UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
Addiction psychiatryACGME Code:
4012413063Overview of the Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship Program
The Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship Program at UMass Chan Medical School, part of the UMass Memorial Health Care system, is designed to equip fellows with both advanced clinical skills and an extensive knowledge base in the treatment of substance use disorders. The program emphasizes a comprehensive approach to addiction psychiatry, focusing on the interplay between addiction and co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
The services provided by the addiction division include consultation, evaluation, and induction onto buprenorphine, treatment stabilization, and brief treatment for patients struggling with a variety of substance addictions such as alcohol, opiates, cocaine, and cannabis. Through this fellowship, participants learn from a diverse range of clinical settings that address acute and chronic substance use issues, further establishing their expertise in addiction medicine.
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum includes comprehensive training modules that cover a variety of foundational aspects of addiction psychiatry. Rotations are structured to provide hands-on clinical experience at several key facilities, including AdCare Hospital and the Addiction and Comorbidity Treatment Service (ACTS). Fellows engage with patients in diverse settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and rehabilitation programs, thereby gaining insight into different levels of treatment intensity and approaches to managing withdrawal, relapse prevention, and ongoing recovery.
Research Opportunities
The program also places a strong emphasis on research, allowing fellows to participate in ongoing addiction-related projects. Research initiatives cover a wide range of topics including opioid dependence, psychosocial treatment efficacy, and innovative approaches to recovery using technology. Collaborations with faculty conducting significant research will enhance the fellows' ability to contribute to the field of addiction psychiatry through novel treatment methodologies and evidence-based practices.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the distinctive features of the Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at UMass is the integration of care that emphasizes the role of community health services and interdisciplinary collaboration. The partnership with local organizations such as Community Healthlink and Spectrum Health Systems enables fellows to experience a broad range of community-based treatment approaches and enhances access to care for underserved populations. Additionally, the program focuses on special populations, including veterans and individuals experiencing homelessness, using evidence-informed strategies to address specific challenges these groups face in obtaining treatment.
Training Sites
The Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship leverages multiple renowned training sites, which include:
- AdCare Hospital: A large, accredited inpatient facility specializing in the treatment of substance-related disorders.
- Motivational Youth Rehabilitation: This site serves young individuals working towards recovery and emphasizes motivational interviewing techniques.
- Addiction and Comorbidity Treatment Service (ACTS): Focusing on integrated care for patients with mental health disorders alongside substance abuse.
These diverse training opportunities not only enrich the educational experience of the fellows but also enhance their adaptability in different patient care contexts.
Visa Support and Application Requirements
The program is open to international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorship options, primarily for J-1 and H-1B visa types. This facilitates a diverse applicant pool, further enriching the program's educational and cultural fabric. Competitive candidates typically possess robust clinical backgrounds and demonstrate a strong commitment to the field of addiction psychiatry.
Special application requirements may include a maximum number of failed Step exams; candidates should review specific criteria during the application process to ensure their eligibility.
Competitiveness and Selection Process
The fellowship program is noted for being competitive, attracting candidates with strong training backgrounds in psychiatric care. The fellowship continues to welcome applications from both U.S. and international medical graduates, fostering a diverse and enriching learning environment.
Overall, the UMass Chan Medical School's Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship Program provides a multifaceted educational experience designed for those committed to advancing their careers in addiction psychiatry and improving patient outcomes in this critical area of mental health.
Website
Director
Caridad Ponce Martinez, MDAssistant Professor of Psychiatry Appointed Since August 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$84,050First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Worcester, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA is a diverse city with a lot to offer for residents. Here is an overview of what living in Worcester is like:
Crime Rate and Safety:
Worcester has a mid-range crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. While certain areas may have higher crime rates, overall the city is considered safe to live in.
Fun Activities:
Worcester offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. There are also numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city has a vibrant food scene with diverse dining options.
Climate:
Worcester has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Races and Population:
Worcester is a diverse city with a population of approximately 208,000 residents. The city has a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Education:
Worcester is home to several higher education institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clark University. The city also has a strong public school system for residents with children.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Worcester is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood, but overall, Worcester offers a more affordable living situation compared to nearby Boston.
Proximity to Bigger Cities:
Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, which is about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic. Boston offers additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents looking to explore a bigger city.
Pros and Cons:
One of the pros of living in Worcester is its diverse community and cultural attractions. However, one potential con could be the traffic congestion during peak times, especially when commuting to Boston.
Interview Questions
