OHSU Multiple Sclerosis Center Health Professions Training Program

Program description 

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

Our goal is to enhance 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 allied health professions who wish to obtain mentored clinical and/or research training in MS and related autoimmune disorders.  
  • One 4 to 12-week long course available that includes in-person training with OHSU MS Center.
  • Stipends/scholarships may be available to eligible applicants. 
  • Training will take place in person at OHSU in Portland, OR. 
  • Application period: Now through July 1, 2024 
  • Training begins August 1, 2024  

Eligibility

  • Applicants must have a professional qualification (with relevant degree or certification) in naturopathic medicine, nursing, medical assistance, physical therapy, social work or other allied health profession. 
  • Applicants should have an interest in working with patients living with MS and Neuroimmunology diagnoses.
  • Preference for applicants with an 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 allied 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 on their training experience and what they learned during their 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 Center Allied Health Professional Training Program position will be awarded in a competitive review process conducted by members of the OHSU MS Center. 
  • In addition to a completed application, we require a resume/CV and two letters from professional references.
  • Letters from professional references should describe the candidate’s training, work ethic and patient care attributes.

Applications will be evaluated based on: 

  • 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
  • Quality of letters of endorsement from the professional references 

Contact

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