Residency Advisor

The Addiction Medicine Fellowship Program at Tower Health, in collaboration with Caron Treatment Centers, offers an extensive, multidisciplinary training experience designed for aspiring addiction medicine specialists. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), this fellowship stands out as a vital path to attaining board certification in addiction medicine, ensuring fellows are well-equipped with the highest standards of practice in the field. The program aims to educate a new generation of experts through a comprehensive approach that combines innovative treatment modalities with a rich educational framework provided by leaders in addiction medicine.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is both robust and extensive, incorporating various clinical components designed for in-depth learning and skill development. Fellows benefit from the integration of services offered by Caron Treatment Centers, recognized for their 62-year history in treating substance use and co-occurring disorders, and Reading Hospital, a national training site distinguished by its Centers of Excellence Award.

Key components of the fellowship curriculum include:

  • Caron Treatment Centers Residential Behavioral Health Units: Fellows participate in interdisciplinary treatment approaches within residential settings.
  • Detoxification and Withdrawal Management: Experiences in managing withdrawal syndromes and detox protocols are a core part of the training.
  • Research and Electives: Fellows are encouraged to undertake research projects relevant to addiction medicine and have the opportunity to choose electives that enhance their learning experience.
  • Clinical Rotations: Fellows rotate through various clinical settings, including outpatient substance use disorder clinics, medication-assisted treatment clinics, and emergency medicine consultation liaison services.

Fellows gain exposure to a wide array of treatment modalities, including but not limited to, medication-assisted treatments and psychotherapy techniques tailored to the recovery process.

Training Sites

The program encompasses multiple major training sites, with Caron Treatment Centers providing a specialized focus on addiction treatment, while Reading Hospital enhances exposure to a diverse patient population and broad medical knowledge. These institutions allow fellows to experience a wide range of clinical settings, preparing them for the multifaceted nature of addiction medicine.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports J-1 and H-1B visa applications, enabling international medical graduates (IMGs) to apply and participate in the fellowship training.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

This addiction medicine fellowship is known to be highly competitive, and candidates are expected to demonstrate a commitment to addiction medicine as well as a strong clinical background. The program welcomes applications from DO and IMG candidates, broadening its eligibility criteria for those with diverse educational backgrounds.

Specific application requirements include:

  • A minimum of three letters of recommendation.
  • Prior completion of an accredited residency program in a related field (e.g., psychiatry, family medicine).
  • Notable clinical experiences, preferably in addiction-related sectors.
  • ECFMG certification for international medical graduates, evidencing proficiency in medical education.

Preferred candidates will have demonstrated exposure to the US healthcare system, particularly in environments focusing on addiction treatment.

Unique Aspects of the Fellowship

The Tower Health Addiction Medicine Fellowship Program encompasses unique features to enrich the training experience:

  • Fellows receive mentorship from recognized experts in addiction medicine, enhancing their knowledge and skill set.
  • A strong emphasis on research involvement, encouraging fellows to explore new areas of interest within addiction medicine.
  • The integration of state-of-the-art treatment approaches fosters a well-rounded understanding of evidence-based practices.

This program is dedicated to cultivating a thriving environment for its fellows, allowing them to learn, grow, and ultimately succeed as leaders in addiction medicine.

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Location
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Schedule / Training

Coordinator

Jo Ann Derr, BA
Administrative Director of Medical Services and Education
jderr@caron.org

Program

Program Size

2 (1 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2018

Composition

-

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

40hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

8hrs

First Year Salary:

$68,760

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

3.2X

Residents career path:

-

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

-

Location

Wernersville, PA 19565

Population
-
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
-

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Wernersville, PA

Location Overview: Wernersville is a small borough located in Berks County, Pennsylvania. It offers a tranquil suburban atmosphere and is often appealing for those who prefer a quieter living environment.

Aspects of Living in Wernersville
  • Crime Rate and Safety: Wernersville is generally considered a safe place to live, with a lower crime rate compared to urban counterparts. Local law enforcement is active, contributing to community safety.
  • Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy various recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and community events. The nearby Blue Marsh Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
  • Climate: Wernersville experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, while winters can be quite cold, with average snowfall. Rain is common throughout the year.
  • Race and Population: Wernersville has a diverse population, though it is predominantly White. The community is small, with a population of around 2,500 residents, providing a tight-knit community feel.
  • Education: The local school district serves Wernersville, providing education from elementary to high school levels. Additionally, there are nearby colleges and universities for higher education in the broader Berks County area.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Wernersville is relatively low compared to larger cities in Pennsylvania. Housing is affordable, and general expenses are manageable for most residents.
Nearby Bigger Cities

Wernersville is situated approximately 15 miles (about a 25-minute drive) from Reading, PA, which is the county seat of Berks County. Reading offers a wider range of amenities, such as shopping, dining, and cultural events. Philadelphia, a larger metropolitan city, is around 70 miles (about a 1.5-hour drive) away, providing access to major attractions, sports, and a vibrant urban life.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:
    • Low crime rate and safe living environment
    • Affordable cost of living
    • Access to outdoor recreational activities
    • Strong sense of community
  • Cons:
    • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities
    • Public transportation options may be limited
    • Fewer cultural and dining experiences than urban areas

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Nearby Programs

Addiction medicine (multidisciplinary)

Other Specialties

References