Eastern Connecticut Health Network Program

The Psychiatry Residency Program at Eastern Connecticut Health Network is dedicated to training future leaders in academic psychiatry who are committed to providing evidence-based patient-centered care, engaging in critical thinking, conducting meaningful research, and mentoring the next generation of psychiatrists. The program prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, which is reflected both in its recruitment practices and in the care provided to a diverse patient population. Residents are trained to offer compassionate and culturally sensitive care, with a focus on humanistic principles in all they do. 1

The program fosters a close-knit environment, treating residents like family by promoting regular interactions through meetings, retreats, and events throughout the year. Faculty mentors are actively involved in the personal and professional growth of residents, ensuring they receive guidance and support throughout their training. The program also emphasizes the importance of emotional and physical wellbeing for residents, creating a supportive culture that encourages open communication and collaboration. 1

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to ensure comprehensive training across four years of residency with a variety of clinical experiences designed to enhance residents' knowledge and skills in psychiatry. The first-year (PGY1) includes rotations in Addiction Psychiatry, Adult Inpatient Psychiatry, and Medicine among others, totaling 13 blocks. The second-year (PGY2) focuses on Adult Inpatient, Child & Adolescent, and Emergency Psychiatry, while also allowing for elective experiences. The PGY3 year includes outpatient experiences in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Community Psychiatry, emphasizing continuity of care and the management of psychiatric disorders in different settings. Finally, the PGY4 year allows for advanced training with considerable elective opportunities. 1

Elective Rotation Options

Residents have access to a rich array of elective rotations which includes, but is not limited to, Addiction Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Neuromodulation, and Pain Medicine among others. These electives offer residents the opportunity to tailor their training experiences based on their specific interests and career goals. 1

Benefits and Support

The residency program offers a comprehensive benefits package, which includes reimbursement for the COMLEX 3 or USMLE Step 3 examination fees, an educational stipend of $750 per year, exam and board reimbursement, and provisions for moonlighting opportunities. Residents receive an iPhone with unlimited data, a laptop, and meal stipends in addition to participation in various resident events, including holiday parties and graduation celebrations. The salary progression starts at $68,500 for the first year and increases annually.1

Application Criteria

To apply for the Psychiatry Residency Program, candidates must meet specific requirements: a USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK score of 225 or above, or a COMLEX Level 1 and 2 score of 450 or higher for DO candidates. Applicants should be within four years of their year of graduation, and if older, must demonstrate significant clinical or scholarly experience in psychiatry, preferably within a U.S. clinical environment. A total of three letters of recommendation are required, and the program does accept J1 visa sponsorship while applicants are limited to no attempts on past COMLEX or USMLE exams. 1

Location and Training Environment

The residency training is conducted at Manchester Memorial Hospital, which serves as a teaching hospital. This facility is well-respected within the healthcare community of Manchester, Connecticut, creating a solid foundation for residents to develop their skills in a supportive and diverse environment. The location also offers easy access to larger metropolitan areas, such as Hartford, Boston, and New York City, enriching both personal and professional lives. 1