Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a comprehensive, three-year ACGME-accredited program designed to train pediatricians in the specialized fields of hematology and oncology. The program accepts up to four fellows annually, allowing for a focused and individualized training experience.

This fellowship is structured to prepare candidates for board certification in both Hematology and Oncology, catering to those who have completed an ACGME-accredited pediatric residency program. The training foundation consists of clinical practice, research opportunities, and didactic learning, covering a broad spectrum of pediatric hematology and oncology.

Program Structure

The fellowship lasts three years, with the first year primarily focused on clinical experiences across a variety of settings. The fellows will engage in:

• Outpatient clinical experiences where they handle diverse cases.
• Inpatient care and consult services to develop the necessary practical skills.
• Integration with other specialties, including radiation oncology, palliative care, and genetics.

The subsequent years will allow fellows to tailor their experiences based on their career aspirations, from focusing on clinical practices to dedicating time to research projects. The fellowship includes:

• Generalist Track: For those pursuing community-based practice.
• Research Track/ABIM Pathway: For those interested in clinical or translational research.
• Clinician Educator Track: Aimed at those focusing on clinical teaching.

Fellows will participate in comprehensive training experiences which provide direct patient care while developing teaching and research competencies.

Curriculum and Rotations

The training curriculum incorporates numerous rotations to enrich clinical knowledge and skills:

• Hematology consultation services at both inpatient and outpatient levels.
• Oncology consultation including comprehensive management of pediatric cancers.
• Exposure to specialized conditions and advanced techniques for treatment, including stem cell transplants and novel therapies.

In addition to clinical training, fellows are encouraged to participate in research projects, allowing them to present findings in conferences and journals, crucial for those interested in an academic career in medicine.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital aspect of the fellowship, with fellows expected to develop and complete an original research project. Training supports participation in ongoing clinical trials at the Penn State Cancer Institute, a pivotal resource for fellows engaged in research while ensuring practical exposure to diverse therapeutic modalities.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A distinctive feature of the program includes the opportunity for fellows to experience exposure at multiple facilities:

• Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a major academic hospital.
• Access to community-based settings to understand the practical aspects of delivering care in less urban environments.
• Active involvement with local and regional pediatric hematology/oncology patients.

Further, the program's affiliation with the Pediatric Cancer Foundation enhances specialized research opportunities, facilitating the development of evidence-based practice in hematology and oncology.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is competitive, drawing on a pool of well-qualified candidates. Specific application prerequisites include:

• Completion of a pediatric residency program.
• Possession of an MD or DO degree.
• Eligibility to apply for a J-1 training visa for international candidates.

Application materials must include an ERAS application, CV, medical school transcript, USMLE scores, and three letters of recommendation (with at least one from a pediatric residency program director).

Visa Support

The program supports international applicants by offering J-1 training visas, making it accessible for candidates from diverse backgrounds to train at this distinguished institution.

Wellness and Diversity Initiatives

Recognizing the importance of wellness in medical training, the program incorporates resources aimed at supporting fellows' emotional and physical health. Furthermore, Penn State is committed to diversity and inclusivity, hosting workshops and resource groups to promote a vibrant and welcoming environment for all trainees.