University of Texas M D Anderson Cancer Center/Children’s Cancer Hospital Program
Location:
Houston, TXSpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5404812124The Hospice and Palliative Medicine program at the University of Texas M D Anderson Cancer Center and Children’s Cancer Hospital offers an innovative and comprehensive approach to the care of pediatric patients facing life-limiting conditions. The program is embedded in one of the world’s leading cancer centers, emphasizing a multidisciplinary strategy aimed not just at treating the disease but also at enhancing quality of life for patients and their families.
Program Overview
The program specializes in providing specialized care including pain management, counseling, and support services tailored to the unique needs of children and their families. This includes addressing the psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions of care. The program acknowledges the complexities involved in pediatric cancer treatment, particularly concerning end-of-life care decisions, making it a critical resource for families during distressing times.
1Curriculum and Training
Residents in the program will engage in a curriculum that balances clinical training and research activities. They will receive instruction from leading experts in palliative care, gaining competency in advanced pain and symptom management and the ethical aspects of end-of-life decision-making. Training includes rotations that ensure comprehensive exposure to inpatient, outpatient, and community settings.
2Hands-on experiences are critical to this program and are supported by a robust academic curriculum. Residents will have the opportunity to attend lectures, case discussions, and workshops that cover a range of topics related to hospice and palliative care, including communication skills that are essential for interacting with children and their families.
3Rotations
Residents will participate in diverse rotations that may include:
- Inpatient palliative care services
- Consultation services within oncology and pediatric units
- Community-based palliative care settings
- Focused experiences in interdisciplinary team settings
By immersing residents in different care environments, the program ensures they develop a wide range of skills necessary for effective communication and compassionate care.
4Research Opportunities
The program actively encourages involvement in research aimed at improving care models and management strategies in pediatric palliative care. Residents will have the opportunity to participate in ongoing clinical trials and contribute to research projects that seek to enhance patient outcomes. By engaging with faculty on innovative research, residents can ensure evidence-based practices are integrated into their clinical work.
5Unique Aspects
Key features of the program include a family-centered approach, prioritizing the experiences and needs of both patients and their families. Emotional and spiritual care dimensions are integral parts of the training, emphasizing that effective hospice care encompasses more than just medical intervention.
6Training Sites
Training occurs primarily within the Children’s Cancer Hospital, which provides a safe environment equipped with state-of-the-art technology to support patient-centered care. The facility includes private patient rooms designed to accommodate family presence, contributing to a comforting atmosphere.
7Visa Support
The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, primarily supporting J-1 and H-1B visa types. This facilitates opportunities for diverse candidates to join the program and enrich the learning environment through varied cultural perspectives in patient care.
8Competitiveness of the Program
This program is known to be highly competitive, making it essential for applicants to highlight relevant experiences and demonstrate a clear commitment to hospice and palliative care. The program is welcoming to both DO and international medical graduates, reflecting a progressive stance on diversity and inclusion within the field.
9Application Requirements
Specific application requirements may include a maximum number of failed STEP exams, recent graduation timeline, and relevant experience in palliative care settings. Applicants should carefully review these criteria to ensure preparedness for the challenges of the program.
10Website
- 1 .Children's Cancer Hospital | MD Anderson Cancer Center
- 2 .Appointments and Referrals | MD Anderson Cancer Center
- 3 .How To Help Kids With Cancer | MD Anderson Cancer Center
- 4 .Pediatric Doctors | MD Anderson Cancer Center
- 5 .Our Facilities | MD Anderson Cancer Center
- 6 .Pediatric Clinical Trials | MD Anderson Cancer Center
Director
Karen M Moody, MDDirector of Pediatric Palliative and Supportive Oncology, Integrative Medicine Appointed Since April 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$72,219First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Houston, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
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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.
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