SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Program
Location:
St Louis, MOSpecialty:
Geriatric psychiatryACGME Code:
4072821018The SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Program in Geriatric Psychiatry offers a robust and comprehensive residency training experience designed to prepare residents for the complex challenges of psychiatric care in the aging population. As part of a larger graduate medical education framework, this program is focused on developing skills in clinical practice, research, and community service.
Program Overview
On July 1, 2023, the program became part of the SSM Health network, which oversees a residency training system that includes more than 600 residents and fellows across various medical disciplines. This affiliation enhances the resources available to residents, including access to advanced training facilities and a diverse patient population, while also fostering interprofessional collaboration in a supportive environment 1.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum of the Geriatric Psychiatry program is designed to provide residents with a thorough understanding of geriatric psychiatry practices, integrating clinical training with didactic education. Key components of the curriculum include:
- Clinical Rotations: Residents engage in diverse clinical rotations that encompass inpatient and outpatient settings, ensuring exposure to a variety of cases and treatment modalities.
- Specialized Training: Focused training in geriatric assessments, psychopharmacology, and psychosocial interventions is reinforced throughout the residency.
- Research Opportunities: Residents are encouraged to participate in research projects that contribute to the understanding and advancement of geriatric mental health.
Rotations
Rotations in the program are structured to cover various essential areas of geriatric psychiatry, including:
- Inpatient psychiatry services dedicated to elderly patients.
- Outpatient geriatric clinics to manage chronic psychiatric conditions.
- Consultation-liaison psychiatry services, providing expertise in medical settings.
- Community mental health resources and outreach programs.
Research and Academic Focus
Research plays a critical role in Geriatric Psychiatry training, with ample support for residents to engage in studies that explore innovative treatment strategies and best practices. Residents have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on clinical trials and community-based research initiatives, driving improvements in geriatric psychiatric care 1.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program’s strengths lie in its emphasis on holistic patient care and community engagement. The collaborative approach to mental health, alongside a focus on the human dimensions of psychiatric practice, fosters a learning environment that values compassion and innovation. Residents not only gain clinical proficiency but also develop understanding in community health issues relating to mental health in aging populations.
Training Sites
Residents of the program will rotate through several key training sites, which provide rich learning environments:
- SSM Health hospitals, offering a range of psychiatric services.
- Saint Louis University’s medical campus, known for its extensive resources and interprofessional education.
Visa Support
The program supports international applicants by sponsoring J1 visa applications via the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Additionally, H1B training visas may be sponsored at the discretion of individual programs. Such flexibility aims to meet the needs of international medical graduates, facilitating diverse participation in the residency 1.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Geriatric Psychiatry residency program is competitive, aligning with the high standards maintained by SSM Health and the Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Applicants are typically required to demonstrate high academic achievements and clinical competencies. International medical graduates (IMGs) must provide ECFMG certification to be considered for the program, indicating readiness to enter ACGME-accredited residency programs. Year of graduation and previous performance in STEP examinations may influence candidacy, with specific policies that ensure a fair evaluation process.
Website
Director
William M Redden, MDAssociate Professor, Program Director Appointed Since August 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$64,979First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
5.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
St. Louis, MO
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in St. Louis, MO
St. Louis is a diverse city offering a mix of urban and suburban living. Here is an overview of different aspects of living in St. Louis:
- Crime Rate and Safety: St. Louis has areas with varying crime rates, so it's important to research specific neighborhoods. Overall, the city has made improvements in safety but like any big city, precautions are still necessary.
- Fun Activities: St. Louis is known for its Gateway Arch, Forest Park, diverse food scene, museums, and sports teams like the Cardinals and Blues. There are also many parks and outdoor recreational activities available.
- Climate: St. Louis experiences all four seasons with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are often mild and pleasant.
- Races and Population: St. Louis has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural scene.
- Education: St. Louis is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for continuing education and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in St. Louis is lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: St. Louis is approximately a 4-hour drive from Chicago, IL, and a 5-hour drive from Kansas City, MO. Both cities offer additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options.
Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural experiences, plenty of outdoor activities.
Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, winters can be cold.
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