Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University/Christiana Care Health Services Program
Location:
Wilmington, DESpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5400912003Christiana Care Health Services offers a distinct fellowship program in Hospice and Palliative Medicine, affiliated with the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University. Particularly known for its commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, the program emphasizes a holistic patient care model that encompasses both medical management and emotional and spiritual support.
Curriculum
The curriculum is meticulously structured to ensure that fellows gain comprehensive training in both inpatient and outpatient hospice and palliative care settings. The program includes clinical rotations where fellows can engage with various specialties, allowing them to develop a nuanced understanding of pain management, symptom control, and psychosocial aspects of patient care.
1Educational activities are designed to be hands-on, enhancing fellows' proficiency in the clinical skills needed in palliative care. This includes participating in family meetings, case presentations, and interprofessional collaboration discussions as part of multidisciplinary teams.
2Rotations
Fellows have the opportunity to rotate through diverse settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and home hospice environments. This variety in training sites not only prepares fellows to care for patients across different stages of illness but also introduces them to various healthcare providers and practice styles. Such exposure is vital for developing adaptable skills that prepare fellows for their future careers.
This program highlights the importance of continuity of care, threading the various stages of palliative treatment through coordination with other specialties, primary care physicians, and community resources.
3Research Opportunities
Research is an integral aspect of the fellowship, with opportunities to engage in quality improvement projects and clinical research. Fellows are encouraged to develop their research skills in areas significant to hospice and palliative medicine, such as pain management, end-of-life care, and healthcare disparities. This engagement not only supports fellow competency but also contributes to the broader medical community.
4 The program fosters an environment where fellows can present their research findings and partake in collaborative projects with faculty members.Unique Aspects of the Program
The program offers a rich learning environment with access to renowned faculty who are experts in palliative care. Faculty members play an active role in mentorship, guiding fellows through complex patient cases while enhancing their clinical and leadership abilities.
5 The collegial atmosphere among fellows and faculty promotes continuous learning, openness to feedback, and lifelong professional development.6Training Sites
Fellows train at ChristianaCare’s extensive network, which is one of the largest not-for-profit healthcare systems in the region. Experience is gained through working at the main hospital as well as associated outpatient clinics and community hospice service, thus ensuring that fellows have comprehensive exposure to various care environments.
7 The diversity of the patient population enriches the learning experience, allowing fellows to manage a wide array of clinical scenarios and cultural contexts.Visa Support
The program is facilitated in a manner that provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Specifically, the fellowship program can sponsor J-1 visas for those who qualify. This makes it accessible for international fellows to apply, promoting a diverse learning community.
8Competitiveness of the Program
While the program is well-regarded and thus competitive, it remains friendly towards both Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) candidates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The selection criteria focus on candidates' clinical skills, experience, and commitment to palliative care rather than solely on standardized test scores.
9Application Requirements
Applicants are expected to submit a comprehensive application through ERAS, which includes a valid ECFMG certification for IMGs, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and a curriculum vitae. It is important to note that a maximum of one failed Step exam is acceptable for applicants.
10Website
Director
Sarah J Matthews, MDAttending physician, HPM Program Director Appointed Since February 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
-Residents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Wilmington, DE
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Wilmington, DE
- Safety: Wilmington has some areas with higher crime rates, but overall it is relatively safe.
- Fun Activities: The city offers various museums, parks, and cultural events. It's also close to beaches like Rehoboth Beach for weekend getaways.
- Climate: Wilmington has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.
- Races and Population: The population of Wilmington is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities.
- Education: There are several universities and colleges in and around Wilmington, offering educational opportunities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Wilmington is slightly above the national average.
- Nearest Big Cities: Philadelphia is the nearest big city to Wilmington, located about 30 minutes to 1 hour away by car (depending on traffic). Philadelphia offers a vibrant urban scene, historical attractions, and diverse dining options.
- Pros: Proximity to major cities, cultural events, and diversity.
- Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, and the cost of living is slightly higher than average.
Interview Questions
