Meharry Medical College Program
Location:
Nashville, TNSpecialty:
PsychiatryACGME Code:
4004721207NRMP Program Code:
1028400C0The 4-year General Psychiatry Residency Training Program at Meharry Medical College is meticulously designed to prepare resident physicians for the multifaceted practice of psychiatry in the 21st century. The program enjoys accreditation from the Residency Review Committee of the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education, assuring high educational standards and comprehensive training for all residents 1.
Core to the program is an extraordinarily rich clinical experience throughout the training years. Residents engage in diagnosing and treating a diverse array of patients across various settings, learning the essential roles of a modern psychiatrist, including primary clinician, consultant, team leader, and therapist. Supervision varies according to the resident's level of training and demonstrated skill, ensuring a tailored educational approach 1.
Curriculum
The program's curriculum integrates extensive clinical practice with a comprehensive suite of didactic seminars, rounds, and case conferences, offering a well-rounded education. Clinical education occurs in multidisciplinary settings that promote collaboration among various mental health professionals, including those in psychiatry, psychology, social work, and psychiatric nursing. This interdisciplinary framework strengthens the educational experience and prepares residents for integrated care 1.
Rotations
The residency program's rotation structure allows for varied exposure to different aspects of psychiatric practice:
- PGY-1: 4 months Internal Medicine/Primary Care, 2 months Neurology, and 6 months Inpatient Psychiatry.
- PGY-2: 6 months Inpatient Psychiatry with a forensic experience, and 6 months in either Consultation & Liaison Psychiatry, Emergency Psychiatry, or Child Psychiatry.
- PGY-3: 12 months of Adult Outpatient Psychiatry, including Substance Use Disorders.
- PGY-4: 1 month Geriatric Psychiatry and 11 months of Electives or remaining ACGME required rotations.
This framework ensures that every resident completes all mandated rotations, with flexibility for residents pursuing specific interests and subspecialties 1.
Didactics
Didactic sessions are held every Tuesday from 12 PM to 5 PM, covering crucial topics such as Addiction Psychiatry, Biopsychosocial Presentation, Ethics & Law, Forensic Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry, Grand Rounds, Group Therapy, Journal Club, Psychopathology, Psychopharmacology, and Psychotherapy 1.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The residency program is highly competitive, with specific requirements for applicants. Candidates must hold a medical degree from an accredited medical school within the last three years. International medical graduates are required to possess a valid ECFMG certificate. U.S. citizenship or a valid green card is mandatory as the program does not offer visa sponsorship 2.
In terms of examination scores, applicants are expected to provide transcripts of USMLE Step 1 and 2 or COMLEX Level 1 and 2. A personal statement and 3-4 recommendation letters are also required 2.
Visa Support
Meharry Medical College does not currently sponsor visas for residency applicants. Thus, all candidates must have U.S. citizenship or a valid green card to be considered for admission into the program 2.
Training Sites
The diverse clinical sites available for residents enhance the training experience. These sites include:
- Metropolitan Nashville General Hospital, Nashville, TN
- TN Valley Healthcare System, Alvin C. York Campus, Murfreesboro, TN
- Centennial Medical Center/Parthenon Pavilion, Nashville, TN
- Middle Tennessee Mental Health Institute, Nashville, TN
- The Elam Mental Health Center, Nashville, TN
- Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Skyline Medical Clinic, Madison, TN
- St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital, Murfreesboro, TN
- St. Thomas West Hospital, Nashville, TN
- Medicos Para La Familia, Nashville, TN
- Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, TN
- Green County Health Care, Inc., Snow Hill, NC
- Mercy Hospital and Medical Center, Chicago, IL
- Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center, Inc., Nashville, TN
This wide range of experiences across multiple community and institutional settings prepares Meharry residents for the challenges they will face in their psychiatric careers 2.
Website
Director
Jason E Cheng, MDProgram Director and Attending Outpatient Psychiatrist Appointed Since May 2019Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$59,677First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
5 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
214Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
3Location
Nashville, TN
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Nashville, TN
- Crime Rate and Safety: Nashville has a moderate crime rate, with some areas experiencing higher crime than others. It is important to stay informed about the safety of different neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous live music venues and events throughout the city. There are also parks, museums, and a variety of dining options to explore.
- Climate: Nashville experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and mild winters. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant times of the year.
- Races and Population: Nashville is a diverse city with a mix of different races and cultures. The population is growing steadily due to its popularity as a place to live and work.
- Education: Nashville is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Nashville is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in the US, but housing costs have been increasing in recent years.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like Memphis (about 3 hours drive) and Atlanta (about 4 hours drive) are within a reasonable driving distance from Nashville. Each city offers its own unique attractions and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Rich music and cultural scene, diverse population, moderate cost of living compared to other big cities.
- Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, housing costs are rising, traffic can be congested during peak times.
Interview Questions
