University of Alabama Medical Center Program

The University of Alabama Medical Center Program in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Birmingham offers a comprehensive training environment tailored for residents pursuing a career in psychiatry. This program is situated within a nationally recognized academic medical institution, UAB Medicine, which provides a wealth of learning opportunities through its advanced clinical facilities and diverse patient populations.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum emphasizes a balanced approach, integrating extensive clinical experience with educational lectures and discussions. As part of their training, residents participate in a variety of rotations, including inpatient and outpatient settings, which expose them to a myriad of psychiatric disorders.

Residents are expected to complete core rotations such as Inpatient Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Neurology, and various Psychiatry specialties during the course of their training. Notably, the program also incorporates a dedicated Research Track for those interested in academic psychiatry, allowing residents to engage in innovative research activities during their training. The Residency Research Track (STEPP) program specifically tailors research-oriented pathways that focus on psychiatric disorders, equipping residents with valuable skills for a career in research and clinical practice 1.

Training Sites

All clinical training sites are conveniently located within the Medical Center District of downtown Birmingham, enabling residents to gain exposure to a broad spectrum of medical environments. Key facilities include:

• UAB Hospital: Among the largest academic medical centers in the United States, UAB Hospital provides comprehensive care and serves as the principal tertiary referral center for the region.
• Center for Psychiatric Medicine: A dedicated unit within UAB Hospital, this center delivers extensive psychiatric care to diverse populations, with specialized services for adolescents and adults.
• UAB Community Psychiatry Program: This unique center, operated by UAB, focuses on serving individuals with chronic severe mental illnesses, providing residents with hands-on experience in community psychiatry.
• Children’s of Alabama: Recognized as the third-largest pediatric hospital in the nation, this facility offers residents the opportunity to engage with children and adolescents during their Child and Adolescent Psychiatry rotations.
• Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center: This center serves military veterans and provides outpatient experiences for psychiatry residents.

Application Requirements

To apply for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship, candidates must fulfill certain criteria:

• A valid M.D. or D.O. degree or be a current candidate for the degree.
• Participation in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP).
• International medical graduates must be ECFMG certified or eligible, with a passing score on USMLE Step 2 CK.
• The program accepts H-1B and J-1 visas, providing essential immigration support 3.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages residents interested in research to apply for the Research Track, which incorporates a dedicated research component aimed at training physician-scientists. This track offers a structured program focused on developing research projects while completing residency training 4.

Resident Support and Well-Being

The well-being of residents is a priority at UAB. The training includes various wellness initiatives and resources aimed at ensuring residents can maintain a healthy work-life balance throughout their training.

Living in Birmingham

Birmingham is characterized by its affordability, rich cultural heritage, diverse dining options, and an array of recreational activities. Residents appreciate the city's vibrant community and quality of life.

In summary, the University of Alabama Medical Center Program in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry provides a comprehensive and supportive environment for aspiring psychiatrists, blending rigorous academic training with ample opportunities for research and community engagement.