An introductory hospice experience for third-year medical students.

Background: An organized and distinct curriculum in hospice and palliative care education is lacking in most United States medical school programs. Because of this knowledge deficit, physicians are often not able to meet the needs of their terminally ill patients and their families.

Methods: A five-day combined didactic and clinical rotation in hospice and palliative care for third-year medical students was developed and is presented.