University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Program
Location:
Houston, TXSpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5404814108Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship Overview
The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth offers a one-year clinical fellowship designed to prepare trainees for successful careers in hospice and palliative medicine. The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and meets the requirements for board certification in the field. With four fellowship positions available each year, the program emphasizes the acquisition of a broad range of clinical skills and medical knowledge necessary for palliative care practitioners.1
Mission and Goals
The mission of the program is to develop competent palliative care specialists by providing robust clinical training and comprehensive knowledge about the pathophysiology and treatment principles of various diseases commonly encountered in palliative settings. The training incorporates a strong emphasis on developing high-level clinical skills that are essential in academic, inpatient, or outpatient practices.1
Eligibility and Application Process
All applicants must have completed three years of an ACGME-accredited residency before the fellowship start date. Valid specialties for sub-specialization in hospice and palliative medicine include family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, psychiatry, and several others. The program accepts applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and participates in the National Resident Match Program (NRMP). Importantly, the program only sponsors J1 visas and does not accept H1B visas.7
Competitiveness
The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship is considered highly competitive, attracting candidates from various backgrounds including both domestic and international medical graduates (IMGs). Candidates with a strong commitment to palliative care and relevant clinical experience are particularly well-regarded.7
Curriculum and Rotations
The fellowship program is structured around significant clinical rotations across various healthcare settings. Key rotations include:
- Memorial Hermann – TMC – Palliative Service: 3 months in a high-acuity consult service that provides comprehensive care for patients with a variety of diagnoses.
- Lyndon B. Johnson Geriatric/Palliative Service: 3 months on a combined consult service in collaboration with oncology specialists.
- Pediatric Palliative Care: 0.5 months, with options to rotate through multiple esteemed institutions.
- MD Anderson Cancer Center: 1 month focused on palliative care unit management and outpatient care.
- AccentCare Memorial Hermann Hospice: 2.5 months involving home visits and hospice management.
- Chronic Pain & Addiction Medicine: 1 month integrating care for chronic pain and addiction
- Palliative Medicine Clinic: Continuous experience in outpatient clinics throughout the fellowship.
- Elective Rotation: 1 month allowing fellows to pursue additional interests or specialties.
This ensures a comprehensive exposure to different facets of palliative medicine.8
Learning Opportunities
The program emphasizes educational advancement through various forms of learning opportunities. Weekly webinars cover critical topics, and monthly case presentations foster hands-on learning. The fellows also participate in the Texas Consortium of Hospice and Palliative Medicine's Journal Club, further promoting collaboration with peers from other fellowship programs. Monthly didactics include modules on self-care, quality improvement, and scholarly activity development.6
Training Sites
The fellowship provides a diverse range of training sites, including:
- Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center: A leading facility providing extensive services across numerous specialties.
- Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital: A verified Level III trauma center offering comprehensive medical services.
- MD Anderson Cancer Center: Renowned globally for excellence in cancer care.
- Texas Children’s Hospital: Specializing in pediatric medicine, including palliative care.9
Fellow Support and Resources
The program offers various resources to fellows, including access to library resources, graduate medical education offices, and social media for networking. Fellows are empowered to develop leadership and collaborative skills essential for a successful career in hospice and palliative medicine.5
Life in Houston
Houston is a vibrant city characterized by its cultural diversity, affordability, and extensive services. The city is home to the world's largest medical center, creating an ideal atmosphere for medical fellows to thrive. Cultural opportunities abound, along with various recreational activities that support a well-balanced lifestyle for fellows and their families while they pursue their professional aspirations.8
Website
Director
Caroline A Ha, MDAssociate Professor, Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, UTHSCH Appointed Since July 2017Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$74,888First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
3Location
Houston, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Houston, TX
Houston, TX, is a diverse and vibrant city with a lot to offer. Here is some information to consider:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Houston is a big city with varying neighborhoods. It's always advisable to research specific areas for safety ratings before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Houston offers a wide range of cultural attractions, restaurants, parks, and museums. The city is also known for its sports teams and outdoor activities.
- Climate: Houston has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity levels.
- Races and Population: Houston's population is very diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural landscape.
- Education: Houston has several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for learning and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Houston is generally lower than in many other major U.S. cities. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Houston is relatively close to other major cities like Austin (about 2.5 to 3 hours by car) and San Antonio (about 3 to 3.5 hours by car). Both cities offer their own unique attractions and are great for weekend getaways.
Overall, living in Houston can offer a mix of urban amenities, cultural experiences, and diverse communities. However, it's essential to consider factors like safety, weather, and specific living costs before making a decision.
Interview Questions
