University of Rochester Program

The University of Rochester provides a comprehensive ACGME-accredited Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program. This three-year fellowship is designed to train pediatricians to become proficient clinicians, educators, and researchers in their field. The fellows are guided by an accomplished faculty known for their expertise in clinical care and substantial contributions to research.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The fellowship consists of clinical rotations and research opportunities focused on pediatric hematology and oncology. Clinical exposure includes managing a wide array of conditions, including brain tumors, sickle cell disorders, and bone marrow transplants. The program serves a catchment area of over 1.5 million residents in the Greater Rochester Area and beyond, providing comprehensive care to a diverse patient population. This demographic diversity enriches the fellows' training experiences as they learn to address healthcare disparities in underrepresented communities, including Amish, Mennonite, and refugee populations from various regions including Latin America and Africa 1.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

Fellows participate in various clinical rotations each year, increasing their responsibilities and gaining practical experience alongside seasoned faculty. By their third year, fellows engage in a “junior attending” rotation, allowing them to function more independently while applying their clinical knowledge in real-time patient management scenarios. Rotations also include collaborative efforts with various specialties to ensure comprehensive treatment for complex cases, particularly in areas like surgical interventions and pediatric palliative care 1.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship emphasizes the importance of research, enabling fellows to engage in projects spanning basic science, translational research, and clinical trials. The Clinical and Translational Science Institute at the University of Rochester provides additional support for fellows pursuing academic research interests, with resources to assist in securing funding and presenting findings at national conferences 1.

Mentorship and Professional Development

A robust mentorship program is a cornerstone of the fellowship. The department chair and vice chair hold regular roundtable discussions with fellows to provide personalized mentorship and guidance on research endeavors. The fellowship is committed to fostering career development, preparing its graduates for roles as leaders in academia, clinical practice, and research 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at the University of Rochester stands out for its hands-on learning and dedication to quality improvement and safety in clinical education. The program is one of eight recognized nationally by the ACGME for its commitment to transforming educational practices and improving healthcare quality 1.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Training involves extensive collaboration across various disciplines, which is critical given the nature of pediatric hematology and oncology care. This collaboration ensures fellows not only become adept at managing medical conditions but also are well-versed in the biopsychosocial aspects of care, making them comprehensive practitioners who can address the holistic needs of their patients 1.

Compensation and Benefits

Fellows receive a competitive salary reflecting the years of training, starting with a stipend set for PGY1 fellows at $68,417 and climbing to $78,126 by the third year. In addition to salaries, comprehensive benefits are provided, including health insurance, vacation, and support for educational endeavors 1.

Visa Support and Application Competitiveness

The program is known to be friendly towards international medical graduates (IMGs) and offers visa support for J-1 and H-1B visas, thus enhancing the accessibility of the fellowship to a broader range of applicants. As for competitiveness, candidates need to meet certain application requirements, including having completed an ACGME-accredited residency in pediatrics. There may be specific guidelines regarding application deadlines and supporting documents, including letters of recommendation and board scores 1.

Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Rochester’s program actively promotes diversity and inclusion within its fellowship training. The institution values individuals from various backgrounds, actively working on initiatives to create a supportive environment. Programs facilitate networking and mentoring opportunities to foster a diverse workforce in healthcare, which is crucial for addressing the needs of the varying populations served by the fellows 1.

Living and Training in Rochester

Rochester is recognized for its affordable housing and quality of life, making it an ideal place for fellows to live while undergoing training. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes festivals, museums, and recreational activities that add to the overall experience of as a fellow 1.