Florida State University College of Medicine (Sarasota) Program

The Florida State University College of Medicine offers a comprehensive Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. This program is designed to educate fellows in the practice of holistic, interdisciplinary care for patients facing advanced and life-threatening illnesses, while also supporting their families. The mission of the fellowship is to prepare fellows to become compassionate and proficient board-certified hospice and palliative physicians who deliver exceptional care to patients throughout the course of their illnesses 1.

Program Structure

The fellowship consists of a one-year training program that prepares graduates for an array of clinical environments, including academic, clinical, and community settings. It encompasses diverse clinical experiences and ample opportunities for research, teaching, and leadership 1. Fellows participate actively in a variety of clinical settings, gaining exposure to multiple patient populations and treatment scenarios.

Curriculum

Fellows dedicate significant time to didactics, which occurs nearly every Thursday afternoon throughout the year. Educational activities include grand rounds, bioethics meetings, cancer conferences, and quality improvement (QI) projects, complying with ACGME standards. The program emphasizes a balanced curriculum, covering essential topics such as:

• Hospice vs. Palliative Care
• Difficult Conversations
• Family Caregiver Roles
• Foundation in Clinical Ethics
• Research and oncology-specific management topics

Fellows also engage in simulation exercises and various experiential learning opportunities that facilitate the development of vital competencies 3.

Rotations

The clinical training component includes a mixture of different rotations. The standard allocation includes:

• 6 months in Inpatient Palliative Medicine
• 3.5 months split between home hospice and inpatient hospice
• 1 month in Long-Term Care
• 1 month for elective pursuits
• 2 weeks in Radiation Oncology

A longitudinal clinic with Florida Cancer Specialists is also integrated throughout the fellowship 4.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Research activity is an integral part of the fellowship program. All fellows are required to undertake a scholarly project during their training, and they receive mentorship from faculty members experienced in diverse fields within palliative care. Each project culminates with a presentation to the faculty and peers, allowing fellows to share their findings 18.

Facilities and Training Sites

The fellowship takes place at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, a full-service health system known for its high-quality care, particularly in cardiology, trauma, and cancer services. In addition to the hospital, fellows have exposure to Tidewell Hospice, which has been serving the community since 1980, offering a patient-centered approach to hospice care. The partnership with Florida Cancer Specialists enhances the training experience by providing a well-rounded exposure to oncology perspectives 6.

Faculty

The program boasts a diverse faculty, each bringing a wealth of experience and specialization in hospice and palliative medicine. Faculty members support fellows through mentorship and guidance, fostering personal and professional development within a collaborative environment 8.

Fellow Benefits

Fellows receive a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, including major medical insurance, dental and vision coverage, a generous educational allowance for conferences or study materials, and paid time off 9. The fellowship program emphasizes wellness and encourages growth, ensuring fellows have access to resources for both personal and professional development.

Application Information

Applicants for the fellowship must possess a valid ECFMG certification, have completed all necessary exams, and provide several key application documents, including a personal statement, CV, and letters of recommendation. The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship but does not accept or sponsor H-1 visas 12. The competitive nature of the fellowship is balanced by its support for diverse applicants, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds.

Local Area

The fellowship is situated in Sarasota, a vibrant city on Florida's west coast, known for its cultural events, picturesque beaches, and outdoor recreational opportunities. This enriching environment enhances the fellows' training and lifestyle, promoting a balance between work and leisure 13.

Wellness

The program prioritizes wellness, aiming to create an environment that cultivates both physical and mental health. There are structured initiatives in place to support fellows' well-being, promoting a harmonious balance between professional responsibilities and personal life 14.