Creighton University School of Medicine (Omaha) Program

The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Creighton University School of Medicine is a comprehensive training program aimed at developing skilled psychiatrists proficient in diagnosing and treating a diverse range of psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. The program emphasizes the biopsychosocial approach, integrating the understanding of child and adolescent development within various contexts, such as family, school, and community. This method of training is essential for producing well-rounded and capable practitioners.

The fellowship spans two years, with a structured timeline that allows fellows to gain substantial clinical experience. Residents interested in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry can apply during their PG-3 year, with fellowship commencement at the beginning of their PG-4 year. After completing the first year, fellows receive a certificate for their Psychiatry Residency Program, and another upon completing the second year, signifying their participation in the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program. The overall training through both General and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry totals five years, with six fellows enrolled at any time in the program 1.

Program Structure

The program is fully accredited by the Residency Review Committee of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Fellows benefit from multiple training sites, which enhances their clinical exposure and skills development. Weekly didactics are an integral part of the training, providing opportunities for all fellows to engage in shared learning experiences 1.

Clinical Training Sites

Fellows rotate through several key clinical sites that provide a rich array of learning opportunities:

• CHI Health-Immanuel: This facility features a 20-bed inpatient acute care unit for children and adolescents, handling around 500-700 admissions annually. The facility also includes a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) designed for children and adolescents aged 6-17.
• Partial Hospitalization & Intensive Outpatient Treatment: Targeting children and adolescents 5-18 years old, this program aids participants in coping with life stressors through a structured, safe environment.
• Outpatient Clinic: This site treats patients holistically, offering a comprehensive array of mental health services spearheaded by specialty-trained mental health professionals, including psychiatrists who lead a multidisciplinary team 2.
• Creighton University Medical Center - Bergan Mercy: This serves as the primary academic medical center for the School of Medicine and provides fellows with essential consultation-liaison experience.
• Children’s Hospital and Medical Center: This pediatric specialty healthcare center focuses on addressing a broad range of psychiatric needs, including a dedicated program for adolescents grappling with eating disorders.

Application Process and Requirements

For application to the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship, candidates must utilize the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). U.S. medical graduates must have graduated from an LCME-accredited medical school, while international graduates need certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates and demonstrate English proficiency.

Key eligibility criteria include:

• A minimum of three years in General Adult Psychiatry Training from an ACGME-accredited institution.
• Three letters of reference specifically supporting qualifications for child and adolescent psychiatry.
• A current medical license or eligibility to obtain one in Nebraska.
• Completion of USMLE Step 3 or COMLEX Level 3.
• International medical graduates must be eligible for a J-1 visa, as the program does not accept H-1B visas 3.

Unique Program Aspects

The program adopts the Jesuit values of education, emphasizing the cura personalis, or care for the whole person. This philosophy underpins the training received by fellows, focusing on cultivating resilient and reflective clinicians. Fellows receive mentorship focused on navigating systemic pressures in psychiatry, ensuring their own well-being to avoid burnout while providing optimal patient care. A commitment to advocacy is crucial, as the program encourages fellows to engage with community resources aimed at improving mental health services for underserved populations 1.

Competitiveness

Gaining acceptance into the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship is highly competitive. The program seeks candidates with robust clinical training backgrounds and a demonstrated passion for child and adolescent mental health. Previously failed USMLE attempts may hinder candidacy, with preference given to those who have attained a minimum average USMLE score of 200 with no failures 3.