East Tennessee State University/Quillen College of Medicine Program

The Psychiatry Residency Program at East Tennessee State University’s Quillen College of Medicine in Johnson City is committed to training the next generation of psychiatrists through a comprehensive, hands-on approach within various settings. This program emphasizes both clinical excellence and academic rigor to ensure that all residents are well-prepared for their future roles in diverse healthcare environments.

Program Overview

The residency program is designed to produce well-trained psychiatrists competent in working across all sectors, including academic, state, federal, private, and rural settings, or pursuing further sub-specialty training. It boasts a history of accreditation and has been providing outstanding training since 1985.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to provide a robust didactic and clinical apprenticeship. Formal didactics occur on Tuesday afternoons, alongside Grand Rounds presentations, clinical skills assessments, and various core psychiatry topics throughout the residency. The first year focuses on the foundational skills of psychiatric practice, leading to a progressive increase in complexity in the following years with advanced psychotherapy training, child and adolescent psychiatry, and more.

Each year, clinical skills are assessed through examinations and presentations. Residents engage in various rotations, including inpatient psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and multiple outpatient clinics that serve a diverse patient population.

Training Sites

The program includes multiple training facilities, including:

• East Tennessee State University & Quillen College of Medicine: Outpatient medication management and psychotherapy clinics.
• Veterans Administration Medical Center: A full-service hospital providing extensive psychiatric services to veterans.
• Woodridge Hospital: An independent psychiatric hospital offering child, adult, and geriatric inpatient services.
• Johnson City Medical Center: An acute care teaching hospital offering significant exposure to general internal medicine and neurology.
• Frontier Health: An outpatient clinic focusing on community mental health.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages research involvement through the Gwen Fleming Research Laboratory, which supports the development and implementation of research ideas. Collaboration in clinical research is also promoted among residents.

Resident Life and Benefits

Residents are offered a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive salaries, health insurance, leave, and retirement plans. The program fosters a supportive and collegial environment, promoting wellness and collaboration among its members. Additionally, residents engage in various recreational activities provided by the ETSU Center for Physical Activity, which includes access to a gym, pool, and outdoor activities, reflecting the program's commitment to resident well-being.

Application Requirements

The program has specific eligibility criteria for applicants:

• Applicants should apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).
• Bachelor’s degree and medical school transcripts are required.
• USMLE Step 1 (or COMLEX equivalent) must be completed at the time of application, along with Step 2 before starting residency.
• Three letters of recommendation and a personal statement are mandatory.
• International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must have ECFMG certification.
• The program sponsors J-1 visas only.

Competitiveness

This residency program is known to be competitive yet is friendly towards DOs and IMGs. Applicants are assessed holistically, considering their clinical experience and previous educational endeavors.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Notably, the program integrates significant training associated with the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, offering unique exposure to veteran mental health issues. Moreover, residents benefit from a well-rounded training approach that spans several unique specialties, paving the way for diverse career opportunities.