and innovations in hematology and oncology research.1
Visa Support and Requirements
The MedStar Health hematology and oncology fellowship program provides visa support, allowing it to sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas. This is particularly advantageous for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking advanced specialized training in the United States.
Competitiveness of the Program
The fellowship is considered highly competitive, with a combined quota of six fellows, following the merger of the MedStar Georgetown University and Washington Hospital Center fellowship programs. This competitive nature attracts a diverse cohort of applicants, including international medical graduates and those with osteopathic degrees, making it inclusive for various backgrounds.1
Special Application Requirements
The fellowship program has specific application requirements that potential applicants must fulfill. Individuals interested in applying should be aware of the general expectations regarding their year of graduation and any limitations on previous STEP exam failures. Prospective fellows should prepare accordingly to present a strong application, as the selection process is rigorous.1
Summary of Training Environment
The MedStar Health fellowship program provides an unparalleled training experience, combining clinical exposure with robust research opportunities. The diverse patient population and extensive resources from affiliated academic institutions foster a rich learning environment for fellows. The integration of various disciplines within the program further enhances the educational experience, offering extensive mentorship and professional development for aspiring hematologists and oncologists.1
Website
Director
Aarthi Shenoy, MDProfessor of Medicine, Hematology/ Oncology Appointed Since September 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
