Cambridge Health Alliance Program
Location:
Cambridge, MASpecialty:
Geriatric psychiatryACGME Code:
4072431058The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Cambridge Health Alliance is a one-year, ACGME-accredited training program designed specifically for PGY5 psychiatrists. This fellowship program offers a rich educational experience, combining clinical training, didactic learning, and research opportunities tailored for the unique needs of geriatric patients.
The training year is structured to provide fellows with comprehensive clinical exposure through rotating in various settings. These include the Geriatric Psychiatry Inpatient Unit at Everett Hospital, outpatient services in the Geriatric Service Outpatient Clinic, participation in the CHA PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), nursing homes, and home visitation programs. Fellows work alongside a multidisciplinary team, which enhances their learning and skill development within a community-based health system 1.
Curriculum
The clinical curriculum divides into two main blocks, focusing on both inpatient and outpatient services. In the inpatient setting, fellows work within a 22-bed Geriatric Specialty Unit at Everett Hospital, where they are responsible for managing psychopharmacological treatments and conducting individual psychotherapy, if appropriate. They also coordinate aftercare plans and lead family meetings 3.
Outpatient services' rotation allows fellows to engage with elderly patients through the CHA All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) program and at Hebrew SeniorLife Nursing Home. This exposure is pivotal, as fellows manage therapeutic treatments and psychopharmacology for a diverse caseload of elderly patients living in the community 3.
Didactic Training
The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship emphasizes a robust didactic component. Fellows participate in a Geriatric Seminar Series at Hebrew SeniorLife, delivering lectures on psychiatric and medical disorders in older adults. Additionally, the program hosts a Medical Psychiatry Seminar that fosters teaching and presentation skills among fellows 3.
Research Opportunities
Fellows engage in research guided by faculty who specialize in mental health services. They are encouraged to pursue academic projects, leading to publications in renowned journals and presentations at national conferences 6. The research topics often focus on pressing issues such as the challenges of agitation in dementia and the identification of depression in primary care settings for older adults.
Benefits
The program offers comprehensive benefits including a competitive salary, a professional education stipend of $2,200 annually, full health and dental insurance coverage, and reimbursement for educational expenses. Additional perks include options for childcare, on-call meals, and disability insurance 2.
Application Process
To apply for the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship, candidates must have completed their PGY4 year in psychiatry. The application requires submission of a personal statement, CV, and three letters of reference, one from the residency training director. This program does not participate in the National Resident Match Program 5.
Visa Sponsorship
The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Cambridge Health Alliance offers visa sponsorship support, primarily catering to the requirements of J1 and H1B visas for international medical graduates. This makes the program IMG-friendly, accommodating a diverse applicant pool with various backgrounds and experiences.
Competitiveness
Due to its academic affiliation with renowned institutions and focus on unique geriatric care, the fellowship is competitive. However, it welcomes applications from both US graduates and international medical graduates, making it an attractive option for diverse candidates 4.
Website
Director
Mariko Shimizu, MDStaff psychiatrist, fellowship director Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$82,773First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Cambridge, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Cambridge, MA
Cambridge, MA is a vibrant city known for its intellectual environment due to the presence of top universities like Harvard and MIT. Here are some key aspects of living in Cambridge:
Safety and Crime Rate:
Cambridge has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the United States, making it a safe place to live.
Fun Activities:
Cambridge offers a variety of cultural attractions, historic sites, parks, and a bustling dining scene. Residents can enjoy music venues, art galleries, and diverse culinary experiences.
Climate:
Cambridge experiences all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like biking along the Charles River during the summer and skiing in nearby areas during the winter.
Races and Population:
Cambridge is a diverse city with a mix of different races and cultures. The population includes students, professionals, and families, contributing to a lively community atmosphere.
Education:
With world-class universities in the vicinity, Cambridge provides access to educational resources and a stimulating intellectual environment.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Cambridge is relatively high, especially in terms of housing. However, residents benefit from the city's amenities and proximity to Boston.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: Cultural diversity, intellectual atmosphere, educational opportunities.
Cons: High cost of living, limited parking spaces.
Distance to Nearby Cities:
Cambridge is located just across the Charles River from Boston, about a 15-20 minute drive depending on traffic. Boston offers even more cultural attractions, entertainment options, and dining experiences.
Interview Questions
