University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Program

This ACGME-accredited Hematopathology Fellowship program at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics offers an intensive one-year training designed to provide comprehensive subspecialty education in hematopathology. The well-established program is affiliated with a major university medical school, ensuring that fellows engage with a variety of complex cases within a robust learning environment 1.

The program is located within UW Health, which is recognized nationally as a leading regional health system. With a large bone marrow transplantation and hematology program, as well as a major clinical cancer center, fellows benefit from a diverse range of experiences that develop a strong foundation in hematopathology. Annually, the laboratory evaluates approximately 1,200 bone marrows and 350 lymph nodes, alongside consulting on around 200 cases, providing fellows ample exposure to high-volume and complex pathologies 1.

Curriculum and Training

Fellows engage in comprehensive training that covers several pivotal aspects of hematopathology, including:

• Morphologic evaluation of lymphoid tissues and bone marrow aspirations/biopsies.
• Cell surface antigen analysis of lymphomas and leukemias via flow cytometry and immunohistochemical techniques.
• Interpretation of molecular diagnostic data and cytogenetics, including FISH.
• Assessment of coagulation medicine.

Additionally, each fellow participates in a research project, enhancing their practical and analytical skills 1.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship promotes a supportive research environment which encourages fellows to delve into translational and clinical research, as well as quality improvement projects. Emphasis is placed on developing skills necessary for successful careers in both academic and private practice settings 1.

Program Aims and Mission

The mission of the Hematopathology Fellowship Program is to create a high-caliber training experience for fellows to develop into excellent diagnostic pathologists and leaders in their specialties. Key aims include:

• Recruiting top-tier pathology residents into the fellowship.
• Offering excellence in education and supervision enabling fellows to reach practice independence and fulfill hematopathology fellowship milestones defined by the ACGME.
• Providing resources and a supportive environment for research participation as well as quality improvement initiatives.
• Fostering professional development, educational skills, and critical thinking.

Program Structure and Openings

The fellowship is set to participate in the hematopathology fellowship match system through NRMP. For the 2026-27 fellowship year, the timeline is as follows:

• October 1, 2024: Application opens.
• January 6, 2025: Interview process begins.
• February 5, 2025: Match registration opens.
• March 12, 2025: Ranking opens.
• April 16, 2025: Rank order list certification deadline.
• April 30, 2025: Match day.
• July 1, 2026: Start of fellowship.

Applicants must be board-eligible or certified in Anatomic Pathology, Clinical Pathology, or both 1.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The fellowship program supports J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates seeking to participate in this training. The program is positioned to be highly competitive, attracting qualified candidates including those from international and osteopathic backgrounds, as well as U.S. graduates who have completed appropriate residency training 1.

Application Requirements

Applications for the fellowship will be accepted starting on October 1, 2024. Required materials include:

• A completed CAP standardized application for pathology fellowships.
• Personal statement.
• Current CV.
• Three letters of recommendation.

The program places importance on candidates being board-eligible or certified in Anatomic Pathology, Clinical Pathology, or both, making it essential for applicants to have demonstrated strong academic credentials 1.

Stipend and Financial Support

Fellows receive stipends commensurate with their level of post-graduate training along with an annual professional funds allowance of $850 and funding of $1,500 allocated for travel to attend conferences or national meetings 1.