SUNY Upstate Medical University/American Red Cross Blood Services Program

The SUNY Upstate Medical University Transfusion Medicine/Blood Banking Fellowship is a comprehensive one-year training program situated within the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY. This program is accredited by the ACGME and is designed to provide fellows with a rounded experience in various aspects of transfusion medicine.

The curriculum includes exposure to a wide range of crucial competencies in the field, such as:

• Blood banking
• Blood product collection and manufacturing
• Coagulation testing and management
• Therapeutic apheresis
• Extracorporeal photopheresis
• Hematopoietic stem cell collection via apheresis
• Hematopoietic stem cell processing and storage
• Umbilical cord blood banking
• HLA testing and interpretation
• Molecular pathology
• Laboratory management

Fellows will also engage with unique patient populations, including bone marrow transplant recipients, solid organ transplant recipients, oncology patients, and individuals with various hematologic disorders, ensuring a diverse clinical experience.

As part of the fellowship, the fellow functions as a junior attending physician, collaborating closely with two fellowship-trained faculty members along with other specialists such as ASHI-certified HLA faculty and seasoned pathologists.

This fellowship offers a dynamic educational atmosphere, emphasizing the development of both clinical and management skills. The fellow assists in training pathology residents and is also involved in teaching medical students and other healthcare professionals at SUNY Upstate, promoting a rich learning experience for all.1

Clinical Training Environment

The training is conducted at several prominent facilities, including the SUNY Upstate University Hospital, which serves as the region’s academic medical center and Level 1 trauma center. Additional exposure is provided through the Community Campus Hospital and Crouse Hospital, as well as rotations at the regional American Red Cross in Rochester, NY, located about 85 miles from Syracuse. This multifaceted training environment ensures that fellows acquire a robust skill set across various interdisciplinary contexts and settings.1

Professional Development

Throughout the fellowship, there is a strong emphasis placed on personal and professional development. The fellow will closely work with experienced faculty who are dedicated to fostering the fellow's growth into a competent physician, providing the opportunity to delve into various transfusion medicine specialties. With only one position available each year, this structure allows for focused mentoring and individual attention to the fellow's educational journey.1

Living in Syracuse

Syracuse presents an affordable cost of living, coupled with a variety of housing options suitable for different lifestyles. The city boasts a low traffic environment, which eases commuting, and offers extensive public transportation options. Furthermore, Syracuse's central location facilitates convenient travel, with an international airport, train station, and bus depot all nearby.1

Application Requirements

Candidates interested in the Transfusion Medicine Fellowship must be Board-eligible or Board-certified in Clinical Pathology or AP/CP and must have successfully completed USMLE Step III. The application process requires the submission of a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and three letters of reference.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship options for eligible candidates, making it accessible for international medical graduates seeking to further their training in the United States. Specific details about the types of visas supported may vary, and potential applicants should inquire directly for the most accurate information.

Competitiveness

The fellowship generally exhibits a competitive selection process, as only one fellow is accepted annually, creating an environment where many well-qualified candidates vie for the position. However, the program is also inclusive and considers applicants from various backgrounds, including DOs and IMGs, given their training and qualification meet the application requirements.1