UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program

The UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine offers an esteemed Addiction Medicine Fellowship, focused on a multidisciplinary approach to treating addiction. This program is designed to equip fellows with comprehensive training in both the clinical and research aspects of addiction medicine.

Program Structure

The Addiction Medicine Fellowship at UCLA integrates clinical training with research opportunities, enabling fellows to develop a robust understanding of addiction across various populations. The program emphasizes collaboration among diverse health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and addiction specialists, fostering a comprehensive educational environment.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured to include several key components:

• Clinical Rotations: Fellows participate in intensive clinical training within various settings, including outpatient clinics, inpatient units, and community-based programs, allowing fellows to work directly with underserved populations.
• Research Components: The program encourages fellows to engage in research projects, focusing on areas such as substance use disorders, behavioral interventions, and treatment efficacy.
• Didactic Learning: Regular seminars and workshops promote the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical skills, covering topics ranging from pharmacology to psychosocial interventions.

Training Sites

The Addiction Medicine Fellowship utilizes a wide range of training sites, including:

• UCLA Health Facilities: as a primary training ground, fellows gain access to a wealth of resources and innovative treatments.
• Santa Monica Medical Center: serves as another key site, allowing fellows to experience a vibrant community setting.
• Affiliated Institutions: Collaboration with local organizations further enriches the fellows' exposure to diverse methodologies and communities.

Research Opportunities

UCLA is renowned for its research efforts in addiction medicine. Fellows are encouraged to participate in ongoing research studies or initiate their own projects under the mentorship of experienced faculty members. This engagement not only enhances learning but also contributes to the overall body of knowledge regarding addiction treatments.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The UCLA Addiction Medicine Fellowship is distinguished by its:

• Interdisciplinary Approach: Emphasizing collaborative care, the program brings together professionals from various specialties to address the complex nature of addiction.
• Community Engagement: Fellows are actively involved in community outreach programs, providing essential services to underserved populations affected by addiction.
• Supportive Learning Environment: The culture at UCLA fosters inclusivity, mentorship, and personal growth, ensuring that fellows receive the support necessary for their professional development.

Visa Support and Types

The program provides comprehensive visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs) who seek to participate in the fellowship. The types of visas sponsored include J-1 visas for exchange visitors, facilitating participation in the program while ensuring compliance with medical training regulations.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The UCLA Addiction Medicine Fellowship is highly competitive, attracting many qualified applicants each year. A rigorous selection process ensures that only the most dedicated and proficient candidates are chosen. The program is friendly to diverse backgrounds, including those from DO programs and IMGs.

Special application requirements include a valid medical license, completion of an ACGME-accredited residency program in psychiatry, family medicine, or another relevant specialty, and potential restrictions on the number of failed STEP exams a candidate may have.

Mentorship and Faculty

The fellowship is supported by a distinguished faculty known for their expertise in addiction medicine and commitment to teaching. Fellows benefit from one-on-one mentorship, fostering the development of clinical and research skills in a supportive environment.