University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine Program

The Hematology/Oncology Fellowship program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Medicine is designed to provide an extensive and robust clinical training experience for physicians who aspire to become subspecialists in hematology and oncology. This three-year program is fully accredited and offers candidates the opportunity to gain board eligibility through the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) in both hematology and oncology.

The program places a strong emphasis on delivering high-quality care to patients with cancer and non-malignant blood disorders, utilizing a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses a diverse range of clinical experiences. The training primarily occurs at two leading teaching hospitals: University Health Truman Medical Center and Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City, the latter of which is noted for its comprehensive tertiary care services.

Training Facilities and Clinical Exposure

UMKC fellows benefit from a collaborative educational environment, working at regional health care facilities such as Children's Mercy Kansas City and the Community Blood Center of Greater Kansas City. University Health Truman Medical Center serves both as a primary inpatient service and consultation service in hematology/oncology, handling over 400 new cancer cases annually and providing extensive outpatient services.

Saint Luke's Hospital also plays a critical role in training fellows, offering a robust inpatient service and acting as a regional center for complex cases including allogeneic and autologous stem cell transplants. Furthermore, Children’s Mercy Kansas City offers a dedicated hematology/oncology unit with specialized care, including a Bone Marrow Transplant unit.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The structure of the fellowship is meticulously designed to cover a broad scope of diseases and therapeutic practices relevant to hematology and oncology over three years. The program's curriculum is outlined as follows:

Year 1

In the first year, fellows will undergo:

• Three months on the Hematology/Oncology Service at University Health Truman Medical Center
• Three months on the Hematology/Oncology Service at Saint Luke’s Hospital
• One month each in Radiation Oncology, Hematopathology, Blood Banking, Coagulation, Gynecologic Oncology, and Head and Neck Oncology
• Two half days per week in a Continuity Clinic rotation

Year 2

In the second year, the focus will be on:

• Three months on the Hematology/Oncology Service at both hospitals
• Two months in Bone Marrow Transplantation
• Two months of Electives
• One month of Supportive Care in Oncology
• One month of Chemotherapy, Pharmacology, and Administration
• Two half days per week in a Continuity Clinic and a dedicated Hemophilia Clinic

Year 3

In the third year, the program culminates with:

• Three months on the Hematology/Oncology Service at each hospital
• Four months dedicated to research
• Two months in Bone Marrow Transplantation
• Continued involvement in Continuity Clinics

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research, working closely with faculty members to examine various areas including bone marrow transplant immunology, cancer care in underserved communities, and end-of-life care strategies. This research component is integral to the training, providing fellows with the skills necessary for academic and clinical leadership.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Prospective fellows are selected based on their qualifications, irrespective of race, gender, or background. Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A complete application via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS)
• Letters of recommendation from the current program director and two faculty members
• A personal statement, ECFMG certification if applicable, USMLE score, and the most current CV

Final selections are determined by the Hematology/Oncology Selection Committee, which evaluates candidates based on academic performance, clinical competence, ethical standards, and enthusiasm. The program is competitive, welcoming applications from U.S. medical graduates, osteopathic graduates, and international medical graduates.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants, accommodating visa types that include J-1 and H-1B visas, ensuring that qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds can participate in this comprehensive fellowship.