Assessment of the Need for a Hematology-Specific Fellowship Curriculum for Advanced Practice Providers Using a Needs-Based Survey

PURPOSE: Subspecialty training programs rarely are available for advanced practice providers (APPs). New curricula are needed to prepare APPs with the skills and knowledge required to deliver high-quality care in hematology and blood and marrow transplantation (BMT).

METHODS: A Web-based needs assessment survey was distributed to APPs currently working in hematology and BMT at three Mayo Clinic sites (Rochester, MN; Scottsdale, AZ; and Jacksonville, FL). The survey assessed participants' perceptions of readiness to practice in hematology after completion of their APP education and identified APP learning needs.

RESULTS: Of 68 APPs, 49 (72%; 34 nurse practitioners, 15 physician assistants) completed the survey. Twenty-eight APPs (57%) were new graduates, and 17 (35%) had no prior experience in hematology/BMT. All APPs held a master's degree or higher (doctorate, 31%). Thirty-nine (80%) reported that less than 5% of their APP school curriculum was hematology focused. More than 90% felt unprepared to practice in hematology or BMT after their APP education and believed that hematology-specific training could improve their competency as providers and positively affect job satisfaction. APPs reported that they would like more formal training in the following areas of clinical focus: malignant and benign hematologic disorders, hematopathology, palliative care, transfusion medicine, infectious disease, and hematology-related pharmacology. They also preferred the following learning strategies: active learning from patient care, case-based teaching, and experience during hospital rounds.

CONCLUSION: This needs-based assessment project confirmed the necessity to develop a hematology-specific fellowship for APPs and helped to optimize the curriculum.