Indiana University School of Medicine Program

The 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