The Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at improving access to quality and equitable cancer care in underserved communities, particularly across Africa and developing countries. By providing scholarships and specialized training, the program seeks to build professional cancer care capacity and establish multidisciplinary oncology teams in regions with limited resources.

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Program Components  

1. Oncology Fellowship Program: Offers one-, two-, and three-year fellowships, diplomas, and master's degrees in various oncology specialties, including medical, surgical, pediatric, gynecological, radiation, and hematology oncology. Training is conducted in India, Egypt, and Kenya.
2. Online Postgraduate Diplomas: Provides two-year online PG Diploma in Cancer and Clinical Oncology and one-year online PG Diploma in Medical Oncology through reputed UK universities.
3. Short-Term Training Programs: Includes training for radiation technicians, oncology nurses, laboratory technicians, and research in oncology, ranging from one to six months.
4. Community Awareness Initiatives: Focuses on raising awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment through community engagement and educational campaigns.

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Eligibility Criteria  

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS/MBChB).
• Possess postgraduate qualifications relevant to the chosen specialty (e.g., internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, etc.).
• Be recommended by the Ministry of Health, First Lady's Office, or Medical Societies of their respective countries.
• Provide necessary documentation, including CV, graduation certificates, income proof, personal statement, and recommendation letters.

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Application Process  

1. Identify the desired specialty and training program.
2. Obtain a recommendation from the appropriate authority (Ministry of Health, First Lady's Office, or Medical Society).
3. Prepare the required documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Graduation Certificates
• Income Proof
• Personal Statement
• Recommendation Letter

4. Submit the application through the Merck Foundation's online portal: Apply NowMerck foundation

Impact  

Since its inception, the Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program has provided over 200 scholarships to doctors from more than 30 African countries, significantly increasing the number of trained oncologists and establishing the first cancer care teams in several nations.

This program offers a transformative opportunity for medical professionals to enhance their oncology expertise and contribute to improving cancer care in their home countries.

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