Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin is a robust program accredited by the ACGME, aimed at developing future leaders in the field of geriatric psychiatry. This fellowship engages candidates who are mature thinkers and possess a keen interest in the complexities surrounding the mental health needs of older adults. The training is extensive, focusing on the intersection of psychiatry and medicine, requiring participants to stay current with advancements in medicine, neurology, psychopharmacology, and understand end-of-life issues pertaining to geriatric patients 1.

Fellows will focus on the unique challenges of geriatric patient care, emphasizing the importance of the patient's family and cultural background in the treatment process. Due to the increasing demand for knowledgeable and competent psychiatric care for older adults, this program addresses a significant gap in the health care system 1.

Curriculum

The fellowship is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the biological and psychosocial changes associated with aging. Fellows will be equipped with the knowledge to manage psychopathologies that begin in mid-life and extend into late-life. The curriculum covers essential topics including the psychiatric aspects of various medical and neurocognitive disorders, evidence-based pharmacotherapy, and community-based interventions targeting late-life mental health issues 1.

Application Process

For those interested in applying, the Geriatric Fellowship Program has two available positions and accepts applications year-round. The application process requires submission of several documents, including:

• MCWAH application form
• Current curriculum vitae with explanation for any gaps longer than one month
• Personal statement detailing interests and goals
• Original transcripts of USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3 (must pass all three steps before applying)
• Medical school dean’s letter and transcript
• Copy of medical school diploma
• ECFMG certificate (for international medical graduates)
• Visa status information (for international applicants)
• Three letters of recommendation, one from the current training director

All candidates must have a valid Wisconsin Medical License and DEA certificate prior to starting the program 1.

Didactics and Supervision

The fellowship includes a structured didactic program comprised of seminars on biological and cognitive aging changes, psychopharmacological interventions, and the social and ethical implications related to geriatric psychiatry. Participation in case conferences, seminars, and journal clubs is encouraged, and attendance at the American Association of Geriatric Psychiatry annual meeting is also promoted 1.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows will undergo a variety of clinical rotations that encompass a wide spectrum of care settings including inpatient, outpatient, consultation-liaison, and long-term care environments. This extensive exposure is critical to developing the fellows’ competencies as they learn to deliver exceptional clinical care while functioning as effective consultants and educators in geriatric psychiatry 1.

The primary clinical teaching site is the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, where fellows consult on various subacute units and participate in multidisciplinary team meetings. The experience also includes ongoing outpatient clinical exposure through specialized clinics such as the memory disorders clinic and geriatric psychiatry clinic 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital component of the fellowship, as fellows are expected to complete at least one academic project during their tenure. Opportunities for scholarly activities include presentations and potential publications, further enhancing their academic credentials and research experience 1.

Visa Support

The fellowship program at the Medical College of Wisconsin provides visa sponsorship mainly under the J-1 visa category for international medical graduates. This support is crucial for eligible applicants who require assistance navigating their visa pathways 1.

Competitiveness and Special Application Requirements

This fellowship is considered competitive; however, the program strives to be inclusive and is seen as friendly towards both DO and IMG candidates. Special application requirements include passing scores on all three USMLE steps prior to application submission 1.