University of Virginia Medical Center Program
Location:
Charlottesville, VASpecialty:
Blood banking/transfusion medicineACGME Code:
3055121074Overview of the Transfusion Medicine Fellowship
The Transfusion Medicine Fellowship at the University of Virginia Medical Center is an ACGME-accredited program designed for physicians seeking specialized training in blood banking and transfusion medicine (BBTM). This fellowship equips fellows with extensive clinical experience derived from the active consultative service, which supports an array of complex cases across a quaternary care health system. The experience encompasses interactions within adult and pediatric level 1 trauma centers, solid organ and stem cell transplants, and maternal-fetal medicine among other specialties.
1Clinical and Research Opportunities
Fellows in this program will have the opportunity to engage in numerous activities including hematopoietic stem cell collection and processing, clinical coagulation, tissue typing, flow cytometry, therapeutic apheresis, diagnostic molecular pathology, and informatics. This involvement not only fortifies the clinical foundation of the fellows but also encourages participation in quality assessment and improvement initiatives. Furthermore, fellows are given the chance to teach medical students, residents, and healthcare staff, fostering a comprehensive educational environment.
1Rotation Structure and Policy Development
During the fellowship, the fellows will participate in developing policies and procedures vital to the functioning of the blood bank and transfusion service. Additionally, they lead daily BBTM rounds which are attended by the attending physician, residents, charge technologist, and rotating trainees, thereby assuming leadership responsibilities that are crucial for professional development.
1Research Component
With a strong emphasis on research, fellows are encouraged to initiate and lead their own projects, which may extend beyond the traditional one-year fellowship period. This option not only enables fellows to gain experience in clinical research but also to contribute meaningful insights to the field of transfusion medicine.
1Application Process and Requirements
Application to the fellowship requires candidates to have completed a residency in pathology or another ACGME-accredited residency program. Candidates must also hold a license or be eligible for licensure to practice in Virginia, with foreign medical graduates required to have ECFMG certification at the time of application. The application package should include a Fellowship Application, current CV, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, the medical school transcript, and a USMLE transcript. Applications are accepted starting July 1st, two years prior to the desired start date, and positions remain open until filled.
1Competitive Selection Process
The Transfusion Medicine Fellowship is known for its competitive nature. Interested applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to the specialty and relevant clinical experience. The program is also structured in a manner that is friendly towards DO and IMG candidates, making it accessible to a diverse applicant pool.
1Visa Sponsorship and Support
The fellowship program at the University of Virginia Medical Center provides visa sponsorship to qualified international medical graduates. The program typically sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing foreign graduates to work and train within the fellowship.
1Fellowship Position Availability
The fellowship offers a single position and currently, there are ongoing updates regarding the number of available slots. As of August 6, 2024, there will be one open position for 2026.
1Stipend and Benefits
The stipend for fellows is determined based on the individual’s year of postgraduate training. Additional benefits may include access to medical resources, educational opportunities, and participation in departmental events and seminars.
1Mentorship and Faculty Interaction
A key element of the fellowship is the mentorship provided by a team of experienced faculty. The fellows have the opportunity to learn from leaders in the field of transfusion medicine, gaining insights not only into clinical practice but also into research and academic opportunities in BBTM.
1Website
- 1 .Transfusion Medicine Fellowship - Department of Pathology
- 2 .Clinical Chemistry Fellowship - Department of Pathology
- 3 .Cytopathology Fellowship - Department of Pathology
- 4 .Dermatopathology Fellowship - Department of Pathology
- 5 .Gynecologic and Breast Pathology Fellowship - Department of Pathology
- 6 .Hematopathology Fellowship - Department of Pathology
Director
James D Gorham, MD, PhDProfessor of Pathology; Chief, Division of Laboratory Medicine; Medical Director, Blood Bank and Transfusion Medicine Services at UVA Community Hospitals Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$71,870First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
3Location
Charlottesville, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville, VA, is a charming city located in central Virginia. Here's a breakdown of various aspects of living in Charlottesville:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Charlottesville generally has a moderate crime rate with a focus on property crimes. It is always recommended to be cautious in any city.
- Fun Activities: Charlottesville is known for its historical sites, vineyards, and outdoor activities like hiking in Shenandoah National Park. There are also cultural events, music festivals, and a thriving food scene.
- Climate: Charlottesville experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and mild winters. Fall is particularly beautiful with the changing colors of the leaves.
- Races and Population: Charlottesville has a diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities contributing to its vibrant community.
- Education: Charlottesville is home to the University of Virginia, which brings a strong academic and intellectual atmosphere to the city.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Charlottesville is slightly above the national average, mainly due to housing costs. However, compared to big cities, it is still relatively affordable.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Washington, D.C., is around 2 to 3 hours away by car, and Richmond, VA, is about an hour and a half away. Both cities offer more extensive cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities.
Interview Questions
