George Washington University School of Medicine Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5401014044The George Washington University (GW) School of Medicine offers a comprehensive fellowship program in Hospice and Palliative Medicine that focuses on multidisciplinary approaches to care. The mission of the program is to enhance the health and well-being of patients with serious illnesses through compassionate, patient-centered care that is tailored to meet individual needs. With a strong emphasis on quality care, the program aims to minimize pain and maximize overall patient function, emphasizing the importance of empathy in clinical practice 1.
One of the unique aspects of the program is its extensive experience and dedication to geriatric and palliative care. The fellowship program is the largest in the Washington metropolitan area, which underscores its commitment to high-quality education and clinical excellence 1. The faculty includes board-certified specialists who provide comprehensive care across a spectrum of settings including outpatient clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and hospice environments. This continuum of care offers fellows the opportunity to develop skills in managing complex medical issues that are common among elderly and seriously ill patients 1.
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum for the Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship consists of various rotations designed to provide comprehensive exposure to the field. Fellows engage in clinical rotations that involve hands-on experience in inpatient consultations, outpatient follow-ups, and home hospice care. This multidisciplinary training enhances clinical skills and fosters collaboration among interns, residents, and senior staff. Additionally, fellows have opportunities to participate in a comprehensive geriatrics clinic, house calls, memory evaluation treatment clinics, and palliative medicine programs 1.
Research and Innovation
The program places a significant emphasis on research, innovative practices, and evidence-based medicine. As part of their fellowship training, participants are encouraged to engage in research activities that align with the program’s mission to improve care for patients with serious illnesses. The George Washington Institute for Spirituality and Health and the GW Center for Aging Health and Humanities are key research affiliations that support fellows in exploring various aspects of health, wellness, and spirituality in patient care 1.
Educational Opportunities
The GW School of Medicine offers a robust framework for educational growth through diverse fellowship initiatives. Alongside the Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship, other educational programs include the Geriatric Medicine Fellowship and various electives within the MD program. This allows fellows to immerse themselves in related areas of study and develop a broad understanding of geriatric and palliative care 1.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is committed to supporting international medical graduates, and visa sponsorship is available. The most common visa types sponsored include J-1 exchange visitor visas for research scholars and medical graduates seeking clinical training 1. Prospective fellows should be aware that the program is highly competitive, seeking applicants who possess exceptional clinical skills, a strong dedication to service, and a commitment to the values of the field. While the program accommodates a diverse cohort including both MD and DO candidates, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs), strong candidates are often those with a demonstrated passion for palliative care and psychosocial aspects of patient treatment 1.
Application Requirements
Applicants to the Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship must meet specific requirements to be considered for admission. Although the details of maximum allowable failed STEP exams are not explicitly mentioned, it is advisable for candidates to have solid scores and a good overall academic record. Additionally, the program prefers candidates who have completed their medical education within a specified timeframe from the current application cycle, typically not more than a few years prior to application 1.
Website
Director
Laura A Hofmann, MDProgram Director, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, George Washington University School of Medicine Appointed Since May 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
54hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$73,936First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Washington, DC
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Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
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