University of Oklahoma College of Medicine Program

The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship Program at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine is designed to equip fellows with the skills necessary for delivering high-quality palliative care to both children and adults. The program aims to create an educational environment that emphasizes interdisciplinary care, fostering a comprehensive understanding of palliative medicine, which graduates can apply in various settings including ambulatory or subspecialty care.

Founded in partnership with the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System, the fellowship has been active since its establishment and is integrated within the Section of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine. It provides a unique training experience through a well-structured program that combines practical and theoretical learning across multiple healthcare environments.

Curriculum and Training Structure

The fellowship spans one year and accepts two fellows annually. Training locations include OU Health, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, and the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System, all situated within a four-block radius for easy accessibility.

The curriculum encompasses a mix of clinical practice and educational review tailored for the Hospice and Palliative Medicine Board Certification. Fellows will engage in various areas such as supportive care services in oncology, palliative medicine consultative care, community hospice care, and pediatric palliative care.

A unique aspect of the fellowship is the call rotation schedule, which involves shared duties with geriatrics. Fellows will participate in 13 weeks of call, primarily from home after hours, with occasional in-person rounding with an attending on weekends.

Application Information

The application process focuses on creating a comprehensive understanding between the program and the applicants. Interviews will be conducted virtually, enabling a flexible and thoughtful interaction. To apply, candidates must register with the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and submit their applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). A complete application should include the following components: ERAS Common Application Form (CAF), medical school transcript, a personal statement, USMLE or COMLEX scores, Dean's letter, and at least two letters of recommendation. Importantly, candidates must have passed the USMLE or COMLEX Step 3 before applying.

For international medical graduates (IMGs), the program is open and encourages applications. Notably, the University of Oklahoma sponsors only the J-1 Visa for international trainees. Applicants must complete a prior residency program and have relevant clinical experience.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship offers competitive salary structures for fellows in different training years. For the fiscal year 2024-2025, the salary for PGY4 is $69,299, for PGY5 is $72,941, and for PGY6 is $75,721. Additional benefits include medical and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, vacation days, sick leave, and educational leave, among others.

Research and Education

Fellows are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities, with opportunities for submitting abstracts and attending national conferences; expenses for which will be covered by the program if a submission is made. The educational curriculum also systematically prepares fellows for the complexities of clinical practice, ensuring they are well-versed in the latest advancements and standards in the field of hospice and palliative medicine.

Program Competitiveness

The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship at the University of Oklahoma is noted for being competitive; however, it is considered friendly towards both DO and IMG candidates. The program evaluates applicants holistically, emphasizing a candidate's clinical skills and experiences alongside exam scores.

Program Culture and Support

In addition to rigorous academic training, the fellowship fosters a supportive environment where prospective fellows can interact with current fellows and faculty. Opportunities are provided for applicants to discuss the program and its offerings in greater detail, assisting them in making informed decisions about their career paths in palliative care.