University of South Dakota Surgical Pathology Program
Location:
Sioux Falls, SDSpecialty:
Selective pathologyACGME Code:
3014666001The Surgical Pathology Fellowship program at the University of South Dakota offers an intensive and well-structured curriculum designed to prepare fellows for a successful career in surgical pathology. The primary aim of the program is to train pathologists who can deliver high-quality care to the residents of South Dakota and its surrounding regions. Additionally, the program is committed to advancing knowledge that positively impacts the quality of life for individuals in the state.
The Surgical Pathology Fellowship consists of a one-year accredited training curriculum focusing on surgical pathology. The program ensures ample personal attention from faculty, creating a supportive learning environment. Fellows will engage in 13 four-week rotation blocks that include Surgical Pathology, Frozen Section, Consults, and various subspecialties. This comprehensive training structure allows fellows to develop proficiency by actively participating in hands-on experiences from day one 1.
Training Sites
The primary training site for fellows is Sanford USD Medical Center, located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. As a tertiary care facility, Sanford Medical Center provides a rich clinical environment and access to diverse pathology cases that fellows can learn from during their rotations. This setting promotes a collaborative atmosphere where fellows can interact and learn alongside skilled professionals in the field 8.
Program Curriculum
The curriculum includes various rotation blocks: the Surgical Pathology Rotation allows fellows to regularly sign out routine surgical pathology cases, while the Frozen Section Rotation focuses on the management of frozen section cases and collaborative work with residents. The Consult Rotation enables fellows to handle consults sent to the Pathology department and deliver weekly didactic sessions to residents. In addition, fellows have the opportunity to engage in elective rotations in subspecialties such as Dermatopathology, Gastrointestinal Pathology, and others, tailoring their training according to individual interests and career goals 7.
Life in Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls is recognized for its vibrant community life, offering the advantages of a large city without the associated challenges of urban living. It boasts a reasonable cost of living and a safe environment, making it an attractive location for fellows to live and thrive while pursuing their medical careers. The city features over 80 public parks, numerous entertainment venues, and various educational institutions, ensuring a well-rounded lifestyle for residents 9.
Application Requirements
The Surgical Pathology Fellowship program has specific application criteria. Candidates must be board-certified or board-eligible in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology and should have completed an ACGME-accredited residency. Additionally, applicants need to successfully complete USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3, provide three letters of recommendation, and submit a personal statement reflecting their interest in surgical pathology. The program also accepts foreign medical graduates, provided they possess an ECFMG certificate and maintain acceptable visa status during their training. The application process is designed to ensure that all applicants meet the established standards to excel in this focused training program 4.5.
Benefits and Support
The University of South Dakota offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a competitive salary based on the year of fellowship training, health insurance options, and stipends for new fellows. The program is also committed to supporting the overall well-being of residents and fellows, with insurance benefits covering various aspects, including life, dental, and disability insurance. Additional support is extended through a visa policy that ensures international graduates receive the necessary assistance to secure appropriate visa status during their training 6.
Competitiveness and Environment
The Surgical Pathology Fellowship program is characterized as being competitive, attracting a diverse group of candidates, including international medical graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic (DO) graduates. The emphasis on comprehensive training with dedicated mentorship enhances the fellowship experience, making it an appealing choice for aspiring pathologists seeking to build strong careers in surgical pathology 4.
Website
Director
Ashwyna Sunassee, MDProgram Director Appointed Since January 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$73,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Sioux Falls, SD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Sioux Falls, SD
- Crime Rate and Safety: Sioux Falls has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the U.S., making it a safe place to live.
- Fun Activities: Sioux Falls offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and water activities on the Big Sioux River. The city also has cultural attractions like museums and theaters.
- Climate: Sioux Falls experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snow in the winter months.
- Races and Population: Sioux Falls has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, creating a welcoming and inclusive community.
- Education: The city has good public and private schools, as well as higher education institutions like the University of Sioux Falls and Augustana University.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Sioux Falls is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to reside.
- Neaby Cities: Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota. The nearest bigger cities are Minneapolis, MN, and Omaha, NE, which are both approximately a 3-hour drive away. Minneapolis offers a vibrant urban experience with cultural attractions, while Omaha is known for its zoo and museums.
- Pros: Low crime rate, affordable cost of living, diverse population, and plenty of recreational activities.
- Cons: Cold winters and distance from larger cities for more diverse entertainment options.
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