University of Hawaii Program

University of Hawaii Pathology Residency Program Overview

The University of Hawaii Pathology Residency Program offers a comprehensive educational format focusing on clinicopathologic correlation through rigorous training in anatomic and clinical pathology (AP and CP). Recognized for providing a well-rounded residency experience, this program is uniquely positioned to expose residents to a diverse spectrum of cases due to Hawaii's multiethnic population and geographical location in the Pacific. The program's goal is to cultivate highly skilled pathologists who are prepared to function effectively in community and academic settings, handling the complexities of modern pathology.

Curriculum and Training Structure

The residency program encompasses a four-year curriculum with structured rotations designed to provide exposure to various subspecialties.

General AP/CP Curriculum

• Anatomic Pathology: 19 months total with rotations including:
• 12 months in General Anatomic Pathology
• 4 months in Cytopathology
• 2 months in Pediatric Pathology
• 1 month in Forensic Pathology
• Clinical Pathology: 18 months total with rotations including:
• 3 months in Chemistry
• 4 months in Microbiology
• 4 months in Hematology
• 4 months in Blood Bank
• 1 month each in Molecular Pathology, Laboratory Management, Cytogenetics, and Toxicology

Residents also participate in elective rotations in their senior years and are required to engage in research projects culminating in presentations at national pathology meetings.

Training Sites

Residents gain practical experience at several major training sites, including:

• The Queen’s Medical Center: The largest hospital in Hawaii and a major teaching hospital.
• Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children: A leading facility for women’s, infant, and children’s care.
• Kaiser Permanente Hawaii: Provides a community-oriented healthcare experience.
• Additional sites: Include the Hawaii Blood Bank and the City & County of Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office.

Research Opportunities

Residents are expected to undertake at least one scholarly project during their training, with support from faculty mentors. These projects are encouraged to be presented at state and national level conferences and ideally published in scientific journals.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship for international graduates. Applicants with prior residency training or those who have graduated within a certain number of years prior to applying are encouraged to apply. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must have valid ECFMG certification and successful outcomes from both Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE examination to be considered.

Competitiveness and Applicant Selection

The residency program is considered highly competitive. However, it actively seeks to welcome motivated applicants from diverse backgrounds, including international medical graduates and those holding DO degrees. Candidates are selected based on a holistic review of their applications, including academic achievements, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and performance in relevant standardized examinations.

Conclusion

In summary, the University of Hawaii Pathology Residency Program prepares its residents with a robust, diverse, and balanced education in pathology, making use of Hawaii's cultural richness and unique clinical scenarios to train adaptable pathologists ready for contemporary challenges in the field.