University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix Program
Location:
Phoenix, AZSpecialty:
Child and adolescent psychiatryACGME Code:
4050340180Welcome to the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, a collaborative program with Phoenix Children’s Hospital. This fellowship operates within Arizona's only free-standing pediatric hospital, which stands as one of the ten largest hospitals of its kind in the United States. Established in 2018, the program has been developed with the goal of training future leaders in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
The fellowship offers a unique opportunity for trainees to work with a diverse patient population characterized by varying backgrounds and psychiatric needs. Fellows engage with an interdisciplinary team, participating in outpatient, inpatient, and consultative services throughout the hospital and across the state. This comprehensive exposure equips fellows with the skills necessary to address the continually evolving mental health needs of children and adolescents.
Curriculum and Training
Fellows in the program participate in a robust curriculum designed to foster self-directed, compassionate learning, and knowledge application. They are trained under faculty members who possess a myriad of interests including maternal-fetal care, early childhood trauma, addictions, and urgent psychiatric services. The educational experience is characterized by clinical practice intertwined with didactic seminars, emphasizing the integration of physical and emotional health.
This fellow-centered training approach allows for personal development and a deeper understanding of practice through varied clinical experiences. Additionally, fellows have the opportunity to lead outreach and education efforts through webinars, blogs, and presentations at professional conferences, promoting knowledge dissemination within the community.
Clinical Rotations
The fellowship incorporates rotations that provide extensive hands-on clinical experience. Each rotation is carefully structured to allow fellows to engage various aspects of child and adolescent mental health. This exposure includes working with different patient demographics and a range of psychiatric disorders, which is critical for developing comprehensive care strategies.
Research Opportunities
Research is a vital component of the fellowship, encouraging fellows to explore innovative solutions to pressing mental health challenges. Faculty mentorship helps to guide research initiatives, facilitating the exploration of contemporary issues within child and adolescent psychiatry.
Fellowship's Unique Aspects
The integration of physical and emotional healthcare, alongside an understanding of the child's living system, distinguishes this fellowship from others. It promotes a holistic approach to mental health treatment. The program’s dedication to teaching and community service also supports the growth of each fellow beyond mere clinical competencies.
Visa Support and Sponsorship
The fellowship program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, ensuring that qualified candidates can apply regardless of their geographic origins. The program typically sponsors J-1 visas, which are common among post-graduate medical education programs.
Application Requirements
Applicants must have completed an accredited residency program in psychiatry before applying. The fellowship is competitive, appealing to both MD and DO graduates, as well as international medical graduates who meet specific criteria. Notably, candidates are generally expected to have a strong academic performance evidenced through standardized exams, with certain limitations on maximum allowable attempts.
Website
Director
Gaby Ritfeld, MD, PhDProgram Director Appointed Since September 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$75,615First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
3Location
Phoenix, AZ
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ is the capital and largest city in Arizona. Here is an overview of what living in Phoenix is like:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Phoenix has a moderately high crime rate compared to the national average. It is essential to be cautious and practice safety measures, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Phoenix offers a wide range of activities such as hiking in the desert, visiting museums, exploring the botanical gardens, enjoying the food scene, and attending various cultural events.
- Climate: Phoenix has a hot desert climate with scorching summers and mild winters. Be prepared for temperatures well over 100°F in the summer months.
- Races and Population: Phoenix is known for its diverse population with a mix of White, Hispanic, African American, Asian, and Native American residents.
- Education: Phoenix has a variety of educational opportunities including universities, colleges, and schools. The University of Arizona and Arizona State University are among the well-known institutions in the area.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Phoenix is slightly below the national average, making it a relatively affordable place to reside in compared to other major cities.
- Nearby Big Cities: Tucson is about 2 hours away from Phoenix by car. Tucson is known for its historic sites, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful desert landscapes.
Pros: Diverse population, affordable cost of living, vast educational opportunities.
Cons: High summer temperatures, moderately high crime rate in certain areas.
Interview Questions
