City of Hope National Medical Center Program
Specialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5400512117The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship Program at City of Hope National Medical Center is a robust, multidisciplinary training program designed to equip fellows with an in-depth understanding of hospice and palliative care. As a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, City of Hope is committed to combining compassionate patient-centered care with excellence in medical education.
Fellows in this program benefit from an engaging curriculum that includes 13 block rotations, each specifically designed to address the essential competencies in hospice and palliative medicine. This extensive exposure allows fellows to treat patients with various advanced medical and oncological conditions, enhancing their skills and knowledge in the palliative care of patients in diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds 1.
Clinical Training Sites
Patient care for fellows occurs at several esteemed clinical sites:
- City of Hope National Medical Center
- Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles
- Vitas Healthcare
- Kindred Healthcare
This multi-site experience ensures fellows gain a range of clinical perspectives and practices, preparing them for various real-world scenarios they may encounter in their future careers.
Curriculum and Educational Activities
In addition to faculty-supervised rotations, the program emphasizes continuous learning through a variety of educational activities. These include:
- Monthly pain boards
- Journal clubs focused on current literature and advancements in palliative medicine
- Weekly didactic sessions featuring topics pertinent to hospice and palliative care
- Encouragement to participate in Institutional Grand Rounds and Schwartz Center Rounds
- Annual attendance at the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) conference
Such comprehensive educational initiatives help cultivate a knowledge-rich environment that is vital for effective patient care 1.
Application Requirements
To apply for the fellowship, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Completion of an ACGME-approved residency program
- Submission of a curriculum vitae
- A personal statement detailing their interest in and commitment to palliative care
- Three letters of recommendation, including one from their department head or program director
- USMLE (U.S. Medical Licensing Examination) transcripts
These requirements ensure that applicants have a strong foundation in medicine and a clear commitment to the principles of hospice and palliative care 1.
Competitiveness and Eligibility
The program is highly competitive, attracting applicants from diverse backgrounds, including U.S. medical graduates as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). The fellowship's inclusive nature makes it appealing to candidates with varying medical qualifications and training histories. Special consideration may be given to applicants demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of palliative care and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for patients facing serious illness 1.
Visa Support
The program sponsors J-1 visas for eligible international medical graduates, facilitating their participation in this rigorous training. This visa type is particularly suitable for those who have completed their medical education and wish to engage in further training within the United States, as it allows for the necessary duration of stay for the fellowship 1.
Research Opportunities
Fellows are encouraged to engage in research activities, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge within hospice and palliative care. The program provides ample opportunities to collaborate with faculty on academic projects and clinical trials, which can lead to publications and presentations at national conferences. The alignment of research interests with clinical practice is a hallmark of the fellowship, granting fellows the chance to navigate the complexities of palliative care through both service and inquiry 1.
Conclusion
Participating in City of Hope's Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship Training program allows fellows to emerge as leaders in the field, enriched with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide competent, compassionate care to patients and families facing serious health challenges. This program exemplifies a commitment to excellence in medical education, combined with a patient-centered philosophy that is integral to the mission of City of Hope.
Website
- 1 .Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship Program | City of Hope
- 2 .Breast Surgical Oncology Training Program Application | City of Hope
- 3 .Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Fellowship | City of Hope
- 4 .Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship Program | Faculty | City of Hope Cancer Center
- 5 .Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship Program | Program Graduates | City of Hope Cancer Center
- 6 .Clinical Health Psychology Postdoctoral Fellowship | City of Hope
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Director
Sorin Buga, MDClinical Professor and, Program Director Appointed Since April 2018Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$80,542First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
7.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Duarte, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Duarte, CA
Duarte is a suburb located in Los Angeles County, California. Here are some aspects of living in Duarte:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Duarte has a mixed reputation for safety. While it has relatively low crime rates compared to other areas in Los Angeles, it's always recommended to take necessary precautions.
- Fun Activities: Residents of Duarte can enjoy the nearby Angeles National Forest for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping. The city also has parks and community events for leisure.
- Climate: Duarte has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The area gets sunshine most of the year, but can also experience moderate rainfall in the winter months.
- Races and Population: Duarte has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Education: The city is served by the Duarte Unified School District, providing educational opportunities for residents. Additionally, there are nearby colleges and universities for higher education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Duarte is higher than the national average due to its proximity to Los Angeles. Housing costs can be a significant factor to consider.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Duarte is approximately 20 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, which can be reached in about 30-45 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Los Angeles offers a wide range of cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Proximity to nature, diverse community, access to urban amenities in nearby Los Angeles.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, potential traffic congestion when commuting to larger cities.