Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU Health) Program
Location:
Portland, ORSpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5404014004The Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Program in Hospice and Palliative Medicine in Portland provides a comprehensive training experience focused on multidisciplinary approaches to palliative care. This program aims to equip physicians with the skills necessary to improve quality of life through a holistic understanding of patient care, addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
Curriculum
The curriculum for this program is meticulously crafted to include a combination of didactic learning and practical experience. Residents are engaged in interactive lectures, case discussions, and collaborative care planning sessions. The program emphasizes continuous learning through structured educational sessions that cover key topics such as pain management, communication skills, ethics in end-of-life care, and symptom management.1
Rotations
Rotations in the OHSU program expose residents to a variety of clinical settings. Residents will have the opportunity to work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with rotations in hospice care, palliative medicine consultations, and community-based settings. The multifaceted nature of these rotations is designed to ensure exposure to diverse patient populations, including those with cancer, heart failure, neurological conditions, and other life-limiting illnesses.2
Research Opportunities
Research is a core component of the OHSU program, allowing residents to engage in meaningful academic inquiry. Residents are encouraged to participate in research projects that seek to advance the field of palliative medicine. They have access to experienced faculty mentors who guide them through the research process, from proposal to publication. This experience can be instrumental in shaping a resident's career and advancing knowledge in palliative care practices.3
Unique Aspects of the Program
The OHSU program is distinguished by its multidisciplinary approach, which fosters collaboration among professionals from various fields including medicine, nursing, social work, and spiritual care. This collaborative environment enriches the training experience and enhances the comprehensive care provided to patients. Additionally, the program places a strong emphasis on cultural competence, recognizing the importance of tailoring care to meet the diverse backgrounds and needs of patients.4
Training Sites
Training sites include OHSU hospitals and clinics, where residents gain hands-on experience working under the supervision of experienced faculty and clinicians. The varied training sites facilitate a robust learning environment that encourages integration between hospital-based care and community health services, ensuring a well-rounded palliative care training experience.5
Visa Support
The OHSU program offers comprehensive visa support for qualified international medical graduates (IMGs). The program typically sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas, enabling international candidates to pursue their residency training in the United States with necessary immigration assistance and guidance.6
Competitiveness
The program is characterized as highly competitive, attracting a diverse pool of applicants including U.S. graduates as well as international medical graduates and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) graduates. The program seeks candidates who are not only academically qualified but also demonstrate a strong commitment to patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration.7
Special Application Requirements
Applicants to the OHSU program may be subject to specific eligibility requirements, such as a cap on the number of failed Step exams. Additionally, recent graduation years may be taken into consideration as well as the candidate's clinical experience in palliative care settings. Each applicant is assessed holistically, with the goal of selecting individuals committed to excellence in patient care and innovation in the field of palliative medicine.8
Website
Director
Katie H Stowers, DOAssociate Professor, Program Director, Hospice and Palliative Medicine Appointed Since November 2017Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$81,218First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Portland, OR
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Portland, OR
- Crime Rate and Safety: Portland has a mix of safe neighborhoods and areas with higher crime rates. Like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
- Fun Activities: Portland is known for its vibrant food scene, craft breweries, outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and cultural events such as music and art festivals.
- Climate: Portland has a mild climate with plenty of rain and moderate temperatures. Summers are generally dry and warm, while winters are wet and cool.
- Races and Population: Portland is known for its diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to its rich cultural scene.
- Education: Portland offers quality education with schools and universities known for their academic excellence.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Portland can be moderate to high, with housing costs being a significant factor.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Seattle, WA is approximately 3 hours away by car from Portland, offering a larger urban center with more amenities and job opportunities.
- Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, outdoor activities, diverse population.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, mixed safety ratings in different neighborhoods.
Interview Questions
