San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium Program

The San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium (SAUSHEC) Hematology and Medical Oncology Fellowship program is a three-year military fellowship program based at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. This program is designed for active duty members of the U.S. Military, who must have completed medical school and an internal medicine residency prior to entering the fellowship. The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and offers an immersive experience in both clinical and research settings.

Graduates of the program are expected to be proficient in diagnosing and managing a wide range of hematologic and oncologic conditions. A significant component of training involves participation in multidisciplinary tumor boards, direct patient care, and didactic learning through case conferences and lectures, which are scheduled regularly throughout the week.

Curriculum Structure

The fellowship curriculum emphasizes a broad range of hematology and oncology topics, including but not limited to:

• Ambulatory oncology
• Inpatient oncology and hematology
• Genetics of cancer
• Benign hematology
• Palliative care
• Bone marrow transplant

Fellows engage in structured lectures, case presentations, and research methodology discussions. A unique aspect of this program is its integrated approach to learning, combining clinical care with formal educational sessions designed to reinforce core clinical skills and immersive research training.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows will experience the following critical rotations throughout their training:

• Inpatient Hematology/Oncology Wards
• Inpatient Hematology/Oncology Consults
• Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)

Each of these rotations is structured to provide fellows with a robust clinical education, including hands-on management of patients and active participation in consultative care teams.

Research and Scholarly Activity

The SAUSHEC Hematology and Medical Oncology Fellowship program places a strong emphasis on research, with opportunities for fellows to participate in numerous clinical trials. Fellows are required to publish at least one manuscript as the primary author during their fellowship, which can also include case reports. Additionally, the program collaborates actively with multiple institutions for clinical trials, providing a rich environment for research engagement.

Special Features and Leadership Training

The program features a Military Unique Curriculum that has been initiated in partnership with Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. This curriculum focuses on leadership development, practical management of hematological emergencies, and a thorough understanding of healthcare disparities within military medicine. Fellows will also learn specific skills applicable to working with military service members, including cancer management and the implications of deployment and service-related health issues.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is selective, focusing on applicants who are active-duty military personnel with exceptional training backgrounds. While there are no categorical year specialty requirements, candidates should demonstrate strong competencies from their previous medical education and training. The fellowship program remains open to graduates from various medical schools, including international graduates provided they fulfill the necessary military service commitments.

Visa Support

As a military-based program, the SAUSHEC Hematology and Medical Oncology Fellowship does not typically provide visa sponsorship due to its requirement of active military status. Applicants must already possess appropriate military visas or handles such matters through their military service.

Teaching and Faculty Engagement

Fellows will have opportunities to contribute to the academic environment by presenting lectures and participating in teaching activities. The faculty comprises board-certified professionals in their respective fields, ensuring fellows receive mentorship and guidance from experienced practitioners.1