University of Pennsylvania Health System Surgical Pathology Program
Specialty:
Selective pathologyACGME Code:
3014131029The Surgical Pathology Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania Health System offers a comprehensive advanced training for pathologists interested in enhancing their expertise in surgical pathology. This program is formally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and operates within a structured model to promote professional development and specialization.
Fellowship Overview
The fellowship consists of a one-year term with seven positions available annually. Fellows engage in a subspecialty model of surgical pathology practice at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, which processes approximately 50,000 surgical specimens each year. The training is designed to prepare fellows for independent practice upon completion, emphasizing diagnostic accuracy, clinical correlation, and teaching responsibilities.
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum includes diverse rotations through various subspecialties within surgical pathology. Initially, fellows undertake rotations in all subspecialties for six months. Subsequently, they tailor their experience by selecting 1-3 subspecialties for concentrated training during the final three to six months. Available subspecialties include gastrointestinal (GI), genitourinary (GU), gynecological (Gyn), head and neck (ENT/Endocrine), pulmonary, breast, soft tissue, dermatopathology, and cardiac pathology. Throughout the year, fellows participate in on-call duty, undertaking frozen section diagnoses that integrate immediate clinical needs into the pathology workflow.
Research Opportunities
Fellows are encouraged to contribute to research efforts within the department. Candidates who exhibit outstanding diagnostic skills and commit to educational initiatives may compete for the H. T. Enterline Fellowship Award, honoring excellence in academic contributions. Research can range from clinical and translational studies to quality improvement projects within the pathology practice.
Requirements and Application Process
To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must have successfully completed an accredited residency in pathology and meet the criteria for certification in Anatomic Pathology or a combined Anatomic and Clinical Pathology program according to standards set by the American Board of Pathology. Applicants need to submit a fellowship application, curriculum vitae, personal statement, USMLE score report, ECFMG certificate (for international graduates), medical school diploma, and three letters of recommendation. The application window typically opens annually in June, with a preference for early submission, as positions are filled on a rolling basis until all are filled.
Visa Sponsorship
The program sponsors both J-1 and H-1B visas for qualified international applicants, enabling a diverse cohort to pursue advanced training.1
Competitiveness and Selection Process
The fellowship is considered highly competitive, attracting a broad range of candidates, including U.S. graduates, international medical graduates (IMGs), and graduates from osteopathic (DO) schools. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their commitment to pathology, clinical experience, and educational leadership throughout the application process.1
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Director
Rashmi Tondon, MDDirector, Associate Professor of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Appointed Since August 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
55 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
14 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$70,033First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
3.9XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.