Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Medical College of Wisconsin offers a one-year clinical fellowship program in Hospice and Palliative Medicine, becoming increasingly recognized for its value in preparing physicians for a career in this vital field. As one of the first ACGME-accredited fellowships in the nation, the program combines foundational clinical training with significant educational opportunities for fellows.

The fellowship is designed to develop clinicians into skilled educators, equipping them for roles in both academic and community settings. Training is conducted within an interdisciplinary framework, allowing fellows to gain experience across a variety of environments—these include inpatient consultation services, specialized palliative care units, and outpatient continuity care clinics, among others. This comprehensive exposure ensures that participants are well-prepared to address the complexities involved in caring for seriously ill patients 1.

Curriculum and Structure

The curriculum encompasses a well-rounded approach to palliative care education. Fellows are expected to engage in quality improvement projects, gaining essential insights into enhancing patient care and safety 1. Each fellow will participate in a month-long home hospice rotation, refining skills in a crucial area of palliative care that highlights the significance of comfort and support in a patient's own environment.

In addition to clinical rotations, fellows benefit from a robust educational framework that includes a dedicated orientation, a series of lectures led by faculty, and a journal club focused on recent advancements in palliative care research 1. The fellows can also participate in a multimedia platform for learning and collaboration facilitated by faculty involvement, which enhances fellows' understanding of practical and ethical issues in palliative medicine.

Training Sites

The fellowship includes clinical rotations at notable institutions, such as Froedtert Hospital, Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, and Children’s Wisconsin. Every rotation equips the fellows with unique insights into the distinct patient populations they serve. For instance, the rotation at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center exposes fellows to veteran care, while involvement at Aurora VNA Zilber Family Hospice allows them to experience the dynamics of a free-standing hospice facility 1.

Research and Educational Opportunities

Research is a significant component of the fellowship, as faculty members are involved in multiple clinical studies, providing fellows opportunities for meaningful scholarship 1. The program also supports fellows in attending key national conferences, such as the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine’s Annual Assembly, providing further avenues for professional development and networking.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program emphasizes not only the clinical competencies necessary for effective palliative care but equally the development of communication and leadership skills. A critical focus is placed on well-rounded training that incorporates teamwork, a core element in palliative care practices 1. This multidisciplinary approach enables fellows to learn from various experts, including clinicians from diverse specialties such as geriatrics, internal medicine, and pediatrics.

Visa Support

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) can apply to the fellowship with specific requirements; however, visa support is limited exclusively to the J-1 visa category, which must be sponsored through the ECFMG. Unfortunately, applicants on H-1B visas are not accommodated in this program 1.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is competitive, and the program welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with DO and IMG statuses. Applicants are evaluated based on several factors, including USMLE scores and letters of recommendation, among other application components 1. It’s recommended that candidates maintain strong academic performance, as well as professional and clinical expertise, to increase their likelihood of acceptance.

Benefits and Living in Milwaukee

The Medical College of Wisconsin provides competitive benefits to fellows, including funding for attending educational conferences, professional development opportunities, and mentorship programs. Its location in Milwaukee also offers a rich cultural experience, with a vibrant community and numerous local activities to engage in during residency 1.