MD in Palliative Medicine at Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Udupi, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Palliative Medicine at Manipal Academy of Higher Education Udupi?
This Palliative Medicine program at Manipal Academy of Higher Education focuses on holistic care for patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses. With increasing chronic diseases in India, the demand for specialists who can alleviate suffering and improve quality of life is critical, making this program highly relevant for comprehensive patient support. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to patient-centric care.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for MBBS graduates with a completed internship, seeking to specialize in a compassionate and growing field of medicine. It suits those passionate about relieving suffering, enhancing quality of life, and supporting patients through complex medical journeys. It''''s also for medical professionals looking to transition into a niche but highly impactful area of healthcare, focusing on holistic patient management.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as Palliative Care Physicians in hospitals, hospices, community care settings, and academic institutions across India. Entry-level salaries range from INR 6-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities include leading palliative care units, contributing to policy, and specializing in pain management or end-of-life care, aligning with the growing national healthcare needs.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Core Palliative Principles- (Year 1)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, journal clubs, and clinical rounds. Focus on understanding the philosophy of palliative care, effective communication, and basic symptom management. Utilize MAHE''''s library resources and online modules for foundational knowledge, preparing for early patient interactions.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Seminars, Journal Clubs, MAHE Library Resources, Online Medical Modules
Career Connection
Develops foundational knowledge and clinical reasoning crucial for all future palliative care roles.
Develop Empathetic Communication Skills- (Year 1)
Engage in role-playing and direct observation of senior residents during patient and family interactions. Seek feedback on communication techniques, particularly for breaking bad news and discussing end-of-life care. This is crucial for building trust and managing sensitive situations, laying the groundwork for clinical excellence.
Tools & Resources
Role-playing exercises, Direct observation in clinics, Feedback from seniors/faculty, Communication Skills Workshops
Career Connection
Enhances patient rapport, family satisfaction, and interdisciplinary team cohesion, vital for a successful palliative care physician.
Build Interdisciplinary Team Understanding- (Year 1)
Shadow different team members (nurses, social workers, physiotherapists) during clinical postings. Understand their roles and contributions to holistic patient care. Participate actively in team meetings to learn collaborative decision-making, essential for integrated palliative care delivery.
Tools & Resources
Interdisciplinary Team Meetings, Clinical Shadowing, Case Conferences
Career Connection
Fosters effective teamwork, a cornerstone of comprehensive palliative care, and prepares for leadership in team-based settings.
Intermediate Stage
Master Advanced Symptom Control- (Year 2)
Focus on managing complex pain syndromes, refractory symptoms, and palliative care emergencies during clinical rotations. Utilize specialized textbooks and online guidelines (e.g., WHO guidelines) for evidence-based practice. Present case studies regularly to refine diagnostic and therapeutic skills, crucial for effective patient management.
Tools & Resources
Specialized Palliative Care Textbooks, WHO Palliative Care Guidelines, Clinical Case Presentations, Departmental Grand Rounds
Career Connection
Develops expertise in critical clinical skills, making graduates highly competent and sought-after specialists in complex cases.
Engage in Ethical Dilemma Discussions- (Year 2)
Actively participate in ethics committee meetings, clinical discussions on advance care planning, and informed consent. Read relevant bioethics literature and case law in the Indian context. Develop a strong ethical framework to navigate challenging situations, preparing for leadership roles in patient advocacy.
Tools & Resources
Hospital Ethics Committee Meetings, Bioethics Literature, Case Discussions with Faculty
Career Connection
Cultivates ethical leadership and decision-making abilities, essential for navigating complex patient care and policy formulation.
Explore Palliative Care in Diverse Settings- (Year 2)
Seek opportunities for rotations in various palliative care settings, such as home care, hospice, and pediatric palliative care units. This exposure will broaden clinical experience, understand different models of care delivery in India, and identify potential sub-specialization interests.
Tools & Resources
Rotations in Home Care, Hospice Facilities, Pediatric Palliative Care Units, Community Outreach Programs
Career Connection
Broadens career horizons and allows for specialization in specific areas of palliative care, increasing employability in varied healthcare models.
Advanced Stage
Lead Clinical Teams and Mentorship- (Year 3)
Take on increasing responsibility in managing patient caseloads and supervising junior residents. Act as a mentor, guiding new trainees through clinical challenges and ethical considerations. This leadership experience is vital for future roles as consultants and educators in palliative care.
Tools & Resources
Supervision of Junior Residents, Leadership Roles in Clinical Rounds, Mentorship Programs
Career Connection
Prepares for leadership and supervisory roles in hospitals, academic institutions, and palliative care organizations.
Execute a Robust Dissertation Project- (Year 3)
Dedicate significant time to the dissertation, focusing on a relevant research question in Indian palliative care. Collaborate with faculty mentors, utilize statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), and aim for publication in peer-reviewed journals. A strong research profile enhances career prospects and contributes to the field.
Tools & Resources
Faculty Mentors, Statistical Software (SPSS, R), Research Workshops, Peer-Reviewed Journals
Career Connection
Develops critical research skills, enhancing academic profile and opening pathways to research-oriented positions and contributing to evidence-based practice.
Prepare for Exit Examinations and Career Planning- (Year 3)
Systematically revise the entire curriculum, focusing on past examination patterns and clinical viva scenarios. Attend mock exams and grand rounds. Simultaneously, network with alumni and explore career opportunities, including fellowship programs, in academic, government, or private sectors within India.
Tools & Resources
Past Exam Papers, Mock Viva Sessions, Alumni Networking Events, Career Counseling Services
Career Connection
Ensures successful completion of the MD program and facilitates informed career choices, leading to desirable placements and professional growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- MBBS degree recognized by National Medical Commission (NMC). Should have completed compulsory rotating internship. Should have permanent registration with NMC/State Medical Council.
Duration: 3 years
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: Continuous formative assessment, logbook, seminars, journal clubs, assignments, clinical evaluations, External: University Examination comprising Theory (4 papers, 100 marks each), Practical/Clinical Examination (long cases, short cases, viva voce, Objective Structured Clinical Examination - OSCE), and Dissertation evaluation.