Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Program at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) offers a comprehensive training experience designed to develop exceptional specialists in the care of elderly patients with psychiatric disorders. This fellowship builds upon the established foundation of the Adult Psychiatry Residency Program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and integrates a rich array of clinical experiences, research opportunities, and mentorship.

Fellowship Curriculum

The curriculum of the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship is structured to ensure a deep engagement with the complexities of geriatric mental health. The fellowship typically spans one year and focuses on advanced clinical training that encompasses diagnostic assessments, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and interdisciplinary collaboration in various health care settings. Fellows participate in didactic sessions that cover topics such as dementia, depression, anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia, tailored specifically to the geriatric population, balancing both medical and psychiatric perspectives.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows rotate through several diverse clinical settings, enhancing their exposure and experience in treating older adults. These rotations often include inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient geriatric psychiatry clinics, nursing homes, memory care facilities, and community health services. Each setting provides unique learning opportunities about the multifaceted needs of elderly patients, including the nuances in psychopharmacological treatment, behavioral interventions, and family dynamics.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship, encouraging fellows to engage in projects related to geriatric psychiatry, health disparities, and innovative treatment modalities. Fellows are encouraged to collaborate with faculty engaged in high-impact research, including the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice and the National Center for PTSD. Dedicated time is allocated for fellows to develop and pursue individual research interests, culminating in opportunities to present findings at national conferences.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at DHMC is distinguished by its commitment to the integration of advocacy and education to not only advance clinical skills but also to address systemic healthcare inequities impacting older adults. Fellows participate in residency training that emphasizes social determinants of health, including access to care for underrepresented populations.

Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty involved in the fellowship are recognized experts in the field of geriatric psychiatry, offering fellows personalized mentorship and guidance throughout their training. The collaborative environment fosters close relationships between fellows and faculty, promoting knowledge sharing and professional development.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program offers J-1 Visa sponsorship for international medical graduates seeking to train in the United States. There are no strict graduation year cut-offs, and while prior U.S. clinical experience is preferred, it is not mandatory. Fellows are encouraged to inquire about specific application details during the recruitment process.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship is noted for being competitive; however, it is known to be welcoming to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including international medical graduates (IMGs). The program is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and actively encourages individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.

Resident Well-Being and Community Life

Dartmouth-Hitchcock ensures a robust support system for fellows, promoting wellness through various initiatives. Access to fitness facilities and opportunities for outdoor activities are readily available, reflecting the program’s commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The Upper Valley community offers a blend of recreational activities, cultural events, and access to nature, contributing to an enriching living experience outside of clinical responsibilities.

In summary, the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Program at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center prepares clinicians to excel in a critical field of mental health, imbued with a strong ethical commitment to service, advocacy, and community well-being.