OHSU Multiple Sclerosis Center Health Professions Training Program

Outdorrs group photo of members of the MS Center Health Professions Training Program on a sunny day
Directors of the MS Health Professions Training Program, Drs. Hollen and Yadav, with MS faculty and clinical staff including MS nurse and medical assistant

Program description 

The OHSU MS Center has a long tradition of providing world class educational opportunities for the next generation of MS health care professionals. We now would like to extend a unique training opportunity focused on health professionals interested in MS care. This innovative, mentored, hands on program aims to provide a practical learning experience for health care professionals, including naturopathic physicians, nurses, medical assistants, social workers, physical and occupational therapists.

Our goal is to improve the care and support for people with MS by enhancing the clinical education of MS care providers. We aim to promote best practices in MS care throughout the pacific northwest. 

Key information

  • This training program is for individuals with basic qualification in naturopathic medicine, nursing, medical assistance/physician assistant, physical or occupational therapy, social work or other health professions who wish to obtain mentored clinical and/or research training in MS and related autoimmune disorders. 
  • One 4-8 week-long course available that includes in-person and virtual training with the OHSU MS Center.
  • Stipend/scholarship may be available to eligible applicants. 
  • Training will take place in person at OHSU in Portland, OR.
  • Application period: Now through August 1, 2024. 
  • Training begins September 1, 2024. 

Eligibility

  • Applicants must have a professional qualification (with relevant degree or certification) in naturopathic medicine, nursing, medical assistance, physical or occupational therapy, social work, or other health profession.
  • Applicants should have interest in working with patients living with MS and Neuroimmunology diagnosis.
  • Preference for applicants with interest in working with diverse populations. 
  • Preference for applicants residing in the pacific northwest.
  • Flexible training hours (anticipating around 20 hours per week).

Synopsis of training plan 

  • In-person clinical rotations with MS neurologists, related subspecialists, and health professionals at OHSU in Portland, OR.
  • Weekly virtual didactics with MS faculty and staff.

Reporting 

  • At the conclusion of the training period the successful applicant will provide a brief report of their training experience, including what they learned during the time in the program.
  • Applicants will also complete a post training survey to evaluate the program and give feedback to OHSU staff and program developers.

Application Process

  • The OHSU MS Health Professions Training will be awarded in a competitive review process conducted by members of the OHSU MS Center.
  • In addition to a completed application, we will require a resume/CV and two letters from professional references.
  • Letters from professional references should describe the candidates training, work ethic, and patient care attributes.

Application

Applications will be evaluated based on:

  1. Candidate’s qualifications, including education, previous employment history, current employment responsibilities, self-stated goals of training, and an evaluation of the candidate’s career plans.
  2. The quality of letters of endorsement from the professional references.

Contact

For questions and further information, please contact Chris Hollen, M.D.