Medical school covers anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and more — but little on fundraising. Yet physicians often face questions from patients and family members who want to know how they can contribute to boost research.

To arm physicians with the tools to best talk with potential donors, the Gift Planning Department offers philanthropic training for health professionals. These include a workshop that unites development and medical staff members to discuss appropriate fundraising.

About 50 development officers and physicians participated in “Insight into Medical Philan-thropy,” which was held at the medical center in 2010.

“Of course, first and foremost, City of Hope is here to get people better,” said Rick Leonard, associate vice president for gift planning. “At the same time, when patients ask about giving we want our doctors to feel more comfortable talking about their research, and the important role that patient support can play in that research. We see faculty members as integral to the success of our Power of Hope campaign and future fundraising.”

Participants included representatives from institutions such as Scripps Health Foundation, the University of Utah and the University of California, San Francisco. Feedback was positive, and City of Hope may host similar sessions in the future.

Faculty members interested in learning more about philanthropy are encouraged to contact Leonard at ext. 27218.

Said Arti Hurria, M.D., associate professor in the Department of Medical Oncology & Therapeutics Research and director of the Cancer and Aging Research Program: “The seminar taught us strategies to allow our patients to partner in helping to achieve our research goals.”