Larkin Community Hospital Palm Springs Campus Program

The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship program at Larkin Community Hospital Palm Springs Campus is a comprehensive one-year ACGME-accredited program that aims to cultivate skilled and compassionate palliative care physicians who can significantly impact their communities. The program is geared towards building competencies in various aspects of hospice and palliative care through a structured curriculum featuring various rotations in different clinical settings.

Program Structure

The fellowship is designed to cover a wide spectrum of clinical experiences critical to hospice and palliative medicine. The fellows will actively engage in inpatient hospital settings, outpatient clinics, and hospice environments. This multifaceted approach is aimed at equipping fellows with the essential skills and knowledge that form the foundation of competent palliative care providers. Expert supervision and mentorship provide continuous support throughout the fellowship journey, ensuring that fellows receive both practical and theoretical training.

The curriculum adheres to all ACGME requirements and emphasizes multiple core competencies, including:

• Medical Knowledge
• Communication Skills
• Professionalism
• Systems-Based Practice
• Patient Care
• Practice-Based Learning

Rotations and Clinical Experiences

The program offers various rotations, including pediatric palliative care, inpatient palliative care, outpatient palliative clinic, and hospice medicine. This array of rotation specialties enriches the training experience, allowing fellows to gain exposure and proficiency in key areas of palliative care. Moreover, structured didactic sessions, morning reports, and journal clubs supplement clinical training with a focus on patient-oriented and evidence-based medicine.

Research Opportunities

Fellows will be encouraged to engage in research projects, drawing from the resources available at the Larkin Community Hospital's Department of Research and Academic Affairs. This provides an environment conducive to scholarly work, enhancing their academic profile and expertise in the field of hospice and palliative medicine. The program supports fellows in developing their skills in generating quality improvement projects and conducting relevant medical research.

Application Process

To be considered for the Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship, applicants must fulfill specific criteria. They are required to have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program or equivalent in Canada and must be board certified or board eligible in either Internal Medicine or Family Medicine. The program predominantly admits candidates through ERAS, ensuring a streamlined and efficient application process. Interviews are also conducted via ERAS, and all applicants should demonstrate an active pursuit of board certification.

Competitiveness and Inclusivity

The program maintains a competitive selection process, welcoming candidates from diverse backgrounds, including DOs and IMGs. It offers a supportive atmosphere that acknowledges the unique experiences and qualifications of all applicants. The program aims to recruit fellows who reflect the community it serves, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and diversity within its ranks. The intent is to foster a learning environment that enhances the educational and cultural fabric of the program.

Visa Support

In terms of visa sponsorship, the program offers support for both J-1 and H-1B visas, catering to international medical graduates who seek to broaden their medical training in the United States.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the most notable aspects of this fellowship is its community-centric approach, focusing on a strong Hispanic population, thus utilizing bilingual capabilities effectively. This unique demographic aspect of training allows fellows to expand their cultural competency and enhance their patient interactions within diverse community settings. Additionally, the program features concurrent noon conferences and collaborative opportunities with various other fellowship specialties, enriching the learning environment significantly.

Life in Miami

Fellows will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant lifestyle of Miami. The area is renowned for its cultural diversity, year-round pleasant weather, and a variety of recreational activities. Access to beautiful beaches, entertainment venues, and academic institutions enhances both personal and professional development opportunities while in fellowship.