University of Florida Program

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program at the University of Florida is a comprehensive training program designed to equip physicians with the unique skills necessary for a successful career in pediatric hematology and oncology. Established in 1986, the program emphasizes a holistic approach to education, allowing fellows to choose paths suited for academic, clinical, or research-focused careers. Key elements of the program include its three-year duration, state-of-the-art facilities, and a robust curriculum that prepares fellows for board certification.

Mission and Objectives

The program aims to prepare fellows not only to excel in patient care but also to engage effectively in research, advocacy, and medical education. A notable goal is to maintain an 80% first-time pass rate for board certifications among graduates. The program also focuses on fostering leadership skills, understanding global health issues, and promoting continued educational development in a supportive environment 1.

Clinical Training

Fellows primarily engage in clinical activities during the first 12 to 14 months, wherein they rotate through various specializations, including:

• Pediatric hematology
• Pediatric oncology
• Stem cell transplantation
• Pediatric palliative care

This extensive clinical exposure allows fellows to gain hands-on experience with a diverse array of pediatric conditions, including sickle cell disease, leukemia, and solid tumors, among others 1.

Throughout this time, fellows participate in well-established continuity clinics across several areas, ensuring that they not only treat patients in an inpatient setting but also maintain ongoing relationships with outpatient care 1.

Research Component

The program emphasizes research as a critical component of training. The latter two years of fellowship are predominantly dedicated to independent research projects that can be laboratory-based or clinical 1. Fellows are required to develop a formal research project overseen by a Scholarship Oversight Committee. This includes generating hypotheses, assembling data, and defending conclusions through both oral and written formats 1.

Research training includes participation in a Clinical Research Center's short course, engaging with topics like study design, regulatory considerations, and ethical practices in research 1.

Educational Opportunities

There are numerous opportunities for fellows to participate in conferences, rounds, and lectures that enrich their education:

• Weekly educational meetings on core Pediatric Hematology-Oncology topics and current research
• Biweekly tumor boards reviewing clinical cases
• Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) conferences
• Multi-disciplinary meetings integrating various specialties

These sessions are instrumental in preparing fellows for specialty boards and facilitating collaborative discussions on patient care 1.

Application Process

The fellowship program participates in the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Candidates are required to submit various documents, including:

• Medical School Transcript
• Personal Statement
• Three letters of reference

Importantly, candidates must have completed a US Residency Program to qualify. International Medical Graduates are welcome to apply; however, the program will only sponsor J-1 Visas 1. Interviews are structured to provide insight into the fellowship and the University of Florida's facilities 1.

Competitiveness

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program is recognized as competitive, valuing a diverse pool of applicants, including DOs and International Medical Graduates. The selection process prioritizes candidates with a strong track record in pediatrics and related disciplines 1.

Living in Gainesville

The fellowship is positioned in Gainesville, Florida—a vibrant university community characterized by stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural scene. The city provides numerous outdoor recreational activities, alongside cultural institutions such as museums and performing arts venues. The cost of living in Gainesville is relatively low, and the area is known for its excellent educational institutions 1.

Fellows benefit from numerous perks, including access to GatorPerks, which provides various discounts to UF faculty and staff 1.

Support and Resources

The University of Florida is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to fellows, including mentorship from experienced faculty, professional development allowances, and access to a range of healthcare resources 1.

The program also maintains strict compliance with duty hour requirements as mandated by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), ensuring a balanced work-life structure for its Fellows 1.