New York Presbyterian Hospital (Cornell Campus)/Westchester Program
Location:
White Plains, NYSpecialty:
Geriatric psychiatryACGME Code:
4073521030The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at New York Presbyterian Hospital (Westchester Campus) associated with Weill Cornell Medicine is tailored for physicians seeking to specialize in the complexities of geriatric mental health. This program is designed to equip fellows with essential skills and knowledge to address the unique mental health needs of older adults, preparing them to excel in a diverse array of clinical settings.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum of the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship focuses on comprehensive interdisciplinary training. It includes didactic sessions that cover a range of topics essential for understanding and treating psychiatric disorders in the elderly. Topics may include neurodegenerative diseases, depression, anxiety, psychosis in late life, and the psychiatric aspects of managing chronic medical conditions. Fellows will also participate in seminars emphasizing clinical skills, research methodology, and issues pertaining to aging.
Clinical Rotations
Fellows will engage in various clinical rotations involving teamwork with geriatricians, nurses, social workers, and other mental health professionals. The clinical experiences are designed to provide exposure to outpatient, inpatient, and consultative settings, primarily at NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health Center. This setting fosters hands-on experience handling complex cases and unique challenges associated with geriatric patients.1
Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes the importance of academic scholarship and encourages fellows to engage in research that contributes to the field of geriatric psychiatry. Fellows will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced faculty members on research projects exploring innovative therapies, best practices in geriatric mental health, and outcomes associated with psychiatric interventions. These opportunities aim to foster a spirit of inquiry and intellectual engagement throughout the fellowship.2
Unique Aspects of the Program
The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship stands out for its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and a holistic approach to mental health care.3 Participants are trained to acknowledge and address social determinants of health that uniquely affect the geriatric population. Additionally, the program promotes a supportive environment that encourages open dialogue around systemic challenges impacting mental health care.
Training Sites
Training occurs primarily at the NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health Center. This facility is notable for its specialized programs for older adults and its comprehensive approach to treatment, incorporating psychiatric evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication management. Additionally, fellows may participate in community outreach initiatives that focus on improving access to geriatric mental health services.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The fellowship program is recognized for being highly competitive, with a preference for candidates who have completed a residency in psychiatry. Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to geriatric psychiatry and an understanding of the diverse challenges faced by older adults.4 Specific application requirements may include an updated curriculum vitae, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and documentation of prior residency training. Particular attention may be given to applicants with relevant volunteer or work experience in geriatric settings.
Visa Support
The program offers visa sponsorship options for international medical graduates. It provides support for J-1 and H-1B visa types, allowing qualified candidates from around the world to apply for the fellowship opportunity. This support is crucial for creating a diverse learning environment enriched by international perspectives in geriatric mental health practices.
Website
Director
Jimmy N Avari, MDProgram Director-Assistant Attending Psychiatrist Appointed Since May 2014Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$103,200First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
5.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
White Plains, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in White Plains, NY
- Crime Rate and Safety: White Plains is generally considered a safe city with a lower crime rate compared to other neighboring cities in New York. The city has an active police force and various safety measures in place.
- Fun Activities: White Plains offers a vibrant downtown area with numerous shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Residents can enjoy parks, museums, theaters, and cultural events throughout the year.
- Climate: White Plains experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Residents can enjoy all four seasons with some snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: White Plains has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, creating a multicultural environment.
- Education: The city is home to multiple educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and libraries, providing access to quality education for residents of all ages.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in White Plains is higher than the national average, mainly driven by housing costs. However, there are also various housing options available, from apartments to single-family homes.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: White Plains is located just 30 minutes north of New York City by car or train. Residents can easily access the cultural and entertainment offerings of the Big Apple while enjoying a more suburban lifestyle in White Plains.
- Pros: Safe environment, diverse community, proximity to New York City, access to quality education.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, traffic congestion during rush hours.
Interview Questions
