Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center/New York Presbyterian Hospital (Cornell Campus) Program

Overview of the Fellowship Program

The Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry/Psycho-Oncology Fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and New York Presbyterian Hospital offers a unique opportunity for advanced training in the subspecialty of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry with a specific emphasis on Psycho-Oncology. Established nearly 50 years ago, this program is recognized as one of the largest and oldest in the nation, boasting ACGME accreditation since the inception of subspecialty certification in 2005. Fellows predominantly rotate at Memorial Sloan Kettering, engaging in both inpatient consultations and outpatient clinics, while also gaining essential general Consultation-Liaison experience at New York Presbyterian Hospital 1.

Fellowship Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive exposure to a wide range of clinical experiences in both oncology and general psychiatry. The first year is accredited and consists of rotations primarily at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, complemented by additional experiences at New York Presbyterian Hospital throughout the training year. This structure ensures that fellows receive robust training addressing both psychiatric and medical complexities commonly faced by cancer patients 1.

Psycho-Oncology Focus

The program places a significant focus on Psycho-Oncology, the field dealing with the psychiatric care of cancer patients. As the discipline has evolved, it now encompasses not only patients with premorbid psychiatric histories but also those encountering psychological distress due to their diagnosis. The fellowship prepares clinicians to manage a myriad of challenges, including delirium, end-of-life issues, and the mental health needs of caregivers 1.

Research Opportunities

Another hallmark of the fellowship is the strong emphasis on research. Fellows are provided opportunities to participate in pioneering studies related to psychiatric complications in cancer patients, including interventions which focus on improvement of clinical outcomes in this population. The department is engaged in research aimed at developing psychotherapeutic techniques targeted at managing distress related to cancer 1.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

Eligibility for the fellowship requires completion of an ACGME- or ACGME-I-accredited residency in psychiatry by the fellowship start date. Successful applicants must also be eligible for a New York State medical license. The program typically accepts six fellows each year, offering a competitive pathway for training in this subspecialty 1.

The application process requires candidates to submit a personal statement, curriculum vitae, and three letters of reference, including one from their residency Program Director. Additional documents, such as diplomas and certificates, are also required. The program accepts applications through its own Embark system, as well as other common platforms including ACLP and ERAS 1.

Visa Support and Housing

The program facilitates visa support for eligible international applicants, making it welcoming to applicants from diverse backgrounds. Available housing is provided for most clinical fellows, located in nearby hospital-owned apartments. For those opting for external accommodation, staff parking facilities are accessible 1.

Stipends and Compensation

The stipend structure is based on prior training experience and is reviewed annually by the Graduate Training Committee. In 2023, stipends for PGY 5 and PGY 6 were set at $98,812 and $103,213, respectively. Typically, stipends increase by six to eight percent each year, ensuring competitive ongoing compensation for fellows 1.

Location and Facilities

Located at 1275 York Avenue in Manhattan, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center stands adjacent to New York Presbyterian and Weill Medical College of Cornell University. This geographic proximity enables a collaborative training environment. Clinical fellows are provided with office space equipped with the necessary resources to support both their academic and clinical duties. In addition to the main hospital, fellows have access to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Counseling Center, an ambulatory care facility dedicated to outpatient psychiatric services 1.