Fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology

This is a two-year clinical fellowship training program with MOH funding for Canadian medical graduates. International medical graduates may apply, but they must have a designated funding source, typically provided by their country of origin. There is an optional third year for research or focused training in robotic surgery.

As of July 1, 2022, the fellowship program has transitioned to a Competency By Design (CBD) education model. Trainees will progress through the core competencies, as assessed by completion of Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) in Gynecologic Oncology as outlined by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in the following progression:

1. Transition to Discipline
2. Foundations of Discipline
3. Core
4. Transition to Pratice

Graduated responsibilities will include competency in the management of patients on the inpatient ward, assessment of patients in the chemotherapy day care unit, inpatient consultations, competencies with radical surgical procedures as applicable to gynecologic oncology and evaluation and management of patients presenting to emergency department. Active participation in the Gynecologic Oncology Multidisciplinary Cancer Conference (MCC) is expected. The resident will be expected to fully integrate themselves into the multidisciplinary model of care environment and to function as leader within the team under the supervision of attending staff physicians.

From a surgical exposure perspective, the resident will progress through a graduated experience in radical and complex gynecologic oncology procedures by open, laparoscopic and robotic approaches as per program and Royal College objectives. The division operates five days a week allowing for significant case load variety and volumes. The resident is expected to keep a detailed surgical logbook of cases throughout training.

Formal teaching is given during the weekly academic half day by gynecologic oncologists, medical and radiation oncologists, pharmacists, basic scientists and palliative care physicians. There will be formal teaching in research methodology and clinical appraisal skills. Residents will be expected to participate in and present at regular Journal Club, Morbidity and Mortality Rounds and Quality and Patient Safety Rounds. They will also be expected to present at Obstetrics and Gynecology Grand Rounds and Gynecology Teaching Rounds.

Required off service rotations:

1. Radiation Oncology – two months
2. Medical Oncology – two months
3. Palliative Care – one month

Two months in second year will be dedicated to elective rotations of the resident’s choosing. The remainder of the time will be spent on Gynecologic Oncology rotations.