Building Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Workforce Capacity in Latin America.

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to assess five pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship programs in Latin America by analyzing the profile of trainees and graduates, and their integration into the workforce.

Methods: To train pediatric hematologists/oncologists, the St. Jude Global Academy collaborates with five institutions in Latin America: Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica (Guatemala), Hospital Civil de Guadalajara (Mexico), Hospital Pereira Rossell (Uruguay), Hospital Oncológico de Barretos (Brazil), and GRAACC (Brazil). Data on the origin of graduates, current job roles, and responsibilities were assessed.

Results: Between 2003 and 2024, 110 physicians from 14 countries in Latin America started training in the five programs. Sixty-eight (61.8%) physicians completed training, while 36 (32.7%) are still currently in training. Six trainees (5.5%) withdrew from training prior to completion. Of 59 survey respondents, 47 (79.7%) currently work at a pediatric cancer unit. Thirty-seven (62.7%) graduates started working in pediatric oncology immediately after finishing training. The mean time for the 47 graduates working in pediatric cancer units to find a position was 0.18 years. After entering the pediatric oncology workforce, the mean time dedicated to pediatric oncology was 52.0%, with 15.5% spent on benign hematology, 12.8% on other clinical areas, 9.2% on administrative tasks, 6.9% on teaching, and 4.2% on research. Twenty-six (44%) graduates currently have a leadership role at their institutions.

Conclusion: The five programs have trained Latin American specialists to care for children with cancer, with high integration into the pediatric oncology workforce. Graduates now contribute across the region, though further analyses are needed to define a comprehensive regional workforce strategy.