Strong Memorial Hospital of the University of Rochester Program

The Strong Memorial Hospital of the University of Rochester offers a comprehensive fellowship program in Hospice and Palliative Medicine designed to develop proficient specialists in the management of pain and complex symptoms in seriously ill patients. This multidisciplinary program equips fellows with specialized knowledge through a structured curriculum that integrates clinical training, research, and educational experiences.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is designed to provide fellows with a broad-based education in palliative care. This includes direct patient care experiences in various medical settings, medical and surgical care units, the Wilmot Cancer Center, and the Intensive Care Units. Within the hospital, fellows engage with a diverse team that also operates the Sussman Palliative Care Unit, which uniquely serves as the only hospital-based palliative care unit in the region.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows participate in a rigorous rotation schedule that delivers hands-on experience in various aspects of palliative care. This includes outpatient clinic settings, where fellows learn to manage consultations for patients with serious illnesses across multiple locations, including the Palliative Care Clinic and satellite clinics. The program emphasizes both in-person and virtual patient interactions, recognizing the need for flexibility in modern healthcare delivery.

Research Opportunities

The program fosters an environment for research and scholarly activity in palliative care, with access to internationally recognized scholars and ongoing projects. Fellows are encouraged to engage in academic endeavors that contribute to the growing body of knowledge in palliative care, making it one of the few Palliative Care Research Centers in the country.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Strong Memorial Hospital Palliative Care Program has been a pioneer in developing comprehensive palliative care services. Established in 2001, the program has expanded significantly, now boasting a large team of healthcare professionals, including 17 physicians and several nurse practitioners. The multidisciplinary approach is a hallmark of the program, ensuring that multiple facets of patient care, including psychological support, are addressed.

Training Sites

The fellowship provides training across various sites, enriching the educational experience of fellows. The palliative care team is equipped to handle a wide range of serious illnesses, not limited to cancer, thereby granting fellows exposure to a variety of cases and patient needs.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports international applicants by offering visa sponsorship options, including J-1 and H-1B visas. This commitment underscores the program’s inclusivity and its recognition of the contributions made by international medical graduates (IMGs) in the field of palliative medicine.

Competitiveness of the Program

Strong Memorial Hospital's palliative medicine fellowship is known for its high level of competitiveness. The program is not only DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) friendly but also welcomes IMGs, making it a diverse environment for fellows from various backgrounds. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a strong foundation in clinical care and a genuine interest in palliative medicine.

Application Requirements

To apply for this fellowship, candidates should hold an MD or DO degree and must have completed an accredited residency program before starting in the fellowship. While there is no official limit to the number of failed STEP examinations, the program does look for a strong academic record and the ability to demonstrate clinical competency. Candidates should also express their commitment to palliative care throughout the application process.

Support for Families and Patients

The program emphasizes the importance of bereavement support for families, providing resources such as counseling services and support groups. The Wilmot Bereavement Group offers a monthly meeting for families to share their grief experiences, facilitated by professionals. Additionally, the program hosts memorial services to honor those who have passed, creating a supportive community among families and the care team.

This multifaceted palliative medicine fellowship at Strong Memorial Hospital aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders in the field, dedicated to providing holistic and patient-centered care for individuals and families facing serious health challenges.