Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU Health) Program

The 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