Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital Program

The Trinity Health Ann Arbor Addiction Medicine Fellowship is a distinguished program that was the first American Board of Addiction Medicine-approved fellowship in Michigan, established in 2013. The fellowship offers comprehensive training across both inpatient and outpatient settings, equipping fellows with the expertise necessary to excel in the expanding field of Addiction Medicine. Located strategically on the border of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital serves a diverse patient demographic due to its affiliation with IHA Recovery, one of the few Medicaid providers in Michigan.

Fellows in this program encounter varied patient backgrounds, which includes urban, suburban, and rural populations, enriching their clinical experience. Clinical responsibilities involve working alongside IHA Recovery specialists, providing inpatient consultation services at the hospital while engaging in outpatient clinic practice.

Program Structure

The fellowship accommodates two fellows each academic year. To be considered for acceptance, applicants must hold three years of residency training completed at an ACGME-accredited institution by the time of application. The fellowship prioritizes candidates who have successfully passed all three parts of the USMLE or COMLEX, and who are graduates from an AOA or LCME accredited medical school, or possess ECFMG certification for international medical graduates.

Eligibility for state licensure in Michigan and federal DEA licensing is mandatory for fellows. This licensing framework is essential for the practice of Addiction Medicine within the state.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellows are expected to engage actively in various educational activities and rotations. For instance, during the inpatient consult months, fellows are involved in teaching Internal Medicine residents, further enhancing their leadership skills. Each fellow is also assigned one afternoon per week for continuity clinic throughout the fellowship year, coupled with 4 weeks of vacation time.

Weekly didactic sessions are a staple of the curriculum, held on Friday afternoons, focusing on the principles of addiction medicine as delineated by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). These sessions are typically co-led by the fellows and the Program Director, along with contributions from faculty members and sometimes visiting experts.

Research Opportunities

Engagement in research is highly encouraged within the program. Each fellow is expected to initiate and complete at least one research project during their tenure, with the requirement to present findings at the Trinity Health Ann Arbor Annual Research Forum. The fellowship provides access to a Research Director with expertise in Internal Medicine, available to assist fellows in the design and execution of their projects.

Interviews and Selection Process

Interviews for the fellowship are conducted virtually, facilitating a structured and equitable process. Applicants can expect detailed instructions and a schedule if selected for an interview. The interview process underscores the program's commitment to ensuring safety and flexibility for both candidates and interviewers.

Living in Ann Arbor

Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital’s location in Washtenaw County is notable for its vibrancy and availability of educational and cultural opportunities. Ann Arbor is acclaimed for its eclectic array of dining options and local markets. It hosts numerous outdoor activities, with accessible parks and trails, and is near major universities which enrich the local culture and recreational options.

The local area also offers various professional sports, performing arts, and historical sites, contributing to a well-rounded living experience for fellows and their families.

Visa Support

The program supports international medical graduates and is equipped to sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing qualified candidates from abroad to apply for the fellowship. This inclusivity promotes diversity within the program and enhances the fellowship experience as fellows bring varied perspectives and insights into Addiction Medicine.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

While the fellowship is competitive, it is relatively friendly to both DO students and international medical graduates, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants. Candidates should note specific year of graduation prerequisites or standards regarding failed STEP exams, aiming for candidates who have demonstrated strong academic performance in their respective training.