SUNY Upstate Medical University Program
Location:
Syracuse, NYSpecialty:
Hematology and medical oncologyACGME Code:
1553531086The Hematology/Oncology Fellowship program at SUNY Upstate Medical University is designed to provide a comprehensive training experience for individuals seeking to become proficient and compassionate specialists in hematology and oncology. The program’s mission emphasizes the dual focus on education and research, aiming to cultivate highly competent clinicians who are skilled not only in medical practice but also in scientific inquiry, thereby ensuring effective patient care backed by robust evidence.1
Fellowship Program Structure
The Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at SUNY Upstate spans a total of three years, with a total of four positions available for the 2025-2026 academic year. The program combines clinical training with opportunities for research and mandates participation in core curriculum conferences and various training rotations.3
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum is structured around essential rotations that expose fellows to a wide range of hematology and oncology experiences across various clinical settings. Key rotations include:
- Inpatient Service: Fellows work with an attending, internal medicine residents, and interns to oversee and coordinate patient care while performing essential procedures such as bone marrow biopsies and writing chemotherapy orders.
- Consult Service: Responsible for initial patient evaluations, fellows collaborate on patient care plans and coordinate with oncology nurse practitioners.
- Leukemia/Stem Cell Transplant: Participating in both autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplants, fellows gain robust exposure to this critical area.5
- Syracuse Veteran's Administration Medical Center: Fellows also rotate through this facility, managing a diverse patient population and collaborating with palliative care services.
- Community Campus Services: The fellowship includes experiences at community hospitals to broaden the fellows' consultative skills.
Conferences and Research Opportunities
The fellowship includes numerous conferences such as the Hematology Pathology Conference, the Hematology Oncology Lecture Series, and various multidisciplinary conferences focused on specific cancer types.4 This dynamic environment fosters collaboration and enhances the learning experience. In addition, there are abundant research opportunities available, with a strong emphasis on both clinical and basic science projects.6
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
Admission to the program is competitive; candidates who are U.S. citizens or hold valid J-1 or H-1 visas are eligible to apply. It is important for applicants to have adequate time to complete the fellowship prior to losing immigrant status, and the program has specific requirements for transcripts, exam scores, and letters of recommendation.7
Special Application Requirements
Applicants must submit official medical school transcripts, a curriculum vitae, and a personal statement. Additionally, a valid ECFMG certificate is required for international medical graduates, alongside proof of graduation from medical school. Interviews are primarily conducted virtually, considering a narrowed list of candidates based on comprehensive application reviews.3
Visa Support
The program supports candidates requiring visa sponsorship, specifically for J-1 and H-1B visas. It is crucial for potential fellows on these visas to complete their training within the visa duration, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.3
Wellness Support
Recognizing the demands of the training process, SUNY Upstate emphasizes wellness and fitness for duty for its fellows. An open-door policy allows fellows to seek support for any difficulties related to fatigue or mental well-being, affirming the program's commitment to fostering a healthy training environment.8
Time-Off Policy
The fellowship aligns with ACGME guidelines, allowing a total of 20 days off per academic year that encompasses sick leave, vacation, and interview time. This policy underscores the importance of work-life balance and personal well-being during the demanding years of fellowship training.9
Website
Director
Krishna B Ghimire, MDAssistant Professor of Medicine Appointed Since August 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$75,303First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
Syracuse, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Syracuse, NY
- Safety: Syracuse has a moderate crime rate. It's essential to be cautious, especially in certain areas of the city.
- Fun Activities: Syracuse offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby parks, visiting museums, and enjoying music festivals.
- Climate: Syracuse experiences cold, snowy winters and warm summers. Be prepared for significant snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Syracuse has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities.
- Education: Syracuse is home to Syracuse University, which adds a vibrant student life to the city.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Syracuse is lower compared to other major cities in the U.S., making it more affordable for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: New York City is about a 4-hour drive from Syracuse, while Buffalo is around 2.5 hours away. Both cities offer a wider range of entertainment and cultural activities.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse population, proximity to outdoor activities.
- Cons: Cold winters, moderate crime rate in some areas.
Interview Questions
