Medical University of South Carolina Program
Location:
Charleston, SCSpecialty:
Addiction psychiatryACGME Code:
4014521014The Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship Program at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) has been at the forefront of training psychiatrists in the specialization of addiction psychiatry since 1996. With a robust curriculum and ample clinical experience, the program supports fellows in diagnosing and treating addictive disorders, including co-occurring psychiatric conditions. The fellowship is ACGME-accredited and spans one year, concluding with eligibility for certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in addiction psychiatry.1
MUSC's Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship provides an immersive training experience across three prominent clinical settings. These include the Charleston Center, focused on substance use education and treatment; the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, which caters to a vast veteran population; and the MUSC Medical Center, which offers extensive inpatient and outpatient services.1
Curriculum and Training
The fellowship’s curriculum is meticulously designed, incorporating didactic series that cover essential topics relevant to addiction psychiatry. Fellows participate in a weekly one-hour meeting that involves discussions on literature and the opportunity to lead discussions on board-style questions, encouraging both collaborative learning and independent thought.1
Key topics covered in the didactic series include:
- Neurobiology of Addiction
- Neuroimaging
- Motivational Interviewing
- Adolescent Substance Use
- Epidemiology
- Research Literacy
- Multiple Pathways of Recovery
In addition to these topics, fellows are invited to participate in the Psychiatry Grand Rounds and ECHO Series, ensuring that they remain informed about the latest breakthroughs and best practices in the field of addiction psychiatry.1
Research Opportunities
Fellows at MUSC benefit from access to leading experts in addiction research, participating in various research projects that focus on innovative treatment methods and the neurobiology of substance use disorders. This engagement allows participants to deepen their understanding of addiction and its multifaceted nature, preparing them for future roles as clinician-researchers.1
Program Faculty and Administration
The program boasts an experienced faculty involved in clinical practice, research, and education. Mentorship opportunities abound, with faculty members from diverse backgrounds supporting fellows in both clinical and research endeavors. Faculty members have extensive clinical experience, having worked on various grants and studies targeted at treatment efficacy for substance use disorders.1
Application Process and Requirements
To apply for the fellowship, candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited psychiatry residency. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are welcomed, but they must submit additional documentation, including a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certificate and proof of visa status or U.S. citizenship.1
The fellowship recruitment process follows the National Resident Matching Program and requires the following documents submitted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS):
- Completed universal application
- Personal Statement
- Curriculum Vitae
- USMLE Step 1, 2, & 3 scores
- Letter from the Psychiatry Residency Training Director
- Two letters of reference
Visa Support
The program offers sponsorship for H-1B and J-1 visa types. This support is essential for international applicants seeking to complete their fellowship training in the United States.1
Competitiveness
The Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at MUSC is known for its competitive nature, attracting applicants from a variety of backgrounds, including D.O. and international medical graduates. Prospective fellows should prepare a strong application to increase their chances of selection.1
Website
Director
Karen J Hartwell, MDProfessor, Department of Psychiatry Appointed Since July 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$68,616First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Charleston, SC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Charleston, SC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Charleston has a moderate crime rate, with certain areas experiencing more crime than others. Generally, downtown Charleston is considered safe, but like any city, it's important to be cautious, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Charleston offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, vibrant culinary scene, and numerous cultural events. Residents can enjoy water sports, explore historical sites, indulge in delicious seafood, and attend music and arts festivals.
- Climate: Charleston has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city receives a good amount of rainfall throughout the year.
- Races and Population: Charleston has a diverse population with a mix of races. It is known for its Southern charm and hospitality.
- Education: Charleston is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational opportunities for residents. The city also has good schools for families with children.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Charleston is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can be high, but there are affordable options available.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Charleston is roughly 2 hours away from Columbia, SC, and about 4 hours away from Charlotte, NC. Both cities offer additional cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment.
- Pros: Rich history, beautiful beaches, vibrant culinary scene, good educational opportunities.
- Cons: Some areas with higher crime rates, higher cost of living in certain neighborhoods.
Interview Questions
