Curriculum

Structure of the Cytopathology Fellowship

In order to develop diagnostic acumen, the fellow spends approximately eight months of the year on cytopathology sign-out at LAC+USC. Although always under supervision, the fellow is the primary cytopathologist in charge of cytology cases along with the accompanying surgical pathology, either cell blocks or core biopsies, and is responsible for professional communication with clinicians, radiologists and cytotechnologists and for timely completion of signout. The fellow will spend eight weeks in the cytopathology division of the Keck Hospital of USC in order to be exposed to a varied case mix and to alternate methods in laboratory management and cytopreparatory techniques. Outside of the four weeks of vacation, the fellow will spend one month on elective rotation/working on projects. Duty hours are 8:00 am to usually 6:00 pm, but no later than 9:00 pm, Monday through Friday.  There is no on-site night or weekend call responsibility.