University of Tennessee Program

Located in Memphis, the University of Tennessee Hematology and Oncology Fellowship Program is designed to provide fellows with comprehensive training in hematology and oncology while emphasizing personalized, cutting-edge cancer care. The program is particularly beneficial for those seeking a diverse and supportive educational environment.

Program Overview

The mission of the program emphasizes improving health outcomes in the Mid-South region through compassion, partnership, education, and research. Prospective fellows can expect a robust training experience that encourages their growth as clinicians or clinician-scientists in hematology and oncology, supported by collaborations with prominent institutions such as St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum spans three years and is structured with an 18-month rotating schedule, encompassing all major topics critical to the fields of hematology and oncology. Fellows engage in various educational experiences, and each rotation is complemented by a written curriculum designed to ensure fellows are well-prepared for in-service and board examinations.

In the first year, fellows concentrate on foundations in hematology and oncology, inclusive of essential rotations such as Radiation Oncology and Hematopathology, while also dedicating time to research. The second year expands on these foundations with advanced experiences in blood banking and specialized outpatient settings.

Notably, the third year includes advanced rotations such as Palliative Care and elective opportunities in unique areas like bone marrow transplant, reinforcing fellows' ability to tailor their education to their career goals.

Educational Experiences

Fellows will benefit from a comprehensive educational experience including morning conferences, journal clubs, and case review sessions that foster critical thinking and collaborative learning. Weekly foundational conferences and a journal club provide fellows with a well-rounded grasp of both current and emerging topics in oncology and hematology.

Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on research, allowing extensive protected research time—up to 18 months throughout the fellowship. Fellows are encouraged to engage in meaningful lab or clinical research projects, supported by a network of basic scientists from the UT Cancer Program.

Fellow Life and Community

The fellowship promotes a collegial and friendly atmosphere where fellows feel supported in their personal and professional growth. Regular activities, networking opportunities, and mentorship provided in a collaborative environment enhance the learning experience while allowing fellows to participate actively in community service initiatives.

Training Facilities and Clinical Exposure

The fellowship is affiliated with several training facilities that allow fellows to gain hand-on experience in a variety of clinical settings. These include the Memphis VA Medical Center, which offers a full spectrum of services for veterans, and Regional One Health, a leading trauma center in the region.

Additionally, fellows operate in renowned hospitals, including Baptist Memorial Hospital and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, ensuring they are exposed to a wide array of complex cases. Each facility actively participates in a multidisciplinary team approach, enriching fellows' learning opportunities.

Salary, Benefits, and Leave

Fellows receive a competitive salary along with access to benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a dedicated educational stipend intended for conference attendance. A structured leave policy ensures that fellows can maintain personal well-being while pursuing their training.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The fellowship offers 13 positions and accepts applications through ERAS, with a focus on candidates who graduated from an ACGME-accredited internal medicine residency program. International Medical Graduates are also encouraged to apply but must have an ECFMG certificate and can only be considered for a J1 visa; H visas are not supported.

Due to the large volume of applications, the program is highly competitive. Successful candidates demonstrate strong clinical skills, research experience, and a passion for hematology and oncology.

Visa Support

The program provides sponsorship for the J1 visa exclusively for international medical graduates. Prospective fellows requiring visas should ensure they have a valid ECFMG certificate before applying, as this is a crucial eligibility requirement for interview consideration.

Conclusion

The University of Tennessee Hematology and Oncology Fellowship Program in Memphis offers a robust platform for aspiring hematologists and oncologists, characterized by progressive training, extensive clinical exposure, and a supportive academic community. With its focus on personalized patient care and commitment to research, fellows are primed to become leaders in their field.