The MedStar Health Baltimore Residency Program in Psychiatry is dedicated to shaping capable professionals in the field of psychiatry while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This residency program combines rigorous training with a community-focused approach, enriching the educational experience of its residents.
Overview
The program emphasizes the development of compassionate and knowledgeable clinicians, researchers, educators, and administrators. Located in Baltimore, a city characterized by its rich cultural diversity, the training program offers residents access to a broad spectrum of clinical opportunities. Resident training occurs in a variety of community hospitals across Baltimore City and County, providing a comprehensive understanding of the mental health needs of diverse populations.
1Residents will gain experience in community-based hospitals including MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Harbor Hospital, which serve as the primary training sites for the program. The curriculum is designed to cover relevant clinical skills and knowledge, while also integrating a strong focus on cultural psychiatry, and the social determinants of mental health throughout the four years of training.
1Curriculum and Rotations
The residency encompasses a four-year duration divided into key training years, each emphasizing different competencies.
PGY-I Year
The first year or PGY-I focuses on foundational medical knowledge and essential clinical skills. Residents undergo rotations in internal medicine, emergency medicine, and neurology, alongside essential psychiatric training. Key rotations include four months posted in Internal Medicine and six months in Adult Inpatient Psychiatry.
1PGY-II Year
During the second year, residents gain proficiency in adult inpatient care, including a one-month rotation in the Psychiatric Emergency Department. This year emphasizes collaborative care techniques suitable for community settings.
1PGY-III Year
The PGY-III year is dedicated to outpatient psychiatry, focusing on both adult and child outpatient treatment. In this year, residents acquire skills in long-term supporting psychodynamic psychotherapy and engage in clinical rotations that promote interdisciplinary collaboration.
1PGY-IV Year
The final year allows residents to explore areas of specific interest, particularly in leadership roles such as Chief Residents. Emphasis is put on advanced outpatient therapies and preparation for the role of attending psychiatrist.
1Training Sites
The program incorporates a variety of training locations:
- MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center
- MedStar Harbor Hospital
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
- MedStar Union Memorial Hospital
- MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital
- Springfield Hospital Center
- Chase Brexton Community Clinics
This diversity of training sites enhances the resident experience and allows exposure to varied clinical populations and environments.
1Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities throughout their training, culminating in a scholarly project or research presentation during Residency Poster Day. Opportunities exist to collaborate with faculty on various research initiatives relevant to psychiatry.
1Application Requirements
The MedStar Health Psychiatry Residency Program is competitive, accepting applications only for four PGY-1 positions. Prospective applicants must submit through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and are evaluated based on:
- Global performance in medical school including Dean's letter and transcript
- USMLE or COMLEX examination scores
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement explaining motivation for pursuing psychiatry
- Supplemental applications (if applicable)
- Curriculum vitae
For international medical graduates, the program accepts only J-1 visa sponsorship through the ECFMG. This highlights a commitment to support international trainees.
2Competitiveness and Diversity
The program is committed to promoting diversity, actively seeking to recruit applicants from various backgrounds. This commitment aligns with the values of cultural humility and social responsibility, enhancing the breadth and depth of the educational experience.
1Special Application Requirements
Applicants should ensure that they comply with specific special requirements, including year of graduation and performance standards as outlined during the application process. The program seeks to identify individuals who display potential for leadership and innovation in the field of psychiatry.
2Visa Support
The MedStar Health Baltimore Psychiatry Residency Program sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates. This allows for a robust selection of candidates from various international backgrounds, fostering a rich educational environment.
2Website
Director
Theodora G Balis, MDProgram Director Appointed Since April 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
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Quality of Life
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Admission
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-Location
Baltimore, MD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Baltimore, MD - Program Location Overview
- Crime Rate and Safety: Baltimore has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, with some areas being safer than others. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods for safety before moving.
- Fun Activities: Baltimore offers a variety of cultural attractions, such as the Inner Harbor, museums, historic sites, and waterfront activities. There are also parks, nightlife spots, and diverse dining options to explore.
- Climate: Baltimore experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making outdoor activities enjoyable during those times.
- Races and Population: Baltimore is a diverse city with a significant African American population. It also has a mix of other races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant culture and communities.
- Education: Baltimore is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational opportunities and contributing to the city's intellectual landscape.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Baltimore is slightly above the national average, with housing costs being a significant factor. Rent and home prices can vary greatly depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Baltimore is about an hour's drive away from Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. Both cities offer their own unique attractions, cultural experiences, and job opportunities for residents willing to commute.
- Pros: Diverse population, cultural attractions, educational opportunities, proximity to other major cities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate in some areas, slightly above average cost of living, extreme weather conditions.
Interview Questions
