University of Tennessee College of Medicine Program

The Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) aims to train surgical oncologists who possess both high-level technical skills and a commitment to advancing knowledge in cancer patient care. The program encompasses a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster independent cancer practitioners and equip them with the scientific foundations necessary for surgical oncology.

The fellowship lasts for two years, during which fellows will spend approximately 12-18 months engaged in clinical rotations that ensure adherence to Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) norms. These rotations cover various oncology subfields including breast, melanoma, sarcoma, colorectal, gastrointestinal, and endocrine oncology. Planned rotations also extend to thoracic oncology, gynecologic oncology, and radiation oncology, thereby providing a broad and rich clinical experience.

Fellows are guaranteed exposure to a large volume of clinical activity given the geographical positioning of Memphis, which serves as a regional provider of cancer care to several states. This provides fellows the opportunity to engage with a wide variety of oncology cases, a critical factor in their training.

Moreover, there is a dedicated half-year research block during the second year, where fellows are encouraged to engage in clinical, translational, and basic science research. Active participation in research acclimatizes fellows to the rigors of scientific inquiry necessary for a successful career in surgical oncology. The research curriculum is designed not only for publication but to instill a deep understanding of research design and analysis.

Conferences and Educational Experience

The fellowship offers an array of educational opportunities including weekly Grand Rounds and monthly journal clubs, where fellows engage in discussions around new articles and interesting clinical cases encountered in practice. Furthermore, attendance at Multidisciplinary Tumor Conferences, held multiple times weekly, is mandatory, allowing for collaborative decision-making in complex cases.

Additionally, fellows participate in regular Morbidity and Mortality (M & M) Conferences where significant morbidity or mortality cases are reviewed, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Application and Eligibility Requirements

Positions for the Surgical Oncology Fellowship are offered through the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP). Applicants must have completed General Surgery Board certification or be board-eligible, and a complete application must include a personal statement, medical school transcripts, passing USMLE or COMLEX scores, and letters of recommendation including the program director.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) need to hold a valid ECFMG certificate and the program can only sponsor J-1 visas; applications from candidates requiring H-1 visas will not be entertained. This aspect underscores the program's commitment to welcoming diverse candidates while adhering to regulatory standards.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The UTHSC program emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the University and Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, which enhances training opportunities and clinical experiences. This partnership allows fellows to practice in several reputable institutions, including Regional One Health, a Level-1 trauma center, and Baptist Memorial Hospital, which provides a robust setting for surgical oncology training.

Fellow Life and Support

Fellows at UTHSC are entitled to moonlighting opportunities, though these are regulated to ensure they do not interfere with primary fellowship responsibilities. These opportunities must be within the Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare system, maintaining alignment with educational mandates.