Tulane University Program

Welcome to the Tulane Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship, a pioneering program in the state of Louisiana, distinguished as the first accredited Hospice and Palliative Medicine (HPM) fellowship in the region. The program thrives on a collaborative approach, uniting an exceptional group of faculty members from prestigious institutions including the University of Alabama, MD Anderson, University of Pittsburgh, Harvard University, and the University of California, San Francisco. This diversity enriches the educational experience available to fellows.

The program offers extensive inpatient and outpatient palliative services through the University Medical Center, which serves as a Level 1 trauma center and a safety-net hospital located in the heart of downtown New Orleans. Additionally, fellows gain valuable experience with the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care system, facilitating a comprehensive exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare needs.

Curriculum and Training

The curriculum is distinctive, integrating a classical ACGME-approved palliative curriculum with innovative elements such as integrative and alternative medicine, narrative medicine, addiction medicine, resilience training, and prison advocacy. Notably, it also includes international palliative rotations developed in partnership with Harvard and UCSF, ensuring that fellows receive a global perspective on palliative care. This multifaceted approach is designed to empower fellows with diverse skills, equipping them to face a wide array of palliative care challenges.

Research Opportunities

Research excellence is a cornerstone of the Tulane HPM Fellowship. Fellows are encouraged to engage in research initiatives that advance the field of palliative care, with access to extensive resources and mentorship from faculty renowned for their contributions to research in hospice and palliative medicine. This commitment to research not only enhances the educational experience but also contributes to the broader medical community.

Unique Aspects of the Program

What sets the Tulane program apart is its innovative educational practices, commitment to diverse patient care, and the rich cultural setting of New Orleans, renowned for its cuisine, musical heritage, and vibrant art scene. This atmosphere not only enriches the personal lives of fellows but also fosters a deeper connection to the community they serve.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The Tulane Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship supports visa applications for international medical graduates. The specific visa types may include J-1 and H-1B visas, accommodating foreign trainees committed to contributing to healthcare in the United States. The program is known to be competitive, welcoming applications from both DOs and IMGs, reflecting a diverse applicant pool and commitment to inclusivity.

Application Requirements

Candidates are expected to meet specific eligibility requirements, which may include completion of residency training in a related field such as Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, or Pediatrics. While there are no explicit limitations on the number of attempts for board exams, a strong clinical background and demonstrated interest in palliative care are highly regarded.1

In summary, the Tulane Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship stands out for its innovative curriculum, comprehensive training experiences, and the unique cultural backdrop of New Orleans. This program is dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders in palliative care through a commitment to educational excellence and compassionate patient-centered care.