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In-Training ExamHematology and oncology in-training exam (ITE) prep for fellows
The ASCO Medical Oncology ITE and the ASH Hematology In-Service Exam, with a plan by fellowship year.The in-training exams are the first time most fellows see how they stack up against the board blueprint. Here is what the ASCO Medical Oncology ITE and the ASH Hematology In-Service Exam are, how to read your score report, and a simple plan for each fellowship year using the free heme/onc Qbank.
ASCO Medical Oncology In-Training Exam
- Who and when: medical oncology fellows, each February, since 2008. Results arrive by spring.
- Score report: a scaled score with a percentile by fellowship year, the percentage correct in each content area against peers, and educational objectives tied to the questions you missed.
- Purpose: feedback for fellows and programs. ASCO says results should not be used punitively.
Source: ASCO Connection: ITE score reports.
ASH Hematology In-Service Exam
ASH offers a Hematology In-Service Exam, a low-stakes exam to improve the training of hematology fellows. ASH also runs the Hematology Review Series, weekly lectures and live question sessions from June to November that follow the ABIM Hematology blueprint before the fall boards.
Sources: ASH: resources for training program directors; ASH Hematology Review Series.
A plan by fellowship year
- First year: after each rotation, read the board review note for the diseases you saw and do a 10 to 20 question tutor block on that subject.
- Second year: one timed mixed block every week or two; learn the landmark trials for each disease site, and use the flashcards for drug toxicities.
- Final year: blueprint-weighted mock exams in the months before the boards, plus review of every missed question.
Use your score report
Sort the content areas from your report by how far you are below your peers. For the bottom two or three, read the note, review the key trials and run a short tutor block on that Qbank subject, then retest with a timed block a few weeks later.
In-training exam frequently asked questions
When is the ASCO Medical Oncology In-Training Exam?
ASCO gives the Medical Oncology In-Training Exam (ITE) each February, with results by spring. Your program director registers the fellowship program.
What does the ITE score report show?
ASCO's report gives a scaled score with a percentile rank by fellowship year, the percentage correct in each content area compared with peers in the same year, and educational objectives for the questions you missed.
Is there an in-training exam for hematology?
Yes. ASH offers a Hematology In-Service Exam, which it describes as a low-stakes exam to improve the training of hematology fellows.
Does the in-training exam score count?
ASCO describes the ITE as a feedback and education tool for fellows and programs and says results should not be used punitively. It is a good early read on board readiness.
How should I study for the ITE?
Study the same blueprint as the boards: a short tutor-mode Qbank block after each rotation in first year, timed mixed blocks in the months before the exam, and the notes and landmark trials for your weakest content areas.
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