University of Alabama Medical Center Program

The UAB Division of Adolescent Medicine at Children's of Alabama offers a distinctive fellowship program in Adolescent Medicine that is recognized for its excellence in teaching and clinical care. The program aims to enhance the health status of adolescents primarily in the southeastern region of the United States. Faculty supervise care provided by residents and fellows across diverse clinical settings, including primary care and specialized clinics, through UAB, Children’s of Alabama, and community-based sites 1.

Fellowship Overview

The UAB Adolescent Medicine Fellowship is a comprehensive RRC-approved training program designed specifically for physicians who have completed residency training in pediatrics, family medicine, or internal medicine. The fellowship spans three years and encompasses interdisciplinary training that aligns with ACGME core competencies 3. The unique structure of the program emphasizes practical and theoretical knowledge, enabling fellows to actively engage in teaching medical students and residents while collaborating with healthcare trainees from various related fields.

Curriculum and Clinical Experience

The curriculum is designed to provide a broad spectrum of experiences that prepare fellows to address a variety of adolescent health issues. Core topics covered in the fellowship include:

• Physical and psychosocial changes associated with adolescence
• Nutrition and health problems prevalent among adolescents
• Mental health issues, including substance abuse and eating disorders
• Family dynamics and adolescent parenthood
• Reproductive health and sexually transmitted diseases
• Public health issues and advocacy training

This diverse curriculum aims to equip fellows with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage healthcare for adolescents 3.

LEAH Program

Integral to the fellowship is the Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH) initiative, a federally funded program designed to enhance leadership skills among health professionals working in adolescent health 5. This compelling training component promotes public health initiatives, community engagement projects, and policy advocacy. Fellows in the LEAH program will be involved in interdisciplinary activities that foster collaboration among professionals in medicine, nutrition, psychology, and social work.

Moreover, the LEAH program supports various clinical services, such as the Adolescent Health Center, which serves over 1,200 adolescents and young adults annually. This facility provides comprehensive care for adolescents with complex medical and psychosocial needs 5.

Research and Opportunities

UAB’s active and experienced faculty engage in a multitude of research initiatives, focusing particularly on issues including adolescent obesity, mental health, and preventive care. The institution ranks highly in federal research funding, providing fellows with rich opportunities to participate in meaningful research projects 5. Fellows are encouraged to pursue master's level training in public health or related fields to enhance their professional development.

Application Process

The fellowship program has specific application requirements. While details on maximum failed STEP exams or prerequisites for graduation from a particular year are not listed, it is essential for applicants to have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in pediatrics, internal medicine, or family medicine. In addition, the program is described as competitive, suggesting that candidates should prepare thoroughly for the selection process 3.

Visa Support

The UAB Adolescent Medicine Fellowship has provisions to sponsor J-1 visas for international medical graduates. This visa support allows qualified IMG physicians to undertake training in the program, thus enhancing the diversity and global perspective within the fellowship 1.

Conclusion

The UAB Adolescent Medicine Fellowship exemplifies a commitment to innovative education and comprehensive care tailored specifically for adolescents. With a strong foundation in practical learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and extensive clinical exposure, the program is well suited for those pursuing a career in this vital field of medicine.