University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville Program

The University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville offers a three-year, ACGME-accredited fellowship in pediatric hematology-oncology. This program is designed for individuals who aspire to maximize their potential both as clinicians and researchers. Trainees will gain extensive exposure to patient care in a well-supported environment with access to a variety of resources that enhance their learning and research efforts.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship program is structured to provide a balance between clinical duties and research activities. The first year primarily focuses on clinical training, approximately 80% of which is dedicated to direct patient care across various inpatient and outpatient settings. In this year, fellows will also have the opportunity to engage in focused learning in hematology lab testing and hematopathology at notable institutions including Nemours Children's Health, Wolfson Children’s Hospital, and the Mayo Clinic Florida 1.

As fellows advance, the program shifts focus towards increasing research responsibilities. The second year allows for enhanced protected research time as fellows start engaging in the regulatory aspects of research projects alongside data collection. The third year prioritizes research completion, culminating in a focus on preparing for academic dissemination of findings through journals and national conferences. Throughout the program, fellows will have exposure to comprehensive clinical programs that handle a broad spectrum of hematology and oncology cases.

Clinical Rotations

During the fellowship, trainees will engage with several prominent clinical programs:

• Blood and Marrow Transplant Program: A collaborative effort with the Mayo Clinic, this program is recognized for its longstanding accreditation by FACT, performing over 1,000 transplants for conditions such as leukemia and sickle cell disease.
• CAR T-cell Program: As one of the newest therapeutic offerings, this program has been pivotal in providing advanced treatment options for acute lymphoblastic leukemia without requiring patients to travel far.
• Comprehensive Sickle Cell Program: Catering to over 350 pediatric patients, this program integrates medical treatment with psychological and social support.
• Oncology Survivorship Program: Dedicated to post-therapy care, addressing the holistic needs of patients.

This program fosters an enriching educational environment, underpinned by a philosophy of mentorship and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research as a cornerstone of training. Fellows are considered integral members of the research team, gaining hands-on experience in designing and conducting research, with guidance from faculty mentors 5. Fellows are expected to submit manuscripts and present findings at regional and national meetings, providing valuable exposure to the academic research landscape.

Application Requirements

Candidates interested in the fellowship must meet certain eligibility criteria:

• Applicants must be either board certified or board eligible by the American Board of Pediatrics.
• Prior to the start of the fellowship, candidates are required to have either a valid unrestricted Florida medical license or a Training License from the Florida Board of Medicine.
• A complete application should be submitted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including three letters of reference, one from the current program director.

Competitiveness and Applicant Background

The fellowship program is competitive, accepting one fellow each year. The selection committee emphasizes academic credentials, professionalism, and alignment of career plans with the program's goals during the evaluation process. This includes assessment of the candidates' performance in medical school, residency training, and letters of recommendation 6.

Visa Sponsorship

The University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville provides visa support for candidates who require it. Common visa types sponsored include J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing for international participation in the fellowship. This opens the opportunity for diverse applicants to contribute to and benefit from the training environment.

Benefits and Resources

The benefits offered to fellows include a competitive stipend, health insurance, access to educational resources, and professional development opportunities. Comprehensive support programs such as counseling services, stipends for educational materials, and meal funding during clinical duties are integral to supporting fellows during their training 3. Additionally, the program encourages research participation through grants and provides the necessary facilities for conducting studies.

With a commitment to fostering both clinical expertise and research proficiency, the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Fellowship at the University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville is positioned to develop the next generation of leaders in pediatric medicine.