Development of a Medical Student Palliative Care Summer Internship

Background: Hospice and Palliative Medicine (HPM) faces a workforce shortage. We implemented an 8-week medical student internship to increase HPM education access. Methods: Between 2023 and 2025, rising second-year U.S. medical students applied to the program. Participants completed an anonymous end-of-program survey and an exit interview conducted by program faculty. Results: Ninety-seven medical students applied, and 10 participated in the program. End of program survey respondents ( n = 9) all strongly agreed that they had a more comprehensive understanding of HPM and the role of the interdisciplinary team. Six (67%) reported a better understanding of research methods, and eight (89%) cited an increased interest in pursuing HPM careers. Exit interviews revealed that the program was overall well received by participants. Discussion: A structured HPM summer internship is an acceptable and feasible way to provide early HPM exposure to medical students. Additional work is needed to assess the program’s impact on long-term career outcomes.