Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at Penn State College of Medicine is an esteemed three-year program based at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and the Penn State Cancer Institute. This ACGME-accredited fellowship is designed to provide comprehensive training and admit four fellows each year.

Fellows in the program can look forward to earning board certifications in both Hematology and Oncology through an integrated curriculum. The training structure delivers a robust foundation across clinical medicine in hematology and oncology, culminating with opportunities to specialize based on fellow’s career aspirations.

Fellowship Structure

The program's duration is segmented into two primary phases. The first 18 months focus on foundational clinical experience through inpatient consults and outpatient care. The final 18 months enable comprehensive specialization through four distinct, non-competitive tracks:

• Generalist Track: Tailored for those pursuing community-based practice.
• Disease Focus Track: Suited for fellows aiming for academic medicine with clinical research interests.
• Research Track/ABIM Pathway: Focuses on laboratory or translational research.
• Clinician Educator Track: For those keen on advancing clinical education in medicine.

Hematology Track Specifics

The Hematology Track within the fellowship is geared towards addressing complex blood disorders, particularly in benign hematology. Trainees will engage in extensive research projects to be completed in the latter half of the two-year training.

Training Sites and Experience

Training predominantly occurs at a major university hospital, with fellows gaining experience in a variety of clinical settings including:

• Stem cell transplant programs
• Dedicated Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center
• Sickle cell clinic
• Cancer genetics programs
• Palliative care services

Fellows are also afforded opportunities to participate in clinical trials via the dedicated Cancer Institute Clinical Trials Office, collaborating with networks such as Big Ten and ECOG.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to become involved in basic science and clinical trials. The fellowship supports various research interests, notably those focusing on endocrine oncology, immunology related to transplants and outcomes, along with population science and tumor biology. Active involvement in research will be emphasized throughout the training.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the fellowship requires candidates to hold an MD or DO degree. Applicants should be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or holders of a J-1 training visa as per the program’s institutional policies. Candidates must have successfully completed an ACGME-accredited internal medicine residency and be board-eligible by the start of the fellowship.

In terms of background, the program welcomes candidates from both U.S. and international medical schools, ensuring a diverse applicant pool. However, it is important to note that there are specific application requirements including the need to submit a personal statement, CV, and three letters of recommendation, one of which must come from the residency program director.

Competitiveness and Visa Support

This fellowship is considered competitive, and the program is deemed IMG-friendly, welcoming candidates from international institutions. The fellowship supports J-1 visa sponsorship, thereby facilitating the participation of international fellows.

Wellness and Resources

Recognizing the challenges faced in medical training, the program places a strong emphasis on wellness. Resources for emotional, social, and physical health are readily available to fellows. Additionally, programs promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, offering a network of support through the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The institution actively encourages a respectful learning environment, supporting the growth and education of all fellows.

Training Evaluation

Fellows’ progress will be scrutinized through regular evaluations, including monthly rotational reviews and annual system assessments. Each fellow will also participate in training for bone marrow biopsy, ensuring practical, hands-on experience in critical procedures.

Conclusion

The Penn State College of Medicine’s Hematology/Oncology Fellowship provides an extensive, tailored training program aimed at preparing fellows for a successful career in hematology and oncology. The program’s robust support structures and diverse training environments position it among leading fellowships in the nation.