Cytopathology Fellowship

This one year ACGME-accredited program is designed to provide comprehensive training in diagnostic cytopathology, particularly the immediate evaluation, triage and final diagnosis of fine needle aspirations (FNAs). The cytology laboratory evaluates approximately 25,000 gynecologic and 5,000 non-gynecologic specimens of which 2000 are FNAs per year. The fellow will become proficient in laboratory management, diagnostics; including the performance and interpretation of FNAs and new technologies; including the ThinPrep Imaging System, HPV-DNA testing, and medical informatics. The cytopathology section utilizes video streaming from remote locations for immediate evaluation of FNAs. This cutting edge experience provides fellows with comprehensive training in the new technologies benefiting cytopathology today. The department has a strong academic mission, and provides opportunities for cytology-based research, including molecular diagnostics. The fellow will participate in the education of residents and medical students on cytology rotations. The fellow is expected to complete a research project for publication. Upon completion, the fellow will be prepared to direct a university or community-based practice cytopathology laboratory.

Program Mission Statement: 

The UW Health fellowship program in cytopathology provides a comprehensive learning experience that prepares graduates to function as competent cytopathologists and capable leaders in academic or private cytopathology practice.  The structured learning environment supports the development of distinctive capabilities in cytopathology, including cytopreparation, gynecologic and non-gynecologic cytologic interpretation, ultrasound guided thyroid fine needle aspiration (FNA), rapid on­site evaluation, issuing preliminary impressions via telepathology, and the application of various ancillary studies.  In addition to these distinctive capabilities, fellows learn the nuances of managing a cytopathology laboratory using the “UW Health Way”.

Program Aims:   

1. To support the development of cytopathologists that provide compassionate patient care, while also fulfilling the ACGME milestones for cytopathology.
2. To impart UW Health’s culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
3. To provide advanced training in the use of telepathology and to promote telepathology as a resource for expanding the geographic reach of healthcare.
4. To contribute to research in cytopathology through participation in a research project.
5. To involve learners in quality improvement initiatives that support “remarkable healthcare”.
6. To provide a positive learning environment this is reinforced by the teaching of other learners.
7. To impart a management philosophy based on the principles of the “UW Health Way”.