Cytopathology

The fellowship provides training in: 

• Cytodiagnostics with access to cytological specimens from essentially all organ sites
• Specimen acquisition and on-site evaluation including a pathologist-led fine-needle clinic
• Current techniques in specimen triage, processing, evaluation and ancillary testing
• Up-to-date methods in quality improvement, laboratory performance and patient safety
• Communication skills in interaction with patients, relatives, laboratory and hospital staff
• Clinicopathological research and training through scientific project(s) and teaching

We focus on:

• Diagnostic proficiency
• Quality assurance and improvement techniques
• On-site assessment for EBUS/EUS, fluoroscopic, CT- and U/S-guided sampling
• Performance of ultrasound- and palpation-guided FNAs
• Ancillary studies (Immunohisto/cytochemistry, Flow cytometry, HPV testing, Molecular testing, Cytogenetics)
• Academic research and peer teaching
• Trainee participation in program planning and improvement

Supported through: 

• Combined annual specimens: ~45,000  
  • Papanicolaou tests (SurePath, ThinPrep): ~22,000 
  • Fine needle aspirations: ~8,000 
• Consultation cases: 1,000 - 2,000 

How you are assessed

You will be expected to maintain a training portfolio consisting of: 

• Continuous in-training evaluation
• Structured case log
• In-training examinations (slide-based, digital image-based, oral)
• Documented training assignments (consultation, critical results, quality, health policy etc.)
• Documented ancillary test result analysis and reporting
• Documented contribution to educational peer activities
• Evidence of scholarly activity

At the end of the program, your portfolio will be assessed by the AFC Competence Committee and the Program Co-directors and, if successful, you will obtain an RCPSC diploma in official recognition of your subspecialty training.

Competency training requirements for the Area of Focused Competence in Cytopathology

See the requirements from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). (PDF)

To be eligible, you must:

• meet the minimum eligibility requirements for licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
• Specialist Status: You must have completed residency training in Anatomical or General Pathology and must be certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. 
• Medical Practice License: Training will involve work with patients and/or patient records. You must have a valid CPSO Independent Practice License. 
• Malpractice Insurance: You must have malpractice insurance with the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA).

Application process 

Application deadline for July start: September 1 of the prior year (for example, September 1, 2020 application deadline for July 2021 start date). 

To apply, follow the same process for Clinical and Research Fellowships. 

Funding 

The fellowship is funded in an amount consistent with the funding requirements set by the Fellowship Education Advisory Committee of the Postgraduate Medical Education office.