Indiana University School of Medicine Program
Location:
Indianapolis, INSpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5401714002The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship program at Indiana University School of Medicine trains physicians to develop expertise in caring for patients with serious illnesses and to become leaders in hospice and palliative care.
Fellows engage in a variety of clinical experiences and small group learning throughout the one-year fellowship program, ensuring they are well-prepared to practice palliative care in diverse settings.
Application Process
Interested applicants should apply for this fellowship program through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The application requirements are as follows: curriculum vitae, medical school transcript, MSPE, USMLE/COMLEX scores, personal statement, ECFMG status report if applicable, and three letters of recommendation, including one from a former program or supervising physician.2
Curriculum Details
The fellowship's curriculum offers a comprehensive experience, allowing fellows to provide palliative care in various environments, including public, VA, and private community hospitals. Additionally, fellows have opportunities to rotate at the Center of Hospice Care in South Bend, Indiana, and the local inpatient hospice partner unit at St. Vincent. The program organizes comprehensive small-group education sessions, incorporating didactics, simulation, and personal development tailored to assist fellows in becoming competent palliative care physicians.3
Fellows are also required to develop a scholarly or quality improvement project under the mentorship of experienced faculty. Examples of past projects include improving practices related to urine drug toxicology in outpatient settings and modifying code status clarity in electronic health records. The program emphasizes a supportive environment facilitated by dinners and relaxed settings for learning.3
Additional Educational Opportunities
Fellows participate in narrative medicine sessions, journal clubs, and career preparation workshops, covering various topics relevant to hospice and palliative care. Furthermore, fellows can experience global health education through elective rotations, such as one at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya, enhancing their understanding of palliative care practices in different contexts.3
Current Fellows' Experiences
The program supports a diverse array of fellows from various primary specialties, including internal medicine and pediatrics. Fellow testimonials emphasize the program's enriching experience, highlighting the outstanding faculty, meaningful connections with patients, and personal growth alongside clinical development opportunities.4
Life in Indianapolis
Located in the vibrant downtown area, the Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship program is surrounded by a dynamic city life. Indianapolis offers low cost-of-living, excellent public education, and numerous parks and recreational activities. The city is renowned for major sporting events such as the Indy 500 and has a rich cultural scene featuring museums, art venues, and outdoor recreational areas.5
Diversity and Inclusion
The fellowship program seeks candidates from diverse backgrounds and encourages applications from individuals underrepresented in medicine. The program acknowledges the significance of matching the physician workforce's diversity with the patient population's demographics, especially for individuals facing serious illnesses.1
For international applicants, visa sponsorship may be available for qualified candidates through the J-1 visa process. However, specific eligibility details regarding the visa process should be confirmed during the application.1
Competitiveness and Unique Aspects
The program is known to be highly competitive, particularly valuing applicants with robust clinical training and experience in caring for serious illness patients. It is considered friendly towards candidates from diverse backgrounds, including DO and IMG applicants, thereby fostering an inclusive environment.1
Website
Director
Lyle P Fettig, MDAssistant Professor of Clinical Medicine Appointed Since July 2014Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,502First 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
Indianapolis, IN
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Indianapolis, IN
- Crime Rate and Safety: Indianapolis has some high-crime areas, but overall, it has a moderate crime rate. It's always advisable to use common sense and take precautions.
- Fun Activities: Indianapolis offers a wide range of activities such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, museums, parks, and cultural events. The city is famous for its sports events.
- Climate: Indianapolis has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for all four seasons.
- Races and Population: Indianapolis is a diverse city with a mix of races and ethnicities. The population is around 900,000 people.
- Education: Indianapolis has good educational institutions including universities and colleges.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Indianapolis is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the US.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Indianapolis is around 3-4 hours' drive from Chicago, Illinois, and Cincinnati, Ohio. Both cities offer a wider range of entertainment options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse activities, and good educational opportunities.
- Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, winters can be cold.
Interview Questions
