Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU Health) Program

The Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Fellowship program at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is designed to prepare psychiatrists in the specialized domain of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (CLP). This fellowship focuses on meeting the psychiatric needs of medically ill patients while collaborating closely with healthcare teams in both clinical and research settings.

Clinical Training

The curriculum involves extensive training in primary clinical settings where fellows evaluate and manage psychiatric disorders related to medical conditions. Through immersive rotations, fellows learn the intricacies of various medical contexts, including oncology, emergency medicine, and neurology, directly applying psychiatric principles in multidisciplinary teams.

Rotations

Fellows participate in diverse rotations, which may include:

• Psychiatry Consultation Service: Engaging in direct patient care and consultations across the health system.

• Emergency Psychiatry: Evaluating and managing acute psychiatric presentations in emergency settings.

• Oncology: Working collaboratively with oncologists to address the psychological impacts of cancer treatment.

• Neurology and Rehabilitation: Focusing on the intersection of neurology and mental health.

Each rotation offers intensive clinical exposure crucial for developing expertise in CLP, enhancing fellows' skills in therapeutic communication, psychiatric assessment, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes a strong research component, encouraging fellows to engage in clinical research projects relevant to Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. Fellows have opportunities to work alongside established faculty, contributing to innovative studies that influence psychiatric practices and policies within complex healthcare environments. This includes exploring topics such as the psychological dimensions of chronic disease management, the impact of social determinants on health, and PTSD in medically vulnerable populations.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The OHSU fellowship places a unique emphasis on equity and inclusion, aligning with Oregon Health Authority policies aimed at enhancing accessibility to psychiatric care in a multicultural context. Fellows are trained not only in clinical skills but also in approaches to address health inequities effectively.

Training Sites

Fellows train primarily at OHSU Hospital, which is known for its comprehensive medical services and commitment to collaborative care. Additionally, exposure to affiliated hospitals and outpatient centers allows fellows to experience a wide range of clinical settings.

Visa Support

The program offers sponsorship for various visa types, including J-1 and H-1B visas, providing essential support for international medical graduates looking to gain specialized experience in CLP within the United States.

Competitiveness

The Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry fellowship at OHSU is notably competitive, attracting a diverse pool of applicants, including those who identify as international medical graduates (IMGs) and Doctors of Osteopathy (DOs). The program seeks candidates with strong backgrounds in psychiatry and a commitment to improving mental health services in integrated healthcare settings.

Application Requirements

While specific application details can vary, interested candidates should typically have completed an accredited residency in psychiatry and may be required to demonstrate compliance with maximum thresholds on STEP examinations. Details regarding graduation year and eligibility are clarified in the program’s official communications.