Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Thoracic Pathology Program
Specialty:
Selective pathologyACGME Code:
3013512059Overview of the Thoracic Pathology Fellowship
The Thoracic Pathology Fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) is a one-year program that offers comprehensive training in thoracic pathology and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program is designed for individuals who have completed training in anatomic pathology and are either certified by or eligible for certification by the American Board of Pathology.
MSKCC is renowned for its expertise in diagnosing pulmonary, pleural, and mediastinal diseases. The fellowship benefits from the collaborative efforts of a multidisciplinary team, which includes thoracic surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pulmonologists, and molecular biologists, offering fellows a rich and diverse learning environment.
Clinical Rotations
Fellows participate in a structured rotation system that provides exposure to a variety of clinical scenarios:
1. MSKCC Hospital Service
During the hospital service rotation, fellows gain experience by reviewing all thoracic biopsies and resections performed at MSKCC. This includes specimens from the lung, pleura, and mediastinum. The high volume of cases allows fellows to tackle both routine and complex diagnostic challenges, honing their skills in accurate staging, treatment effect assessment, and correlation with radiological and cytological findings.
Furthermore, fellows become proficient in advanced testing methods, such as immunohistochemistry and molecular testing, including MSK-IMPACT for DNA sequencing and MSK-Fusion for RNA sequencing, which are essential for personalized medicine approaches.
2. Consultation Service
This rotation enables fellows to manage a consultation service, where they deal with cases sent for second opinions on challenging neoplastic and non-neoplastic thoracic specimens. The exposure to a wide range of cases, including interstitial lung disease, allows fellows to develop their diagnostic skills alongside senior staff who guide them through complex decision-making processes.
Additionally, fellows have opportunities to integrate radiologic data by reviewing high-resolution CT scans in correlation with histopathology.
3. Translational Research
Engaging in translational research is a pivotal component of the fellowship. Fellows are expected to participate in research projects that culminate in publication or presentation at national conferences. Under the mentorship of thoracic pathologists, fellows have access to a vast repository of clinical material, facilitating comprehensive research opportunities in thoracic diseases.
A digitized consultation study set containing 1000 cases is also provided for educational purposes.
Conferences and Educational Experiences
The program includes participation in various conferences that foster multidisciplinary collaboration. Fellows present cases at the weekly thoracic tumor board, monthly pulmonary and infectious disease conferences, as well as the thoracic pathology consensus conference, interacting with specialists from multiple disciplines.
Application Process and Requirements
Prospective applicants must prepare several documents, including three letters of recommendation addressing the program director, a CV, and a medical school diploma. International medical school graduates must provide proof of their Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certification with a “valid indefinitely” statement.
The program has three ACGME-accredited positions available each year, and it welcomes applications from diverse applicants, including DOs and IMGs.
Visa Support
MSKCC provides visa sponsorship for eligible international fellows, enhancing accessibility for qualified candidates from around the globe.
Competitiveness of the Program
The Thoracic Pathology Fellowship at MSKCC is highly competitive, attracting candidates from top training programs. The program values diverse backgrounds and experiences, offering opportunities to candidates holding both MD and DO degrees, as well as international medical graduates who meet the application criteria.
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Director
William D Travis, MDDirector, Thoracic Pathology Fellowship Program Appointed Since July 2005Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
40 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
10 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$99,481First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
2.3XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
New York, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in New York, NY
- Crime Rate and Safety: New York City has improved its safety over the years, but like any big city, it does have some crime. However, most areas where medical residents live and work are considered safe.
- Fun Activities: New York City is a hub of culture, entertainment, and dining. From Broadway shows to world-class museums and iconic landmarks like Central Park and the Statue of Liberty, there's always something to do.
- Climate: New York City experiences all four seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures.
- Races and Population: New York City is one of the most diverse cities in the world, with a large population of various races and ethnicities.
- Education: New York City is home to prestigious universities and medical centers, offering ample opportunities for learning and networking.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in New York City is high, particularly for housing. Medical residents may need to budget carefully to afford living in the city.
- Nearby Cities: Other major cities like Philadelphia and Boston are within a few hours' drive of New York City. Philadelphia is about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car, while Boston is around 3.5 to 4 hours away.
- Pros: Diverse culture, countless entertainment options, easy access to top medical facilities.
- Cons: High cost of living, crowded and fast-paced environment.