Your clinical days will be filled with meaningful patient interactions that span the full spectrum of palliative care. With approximately 70% of your current outpatient panel consisting of active cancer patients, you'll develop deep expertise in oncology-related symptom management while having the flexibility to expand into other serious illnesses as the program grows. Unlike high-volume practices where patient interactions feel rushed, or academic settings where complex cases dominate, this practice offers an ideal patient load that allows for thorough, compassionate care while maintaining professional satisfaction.
The patient population reflects the diverse and vibrant Coachella Valley community, with many patients traveling from throughout the region to receive specialized care at Eisenhower Health. You'll typically see 4-5 patients during each half-day outpatient clinic, with new patient visits allocated a full hour and follow-up appointments scheduled for 30-45 minutes. This generous scheduling ensures you have adequate time to address complex symptom management, facilitate difficult conversations, and coordinate comprehensive care plans without feeling pressured by productivity demands.
Your inpatient work will average over 50 consults monthly, with penetration currently around 2.5-3% of hospital admissions – offering tremendous growth potential as mature programs typically see 7-10% penetration rates. The referral pattern spans all hospital services, though the majority come from the robust hematology/oncology program that processes 200-250 new patient referrals monthly. You'll work closely with hospitalists, intensivists, and specialty services, building relationships that enhance both patient care and professional satisfaction.
The program's philosophy emphasizes early intervention and comprehensive symptom management rather than end-of-life care exclusively. This approach creates more rewarding patient relationships and better outcomes, as you'll be helping patients navigate treatment decisions, manage symptoms, and maintain quality of life throughout their illness journey. The team maintains clear boundaries with hospice services – while you may occasionally continue as attending physician for patients you've been following, the primary focus remains on active palliative care rather than hospice management.
This clinical environment offers the perfect blend of intellectual challenge and emotional reward, allowing you to practice the full scope of palliative medicine while building lasting relationships with patients, families, and colleagues throughout the Coachella Valley.