The Pathologist Pipeline: Implications of Changes for Programs and Post-Sophomore Fellowships-Program Directors'...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pathology Workforce Analysis

Background:

• Physician shortages are projected in the US, with an anticipated deficit in pathology due to an aging workforce.
• The Association of Pathology Chairs (APC) formed a subcommittee to analyze the pathology workforce's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT).

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore strategies for addressing the projected pathology workforce shortage.
• To investigate the role of post-sophomore fellowships in attracting and training future pathologists.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to understand post-sophomore fellowship training better.
• A literature review on post-sophomore fellowship programs was conducted.
• A second survey of program directors served as an opinion poll on residency training challenges.

Main Results:

• Post-sophomore fellowship programs vary in curriculum, with some focusing on research, and often mirror a first-year residency experience.
• These fellowships successfully attract medical students to pathology, often leading them to academic and research roles.
• Program directors believe residents require additional training to improve outcomes for future pathologists.

Conclusions:

• Post-sophomore fellowships are a key opportunity to recruit medical students into pathology.
• Enhancing fellowship training and addressing residency challenges are crucial for bolstering the future pathology workforce.