Postgraduate training in palliative medicine: the experience of the Sydney Institute of Palliative Medicine

Abstract
The experience of the Sydney Institute of Palliative Medicine (Australia) in providing training positions in palliative medicine for around 70 doctors is outlined. The history, development and the key characteristics of the training programme, as well as the nature and range of trainees and their outcome are discussed. Strengths and weaknesses of such a programme are appraised and strategic directions for the future enunciated.