University of Alabama Medical Center Program
Location:
Birmingham, ALSpecialty:
Child and adolescent psychiatryACGME Code:
4050121172The 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.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$64,715First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.9XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Birmingham, AL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Birmingham, AL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Birmingham has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, but certain neighborhoods are safer than others. It's advisable to research specific areas before choosing a residence.
- Fun Activities: The city offers a variety of cultural and outdoor activities, including museums, parks, restaurants, and live music venues.
- Climate: Birmingham has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity and occasional storms.
- Races and Population: Birmingham is a diverse city with a mix of races, ethnicities, and cultures. The population is around 200,000 people.
- Education: Birmingham is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for further education and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Birmingham is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Birmingham is within driving distance of major cities like Atlanta, Georgia (about 2.5 hours away), and Nashville, Tennessee (around 3 hours away).
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse culture, proximity to other cities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate in some areas, hot and humid summers.
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