Development of a Hematology-Oncology Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship Program.

Abstract

New graduate advanced practice providers (APPs) who accept jobs within the hematology-oncology field face many challenges when beginning their careers. Specific challenges include a lack of specialty-specific training, expedited orientation periods, and a large patient volume. These challenges can lead to dissatisfaction within the role, unsafe patient care, and ultimately costly job turnover. In order to better prepare APPs for the specialty workforce, the hematology-oncology fellowship program at Levine Cancer Institute has worked to develop and cultivate a comprehensive curriculum to meet the many needs identified. The hematology-oncology APP fellowship program is a 12-month curriculum that includes both didactic as well as clinical requirements. The fellowship program provides guidance in a structured practice setting and has ultimately offered APPs the opportunity to successfully transition into their specialty care role.