Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Head and Neck Pathology Program

Overview of the Program

The Head and Neck Pathology Fellowship offered by the Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium is a highly immersive fellowship focused on both general surgical pathology and head and neck pathology. This program is designed to cultivate specialists who excel in diagnosing a diverse array of head and neck conditions while gaining substantial clinical experience and research opportunities.

Curriculum

The fellowship may include up to six months of general surgical pathology, allowing fellows to gain comprehensive insights into various pathology practices. Alternatively, fellows may choose a dedicated head and neck pathology focus. The program includes significant hands-on practice, where fellows participate actively in diagnosing and pre-dictating their cases, fostering independence and confidence.

Fellows will engage deeply in the clinical setting, handling a high volume of specimens that range from commonly encountered conditions to rare malignancies. Major components of the curriculum include:

Head and Neck Pathology Training

Fellows work closely with attending pathologists to review and sign out all head and neck consults. Responsibilities include:

• Sign-out every third large in-house head and neck tumor resection case.
• Handle all head and neck consult cases.
• Participate in frozen section procedures for intraoperative consultations.
• Engage in multidisciplinary tumor boards and discussion sessions with Otolaryngology and Oncology clinicians.
• Provide education to residents and medical students in gross prosection and safety practices.

Cytology Rotation

A one-week rotation focused on fine needle aspiration biopsies from the head and neck allows additional networking and skill development in cytological techniques.

Facilities

Training takes place in the advanced facilities of the Washington University School of Medicine, specifically within the BJC Institute of Health. This large, 680,000-square-foot building is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, enhancing the learning and research opportunities for fellows.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are actively encouraged to participate in clinical research projects during their training, with dedicated time allocated each week for this purpose. They will collaborate with faculty members to explore topics relevant to head and neck pathology, contributing to the academic growth of the division.

Requirements

To be eligible for the Head and Neck Pathology Fellowship, applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in anatomic pathology. Fellows must be board-certified or board-eligible in anatomic pathology and be legally authorized to work in the United States. The program is competitive and generally attracts a wide pool of candidates.

Visa Support

The program is open to international medical graduates (IMGs) and sponsors J-1 visas, which facilitate the training of international fellows at the institution. This provision underscores the program's commitment to fostering a diverse training environment.

Application Process

Applicants must submit an online application, providing necessary documents including a CV, personal statement, photograph, and USMLE scores (step 3 is optional). The application portal also collects contact information for three individuals who will be asked to provide letters of recommendation. The deadline for applications typically aligns with the academic calendar, aiming for candidates who are motivated and exhibit a solid background in pathology.

Competitiveness

The fellowship is highly competitive, attracting numerous applicants with strong backgrounds in pathology. Ideal candidates demonstrate a clear commitment to furthering their education and clinical skills in head and neck pathology.