University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson Program

The University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson offers a highly specialized Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship. This one-year fellowship program focuses on Mohs micrographic surgery and other dermatologic surgical procedures. Participating fellows will benefit from direct supervision by experienced faculty, including the Program Director, who provides ongoing feedback and mentorship throughout the training year.

Fellows will gain hands-on experience performing various surgical techniques including destruction techniques, excision, and Mohs micrographic surgery. The structure of the fellowship allows for a gradual transition to greater independence as fellows demonstrate competency in clinical and surgical skills during their training year 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to ensure a comprehensive experience in cutaneous surgery. Training occurs at several key facilities, including the Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System (SAVAHCS) and the University of Arizona Cancer Center – North Campus. Both sites provide extensive exposure to a high volume of patients, particularly those diagnosed with skin cancer. A key feature of SAVAHCS is its Mohs unit, completed in 2014, which houses a laboratory and dedicated reconstruction rooms for advanced surgical education 3.

At the Pima Canyon Outpatient Clinic, which became operational in June 2018, fellows have access to 17 exam and procedure rooms, offering a comprehensive array of services and educational activities, including a tech-friendly conference room dedicated to trainee learning 3.

The UA Cancer Center – North Campus is another pivotal site where fellows engage in weekly procedural and oncology clinics led by faculty members, enhancing their operative skills through diverse surgical experiences 3.

Application Process

Admission into the Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship requires applicants to have completed an ACGME-accredited dermatology residency program. This prerequisite ensures that incoming fellows are proficient in basic cutaneous surgical techniques, essential for the complex procedures performed during the fellowship 6.

Candidates are encouraged to apply through the San Francisco Match. The application timeline typically commences around June 1, leading to interviews from late summer through early fall, culminating in match results disclosed by mid-December. Remaining vacancies after the match process are announced shortly thereafter 6.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship provides a competitive salary, along with an extensive benefits package which includes health and dental insurance, professional liability insurance, and a generous allowance for education-related expenses. Fellows are entitled to 22 days of paid vacation and 10 paid holidays per year, in addition to educational leave for attendance at national meetings 7.

Fellows are also supported by resources including a dedicated residents' area for study, comprehensive medical library access, and opportunities to participate in advanced life support courses. Additional benefits include free parking and an innovative work environment that emphasizes trainee development 7.

Competitiveness and Visa Support

This fellowship program is considered highly competitive due to the rigorous training, expert faculty, and comprehensive facilities. It welcomes applications from international medical graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic physicians (DOs), promoting a diverse cohort of fellows. Visa sponsorship is available for J-1 and H-1B visa types, offering support for international candidates seeking to join this esteemed fellowship program 5.