Pathology & Laboratory Medicine

Cytopathology Fellowship

DESCRIPTION

This program is a one-year clinically oriented program devoted to all areas of cytopathology. Extensive training and experience in gynecologic, nongynecologic, and fine needle aspiration biopsy cytology are provided, with the pathology service performing most of the aspirates. The fellow rotates through both the University and VA hospitals which are connected by a walkway. The total number of cytology specimens accessioned annually is about 24,000 with about 13% abnormal gynecologic specimens, and over 1,700 FNAs. Time is also devoted to laboratory management and quality assurance skills, teaching, and a research project in cytopathology. Training in immunocytochemistry and other ancillary techniques is included. Accredited by ACGME for 2 positions.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

The fellowship lasts 12 months and will generally start July 1. The majority of months will be spent doing clinical cytopathology including special techniques. There will be three months of research/elective and one month for vacation and professional meeting leave.

RESPONSIBILITIES

In the first months the fellow will be responsible for learning technical procedures (including fine needle aspiration biopsy technique) and reviewing cytology diagnostic concepts. The fellow will then take increasing responsibility for sign-out of cytologic specimens as abilities and regulations permit. Generally this will include 2-3 days a week of preliminary review/sign-out at the University and occasional responsibilities at the VA. The fellow will also manage the fine needle aspiration service under direct supervision of the faculty. The fellow will help with clinical teaching of other house staff including pathology residents and will be responsible for actively participating in the following conferences: monthly Cytology Conference, Tumor Board, Slide Conference, Advances in Diagnostic Pathology Course, and occasional subspecialty conferences. The fellow will have some quality assurance responsibilities and will be given occasional laboratory management tasks.

ELECTIVES AND RESEARCH

The fellow is expected to participate in at least one research project related to cytopathology culminating in a paper and/or a presentation at a scientific meeting. Electives can be spent in research and/or another related laboratory in pathology.

FACULTY

Dana Richards MD (Director of Cytopathology and Cytopathology Fellowship), Kimberly J. Absher MD, Yolanda M Brill MD , Rouzan Karabakhtsian MD, Matthew Purdom MD, Dava West MD

REQUIREMENTS

Applicants who are Board-eligible in AP or AP/CP at the start of the fellowship are preferred. Candidates should be eligible for a medical license in the state of Kentucky.

STIPENDS & BENEFITS: Commensurate with year of postgraduate training in pathology.

APPLICATION

Send a CAP Standardized Fellowship Application (including personal statement, dean's letter with transcript, 3 letters of recommendation, USMLE scores and ECFMG certificate if IMG) and letters of inquiry, including CV, should be sent to: Dana Richards, MD, Director, Cytopathology Fellowship, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky Medical Center, 800 Rose Street Ste MS117, Lexington, KY 40536-0298.  Phone: (859) 323-6183