Ponce Health Sciences University Program
Location:
San Juan, PRSpecialty:
Addiction psychiatryACGME Code:
4014240001Overview of the Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship Program
The Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Ponce Health Sciences University offers an immersive training experience for physicians aspiring to specialize in addiction psychiatry. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders, integrating both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to expose fellows to a variety of clinical settings and diverse patient populations. Fellows participate in lectures, case discussions, and practical workshops that cover essential topics such as the neurobiology of addiction, behavioral therapies, and addiction pharmacotherapy. The aim is to equip fellows with the knowledge and skills necessary for evidence-based treatment of patients suffering from addiction.
1Clinical Rotations
During the fellowship, participants will engage in clinical rotations across multiple sites, including Ponce Health Sciences University and affiliated hospitals such as the VA Caribbean Healthcare System and University District Hospital. These rotations ensure that fellows receive extensive training in different environments, working with a wide range of professionals in multidisciplinary teams. This exposure is critical for developing a comprehensive understanding of addiction treatment and recovery.
1Research Opportunities
Ponce Health Sciences University encourages fellows to engage in research related to addiction. Opportunities to collaborate with experienced faculty members on ongoing studies offer fellows the chance to contribute to the field's body of knowledge and advance their research skills. This involvement can range from clinical trials evaluating new treatment modalities to health services research focusing on addiction care system improvements.
1Unique Aspects of the Program
The Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship program at Ponce Health Sciences University is noted for its commitment to serving the community and addressing the unique challenges faced by patients with addiction in Puerto Rico. The program advocates for culturally competent care, ensuring that fellows learn to respect and respond to the diverse cultural backgrounds of their patients. Additionally, the program emphasizes the importance of community involvement and outreach as part of the recovery process.
1Visa Support and Sponsorship
The program offers visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs) and can sponsor J-1 visas for qualified candidates. This is beneficial for IMGs looking to expand their training and education in a dynamic clinical environment. Documentation for visa applications should be prepared in alignment with the program's requirements.
1Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship is considered a competitive program. It welcomes applications from both MD and DO graduates as well as international medical graduates, making it an inclusive opportunity for a diverse cohort. Specific application requirements may include recent graduation dates, a limited number of failed exams on USMLE (usually not exceeding one failure per step), and completion of an accredited psychiatry residency program prior to entering the fellowship.
1Training Sites
The fellowship involves training in varied healthcare settings. These include academic medical centers and community hospitals, each providing a distinct experience in managing addiction. This exposure helps fellows appreciate the spectrum of care—from emergency interventions to long-term rehabilitation strategies.
1Website
Director
Liliana Rivera-Negron, MDAddiction Psychiatrist - Program Director- Clinical supervisor Appointed Since July 2021Coordinator
Program
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Admission
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-Location
San Juan, PR
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers a unique living experience with a mix of culture, history, and beautiful beaches. Below are some aspects to consider:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Like any urban area, San Juan has its share of crime, but overall it is considered safe, especially in tourist areas.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy water sports, salsa dancing, exploring historical sites like Old San Juan, and enjoying the local cuisine.
- Climate: San Juan has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and occasional rain showers. Hurricane season is a concern from June to November.
- Races and Population: San Juan is a diverse city with a mix of races and cultures, making it a vibrant and welcoming community.
- Education: Puerto Rico has various educational opportunities, including universities and schools, providing options for families with children.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in San Juan can vary, with housing costs being one of the main expenses. It is advisable to research neighborhoods for affordability.
- Proximity to Major Cities: San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and while it's a major city itself, it is relatively close to other cities like Ponce and Mayaguez, approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours by car.
Pros: Rich culture, beautiful beaches, diverse community, tropical weather.
Cons: Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers, hurricane risks during the season.
Interview Questions
