University of Chicago Program
Location:
Chicago, ILSpecialty:
Blood banking/transfusion medicineACGME Code:
3051621054Overview of the Blood Banking and Transfusion Medicine Fellowship
The Blood Banking and Transfusion Medicine Fellowship at the University of Chicago is a one-year ACGME-accredited program that offers a comprehensive blend of clinical and laboratory experiences. The fellowship is situated within a state-of-the-art medical facility that integrates cutting-edge technology in the heart of Chicago. This program specializes particularly in laboratory coagulation training, making it a unique offering in the domain of pathology.
1The UCM Blood Bank is a high-volume operation, issuing more than 55,000 blood components annually. It supports a variety of programs including solid organ and stem cell transplantation, pediatric care, and trauma surgery. The comprehensive breadth of clinical experiences available to fellows also includes pediatric peripheral blood stem cell collection, coagulation management, and histocompatibility testing.
1Clinical Experience and Rotations
During the fellowship, trainees will engage in multiple clinical experiences. This includes immunohematology, transfusion service management, consulting on transfusion reactions, and management of blood donor recruitment. Furthermore, fellows gain practical skills in therapeutic apheresis and gain exposure to the UCM Coagulation Laboratory, which performs both routine and esoteric testing for bleeding disorders.
1Additionally, there are dedicated rotations at an immunohematology reference laboratory, providing fellows with ample opportunities for hands-on learning and test interpretation.
1Research and Teaching Opportunities
The fellowship offers numerous opportunities for research and teaching, allowing fellows to engage in scholarly activities that contribute to advancements in blood banking and transfusion medicine. Completion of this program qualifies graduates to sit for the Transfusion Medicine boards, an important step for those pursuing a career in this specialized area.
1Eligibility and Application Process
The fellowship is open to physicians who possess current licensure and have training in either clinical pathology (CP), anatomic pathology/clinical pathology (AP/CP), or other relevant postgraduate medical training. An Illinois medical license is required.
1Applicants must submit an application form alongside detailed materials as specified in the application guidelines. The fellowship is particularly competitive, attracting candidates from both domestic and international backgrounds, including graduates of osteopathic (DO) and international medical schools (IMG).
1Visa Sponsorship
The University of Chicago program provides visa support for international applicants. They can sponsor both J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating the process for international medical graduates who seek to pursue their training in the United States.
1Program Competitiveness and Selection Criteria
This fellowship attracts a high level of competition, partly due to the esteemed nature of the University of Chicago medical programs and the innovative training environment it offers. Candidates aiming for this fellowship should ensure they meet all application requirements, including successful completion of the USMLE examinations, with particular emphasis on obtaining necessary ECFMG certification for international graduates.
1Unique Aspects of the Program
One distinguishing feature of the Blood Banking and Transfusion Medicine Fellowship at the University of Chicago is its focus on laboratory coagulation training, which is not commonly emphasized in other fellowships. This is particularly important given the evolving landscape of transfusion medicine and the increasing complexity of patient care scenarios in this area.
1Website
Director
Geoffrey D Wool, MD, PhDFellowship Program Director. Medical Director, Section of Transfusion, Hemostasis, and Apheresis Medicine (THAM) Appointed Since January 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,898First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Chicago, IL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Chicago, IL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Chicago has areas with higher crime rates, but many neighborhoods are safe. It's important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
- Fun Activities: Chicago offers a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, theaters, music venues, and a variety of dining options. There are also beautiful parks and Lake Michigan for outdoor activities.
- Climate: Chicago has cold winters with snow and hot, humid summers. Spring and fall are pleasant seasons.
- Races and Population: Chicago is a diverse city with a mix of ethnicities and cultures, making it a multicultural hub.
- Education: Chicago has several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continuous learning.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Chicago is relatively high compared to other cities, especially in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Milwaukee, WI (1.5 hours drive) and Indianapolis, IN (3 hours drive).
- Pros: Rich cultural scene, diverse population, great food options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, areas with higher crime rates, and extreme weather conditions.
Interview Questions
