Trainee Perceptions of a Competency-Based Mid-Career Fellowship in Hospice And Palliative Medicine.

Abstract

<b><i>Context:</i></b> The time-variable, competency-based mid-career fellowship in Hospice and Palliative Medicine (HPM) is a multicenter pilot program for physicians who want to train in HPM part-time. <b><i>Objectives:</i></b> This study describes the experience of the early cohort of mid-career fellows. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Fellows at the seven sites were surveyed about their perceptions of the program and their confidence in subspecialty skills. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Surveys were sent to 13 fellows and completed by 8. All reported positive experiences with curricula, direct observation, feedback, and cross-site case reviews. Most responses were positive regarding individualized learning plans and case-stimulated reviews. Respondents reported high confidence in 9 of the 13 specialty-specific skills, including communication, caring for dying patients, and pain management. They reported less confidence with psychological and non-pain symptoms, spirituality, and prognostication. Fewer than half indicated that the process for graduation was clear. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Physicians in the competency-based HPM fellowship report a positive experience and high confidence in subspecialty skills.