Louisiana State University School of Medicine Program

The Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Fellowship at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans was established in 2009, achieving full accreditation from the appropriate governing bodies. This fellowship is firmly grounded in a robust psychiatry consultation service with deep historical roots, originating from the legacy of the New Orleans Charity Hospital. The program is further enhanced through a strategic collaboration with Ochsner Medical Center, which provides fellows with a unique and enriching experience.

The University Medical Center (UMC), a state-of-the-art facility with a capacity of 446 beds, commenced operations in 2015 and serves as a Level 1 Trauma Center. This setting is ideal for the practice of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, offering a collegial environment punctuated by intriguing consultations that Fellows may engage in.

Clinical Rotations and Experiences

C-L Psychiatry Fellows are primarily involved in collaborative care efforts at UMC's Trauma Recovery Clinic. This clinic offers a multidisciplinary behavioral health service within the Trauma Surgery Clinic, fostering a holistic approach to patient care. In addition, Fellows rotate through Ochsner Medical Center, where they experience a contrasting model focused on treating patients who are typically covered by private insurance. This exposure allows Fellows to serve as liaisons to Transplantation teams and equips them with essential skills for establishing a consultation practice within the private sector.

Fellows also gain extensive training in the provision of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) across both medical centers. This comprehensive training is beneficial in developing clinical acumen in treating severe psychiatric conditions.

Research and Teaching Opportunities

The one-year fellowship is rich with research and educational opportunities. For instance, Fellows are responsible for leading the Critical Concepts course within the simulation laboratory, which is fundamental in training medical students to identify and manage delirium—an essential skill in psychiatric practice. These teaching roles not only enhance the fellows' educational contributions but also refine their own expertise in the field.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Fellowship stands out due to its integration of diverse clinical experiences and its collaboration with two prominent institutions, which allows for a broad spectrum of exposure in terms of patient demographics and treatment models. The unique partnership with UMC and Ochsner Medical Center ensures that fellows receive well-rounded training essential for their future careers.

Situated in New Orleans, an eclectic and vibrant city known for its cultural richness, the fellowship provides a unique backdrop that further enriches the training experience for each fellow.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs) who require sponsorship. The types of visas that may be supported include the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa and the H-1B Visa, depending on individual circumstances and program policies.

As for competitiveness, the program maintains a standard that reflects its esteemed reputation but remains open to applicants from various backgrounds, including those from DO and IMG communities. Special application requirements may include considerations regarding the year of medical school graduation and permissible limits on failed examinations, ensuring that selected candidates demonstrate readiness for such a rigorous fellowship.