In 2014 IFHNOS established the Global On Line Fellowship (GOLF) Program to improve the knowledge and judgment of Head and Neck Surgeons Internationally. This program emphasizes theoretical knowledge and clinical decision making only. In the GOLF program there is no hands on training component.

IFHNOS now is launching a comprehensive clinical and Academic program, The Comprehensive International Fellowship in Head and Neck Surgery and Oncology. This fellowship program will require at least one year of hands on surgical training in an accredited International training center. In addition to this, fellows are also required to register for and undertake the two year academic curriculam of the GOLF Program and complete all its written and oral examinations. The Centers offering this comprehensive fellowship program have met with international standards of head and neck training and are accredited by IFHNOS. The program directors are established leaders in the specialty. Completion of the comprehensive clinical fellowship and the GOLF program will qualify the candidates for conferral of IFHNS (International Fellow in Head and Neck Surgery)

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Applicants must have

• A minimum of four years of surgical training following completion of medical school and Board certification (or equivalent) in the specialty of general surgery, otolaryngology or plastic surgery, in their home country.
• Current engagement in Head and Neck Surgery training or practice.
• Certification and letter of support from the Head of the institution where the candidate conducts his/her clinical activities indicating a commitment by the candidate to the specialty of head and neck surgery and oncology, and current nature and tenure of employment.
• A complete list of operative procedures performed during the preceding year showing a significant proportion (over 50%) of head and neck cancer/tumor cases, where the candidate was either the operating surgeon or first assistant.
• Personal statement indicating commitment by the candidate to complete the Fellowship and future career goals to utilize the knowledge gained through this Fellowship.

The applicant must possess basic knowledge and skills for management of cancers of the oral cavity, larynx, pharynx, para nasal sinus, skull base, salivary gland, thyroid, parathyroid, cutaneous cancers, soft tissue and bone tumors, and allied conditions. In addition, exposure to and training in Diagnostic Radiology, Radiation Oncology, Medical Oncology, Endocrinology and Pathology is required. The applicant should also be familiar with the management of patients with major surgery, including metabolism, shock, haemorrhage, sepsis, cardio pulmonary disease, renal and gastro intestinal disorders related to head and neck tumours.

The fellowship involves a commitment of 2 years of self learning through a structured course curriculum, with periodic online examinations as the program progresses, until completion. It also requires a One month ‘Observership’, at a center of excellence in H&N Surgery. GOLF is not a degree or certification for practice of Head Neck Surgery and Oncology in your country. It is a tool to strengthen the judgment and skills of Head Neck surgeons and harmonize Head and Neck Oncology practice worldwide.

The current version of GOLF is not designed for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons whose educational and training curricula and licensing of surgical practice is limited to only some of the topics mentioned above. However, some Maxillofacial surgeons with double degree (Dental and Medical), may be eligible to meet with the requirements as stated above.

To apply, please complete the Global Online Fellowship in H&N Surgery and Oncology Application by clicking here and submit, along with the required supporting materials, Curriculum Vitae and non-refundable US $100 application processing fee to info@ifhnos.net

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