Vanderbilt University Medical Center Program
Location:
Nashville, TNSpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5404714053The Vanderbilt Hospice and Palliative Care Fellowship Program is dedicated to developing leaders in the field of hospice and palliative care who can make significant contributions to their communities and healthcare. This program, which has been operational since 2008, is structured to create capable palliative medicine physicians committed to improving patient care and outcomes. The program is affiliated with notable institutions such as the Vanderbilt Center for Quality Aging and the VA Tennessee Valley Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC).1
Program Overview
The primary mission of the fellowship is to train physicians to be proficient in providing hospice and palliative care. This includes enhancing their abilities in patient care, interdisciplinary leadership, and quality improvement. The program encompasses a one-year clinical curriculum that prepares fellows for roles as consultants and independent providers. These fellows emerge as lifelong learners and educators, possessing abundant knowledge and skills in palliative medicine.1
Program Tracks
Vanderbilt offers several tracks within the fellowship program, allowing for tailored training experiences:
- Clinical Track: A one-year ACGME-accredited clinical palliative medicine fellowship.
- Research Track: This includes a VA Special Fellowship in Advanced Geriatrics, which combines one year of clinical training with two years of advanced research fellowship.
- Quality Improvement Track: Involves one year of clinical fellowship in hospice and palliative medicine, followed by two additional years in the VA Quality Scholars Fellowship Program.
Curriculum
The fellowship curriculum integrates small group learning sessions, hands-on experiential learning, and individualized mentoring. The teaching methodologies follow the principles of adult learning theory, emphasizing guided autonomy and self-awareness. The clinical training is comprehensive, covering various competencies and Entrustable Professional Activities (EPA) established by ACGME.1
The curriculum includes multiple rotations, satisfying all ACGME requirements:
- Inpatient Consultation (VUMC/VA): 6 months
- Inpatient Palliative Care Unit (VUMC): 4 weeks
- Hospice Experience: personal/rental car required
- Long-term Care Rotation (VUMC/VA): 4 weeks
- Pediatric Palliative Care (MCCH): 2 weeks
- Ethics (VUMC): 1 week
- Integrative Medicine (Osher Center): 1 week
- Outpatient Clinic: Weekly half-day session
- Elective: 2 weeks
- Vacation: 3 weeks
Clinical Training Sites
The Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) serves as a key site for the fellowship, providing a tertiary care environment with substantial exposure to palliative medicine. Trainees work closely with an experienced interdisciplinary team and will consult on a significant volume of patients annually, which enhances their learning curve and professional development. Additional clinical sites include:
- The Tennessee Valley Health Care System's VA facilities
- Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital for pediatric palliative care consultations
- Alive Hospice, the largest nonprofit hospice agency in the Nashville area
- Long-term care environments
Educational Experiences and Conferences
Fellows benefit from a variety of educational experiences throughout the fellowship. This includes regular core learning sessions, case conferences, and multidisciplinary conferences focused on communication and ethics. The curriculum also features specialized workshops aimed at addressing key palliative care competencies, maintaining well-being, and enhancing resilience.1
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to have completed an accredited residency program and must submit a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. This rigorous application process ensures that only the most committed candidates are selected for fellowship training. The program encourages diverse applicants, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity within the field of palliative care.1
Visa Support
The fellowship program offers visa sponsorship opportunities for eligible international medical graduates, enabling them to engage in the training provided. This support is crucial for creating a diverse educational environment that enriches the fellowship learning experience.1
Competitiveness
The fellowship is highly competitive, welcoming applicants from both DO and IMG backgrounds. Candidates are encouraged to demonstrate a strong commitment to palliative care, academic excellence, and a genuine interest in making significant impacts in the field.1
Website
Director
Melanie L Skelton, MDProgram Director, Assistant Professor Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Nashville, TN
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Nashville, TN
- Crime Rate and Safety: Nashville has a moderate crime rate, with some areas experiencing higher crime than others. It is important to stay informed about the safety of different neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous live music venues and events throughout the city. There are also parks, museums, and a variety of dining options to explore.
- Climate: Nashville experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and mild winters. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant times of the year.
- Races and Population: Nashville is a diverse city with a mix of different races and cultures. The population is growing steadily due to its popularity as a place to live and work.
- Education: Nashville is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Nashville is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in the US, but housing costs have been increasing in recent years.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like Memphis (about 3 hours drive) and Atlanta (about 4 hours drive) are within a reasonable driving distance from Nashville. Each city offers its own unique attractions and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Rich music and cultural scene, diverse population, moderate cost of living compared to other big cities.
- Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, housing costs are rising, traffic can be congested during peak times.
Interview Questions
