University of Missouri-Columbia Program
Location:
Columbia, MOSpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5402812003The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship at the University of Missouri is a year-long program dedicated to training physician-educators in the field of interdisciplinary palliative care. This fellowship is designed to cultivate outstanding clinicians, teachers, and leaders in hospice and palliative medicine. By developing skills necessary for delivering compassionate and comprehensive care, the program aligns with the university's mission of excellent patient care, education, and scholarship.
1Training Structure
Fellows participate in a structured curriculum that emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to care, thereby enhancing their capability to handle diverse patient needs. Training involves exposure in acute hospital settings, home-based hospice care, outpatient medicine, and long-term care facilities. This variety enables fellows to comprehensively understand the challenges faced by patients and healthcare providers in the field of hospice and palliative medicine.
2Training Sites
During the fellowship, participants gain practical experience in multiple training sites, fostering a robust clinical experience. Key training sites include:
- Compassus
- Ellis Fischel Cancer Center
- Harry S Truman VA
- Lenoir
- The Bluffs
- University Hospital
- Women’s Hospital
These sites provide fellows with the opportunity to work alongside experienced interdisciplinary teams, which are essential for mastering the collaborative aspects of palliative care.
2Research Opportunities
The fellowship program also emphasizes research in hospice and palliative medicine. Fellows are encouraged to engage with innovative studies that aim to improve patient outcomes and advance the field. Research activities are supported by a faculty that includes nationally recognized experts from various clinical departments, ensuring that fellows have access to a wealth of knowledge and mentorship.
1Application Process
Application for the Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship requires submission through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Specific eligibility criteria include the following:
- Fluency in English
- Eligibility for a Missouri Medical License
- Holding a valid ECFMG certificate by January 1
Fellowship candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to hospice and palliative care. Applications must include a personal statement, three letters of recommendation (with at least one from the Residency Director), transcripts, and USMLE or COMLEX scores. A recent photograph is also required. The application deadline is November 1.
3Visa Sponsorship
The program provides support for candidates requiring visa sponsorship. Prospective fellows should obtain the necessary visa prior to the program start date. Specific visa types that the program typically sponsors will be communicated during the application process.
3Competitiveness and Applicant Background
The fellowship program is competitive, attracting a diverse pool of candidates, including both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program is designed to be inclusive and is friendly to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with DO degrees. However, candidates must meet stringent criteria, including a solid academic performance in previous medical education.
3Website
Director
Kevin Craig, MD, MSPHFellowship Program Director & Professor of Family & Community Medicine Appointed Since October 2018Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$71,121First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Columbia, MO
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Columbia, MO
- Crime Rate and Safety: Columbia has a slightly higher crime rate than the national average, with property crime being more common than violent crime. However, overall, it is considered a relatively safe city.
- Fun Activities: Columbia offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, biking, and water sports at nearby lakes. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, music festivals, and diverse dining options.
- Climate: Columbia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant.
- Races and Population: The population of Columbia is diverse, with a mix of races and ethnicities. The city has a university town vibe due to the presence of the University of Missouri.
- Education: Columbia is known for its strong public school system and higher education institutions like the University of Missouri, providing educational opportunities for residents of all ages.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Columbia is reasonable compared to national averages, with affordable housing options and lower transportation costs.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Columbia is centrally located in Missouri and is within a 2-hour drive from major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City. Both cities offer a wide range of cultural, entertainment, and dining options.
- Pros: Vibrant arts and cultural scene, diverse dining options, reasonable cost of living, and proximity to larger cities.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate than the national average, hot summers, and cold winters.
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