Boston Children’s Hospital Program

The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Training Program at Boston Children’s Hospital offers a comprehensive approach to educating future child and adolescent psychiatrists. The program focuses on equipping fellows with the necessary experiences to manage complex psychiatric cases effectively. By the end of their training, fellows are expected to practice independently, having developed the skills to reduce suffering and enhance the quality of life for children and families experiencing mental illness 1.

The curriculum includes a structured two-year fellowship following a minimum of three years in general psychiatry. In the first year, fellows undertake significant rotations across various clinical settings, allowing them to develop core competencies quickly. The second year grants substantial discretionary time, during which fellows can explore their interests within the field of child and adolescent psychiatry 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The first year comprises rotations in several clinical settings, including:

• Inpatient Psychiatry Service (IPS): Fellows learn to manage children and adolescents with severe psychiatric illnesses requiring acute care. This rotation emphasizes teamwork within a multidisciplinary setting, providing comprehensive exposure to patient care 8.
• Emergency Psychiatry Service (EPS): Fellows stabilize patients in crisis and promote healthy coping strategies, focusing on appropriate follow-up care 8.
• Psychiatry Consultation Service (PCS): This rotation challenges fellows to refine their diagnostic and treatment planning skills in a less-restrictive environment 8.
• Outpatient Psychiatry Services (OPS): Fellows conduct comprehensive evaluations and formulate evidence-based treatment plans, engaging in various clinics, including addiction services, ADHD assessments, and community health programs 8.

The second year allows for increased autonomy, with fellows able to select from a range of electives tailored to their interests. Popular elective areas include Pain Management, Sleep Medicine, and Child Life Services, among others 8.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship supports fellows in engaging with research, particularly in programs like the Tommy Fuss Center and the Trauma and Community Resilience Center. These initiatives focus on developmental pathways to neuropsychiatric disorders and the adjustment of youth and families post-trauma, respectively 8.

Diversity and Inclusion

Boston Children’s Hospital places a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion within its training environment. The institution works to enhance access to care, promote a diverse workforce, and ensure a welcoming atmosphere for all. Commitment to equity is ongoing, featuring efforts to improve health outcomes across different demographic groups 2.

Application Process

Applicants must be graduates of American or international medical schools, have completed a general psychiatry program, and must have passed USMLE Steps 1 through 3. Requirements also include ECFMG certification for foreign graduates. The fellowship accepts applications via the ERAS platform, and those selected will participate in virtual interviews 4.

Visa Support

The fellowship program sponsors J1 visas for foreign medical graduates seeking training in the United States, ensuring that international applicants can comply with US immigration laws while applying for the program 4.

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The program is considered competitive, welcoming both MD and DO graduates, as well as IMG applicants who meet the specified prerequisites. Special application considerations include a maximum of one failed USMLE step 4.

Salary and Benefits

Fellows receive a competitive salary based on postgraduate year (PGY IV: $86,118; PGY V: $92,103; PGY VI: $99,194). Additional benefits include malpractice insurance, health coverage, moving stipends, and childcare assistance. Fellows can also access educational resources for attending conferences and receive wellness support measures to minimize burnout 6.