Gynecologic Oncology
Residency Program
Residency Program
Program Director
Dr. Anna Cameron
E: anna.cameron@ahs.ca
Program Administrator
Judy McFadzen
E: Judy.McFadzen@ahs.ca
T: 403.521.3775
F: 403.283.1651
Mailing Address
Gynecologic Oncology Tom Baker Cancer Centre 1331 - 29 Street NW Calgary, AB T2N 4N2
University of Calgary Residency Program
The Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, in conjunction with the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, provides a formal training program in Gynecologic Oncology accredited by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Prerequisites
This is a 2-year clinical training program that requires successful completion of a 5-year Training Program in Obstetrics & Gynecology in a Royal College accredited program or equivalent. Applicants must be currently enrolled in a training program.
Program Outline
The first year is mostly spent in the outpatient clinics, on the ward, and about one day per week in the operating room. The ward patients are diverse and include patients who require inpatient chemotherapy, postoperative patients, and palliative care patients. There is a colposcopy rotation in the first year. A minor procedure operating room runs once per week and residents can attend on a rotating basis. This is an opportunity for the residents to learn how to perform the following procedures: examinations under anesthesia, cystoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, tenckhoff catheter insertion, cone biopsies and laser therapy.
During the latter half of the first year of residency, there is an eight-week rotation each in radiation oncology and medical oncology. There is also the opportunity for selectives in surgical oncology, colorectal surgery, palliative care, and research.
The Gynecologic Oncology program at the University of Calgary is a high-volume center. We see approximately -20 new patients, 40-45 chemotherapy patients, and 50-60 follow-up patients on a weekly basis. In addition, the program participates in NCIC and Industry-Sponsored Phase II and III trials. The access to clinical trials is an excellent opportunity for the residents to learn how to manage patients on clinical trials.
The second year is focused on more complex open and laparoscopic gynecologic oncology surgery as well as the post-operative management of complex patients. In addition, the residents spend dedicated time on assessing and treating chemotherapy patients. Each resident functions as the Lead resident for four to six months. During this time, the Lead resident manages the entire team of learners, can select the appropriate surgical cases for their learning and manages the inpatient ward. The focus during the second year is to develop the skills to be able to transition to a consultant gynecologic oncologist.
A third additional year in research to pursue a master’s in education Epidemiology/and Statistics/Public Health can also be offered. This additional year is usually offered as the first year of the program prior to the start of the 2 clinical residency years.
Teaching
It is expected that the trainee will participate in the core curriculum seminars, Pathology Tumor Board Rounds, Gynecologic Oncology Rounds, and other teaching sessions relevant to the specialty.
Research
All Fellows are expected to have completed at least one research project and have it accepted in a peer-reviewed journal.
Resources
The Gynecologic Oncology Program includes six qualified Gynecologic Oncologists working in a team with three Radiation Oncologists, six Gynecologic Pathologists. There is close coordination with the surgical and medical oncologists.
Selection Criteria
Applications to the Gynecologic Oncology Program must be received the year prior to the year in which you wish to start your training. Applications must be submitted to the program administrator, Judy McFadzen (listed below), no later than August 15, 2024. The following are required for application: • Covering letter explaining why you wish to pursue a career in Gynecologic Oncology • CV • Three letters of reference • An elective is encouraged for Canadian applicants • For international applicants an elective if in residency or, if completed residency, a skills assessment is mandatory