University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson Program
Location:
Tucson, AZSpecialty:
Geriatric psychiatryACGME Code:
4070340001The University of Arizona College of Medicine offers a comprehensive Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Program, which is a one-year, full-time, and fully accredited training program. This fellowship is provided by the UArizona College of Medicine-Tucson Department of Psychiatry in collaboration with the Southern Arizona Veterans Administration HealthCare System in Tucson, AZ. The program is designed to offer fellows a range of clinical experiences across multiple healthcare systems, complemented by a robust didactic curriculum.
Throughout the fellowship, participants will engage with older patients experiencing various psychiatric conditions, such as delirium and depression, often in acute psychiatric emergencies on the medical-surgical floors of hospitals. The fellows will develop their skills in managing these conditions, providing crucial support to the hospitalist teams. Furthermore, they will gain experience in recognizing and assessing neuropsychiatric conditions, both in inpatient and outpatient settings, thereby broadening their clinical competencies in geriatric psychiatry 1.
Clinical Rotations
The fellowship encompasses an array of rotations that reinforce both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry skills. Fellows will have outpatient continuity clinics at several clinical sites, including the Southern Arizona Veterans Administration Health Care System, Banner University Outpatient Clinic, and a community health center. Additionally, they will rotate through the inpatient Geropsychiatry Units and engage in medical consultations and ECT treatments. The fellowship also includes a dedicated experience at the esteemed Banner Alzheimer's Institute 2.
Curriculum and Didactic Components
Fellows will participate in a well-structured didactic curriculum designed to impart essential knowledge in various aspects of geriatric psychiatry. This includes key topics such as:
- Diagnosis and management of dementia and acute delirium
- Hospital consultations for medicine and surgery units
- Management of mood and anxiety disorders in older adults
- Understanding the medical challenges associated with aging
- End-of-life issues and palliative care
- Neuroimaging and laboratory testing implications in psychiatric assessment
Fellows will also undertake an independent study project, culminating in a literature review on a chosen subject 1.
Training Locations
The program utilizes several key training sites, enhancing the fellows' learning experiences:
- Southern Arizona Veterans Administration Health Care System: A large multi-site system providing diverse services, including a Geropsychiatry Unit for veterans facing dementia and associated behavioral complications.
- Banner - University Medical Center South: Featuring an 18-bed acute care Geriatric Psychiatry unit, this facility serves patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders, offering fellows experience in acute psychiatry.
- Banner Alzheimer's Institute: A prominent center focused on the comprehensive range of services for Alzheimer's patients, allowing fellows to be involved in groundbreaking studies and care approaches.
- El Rio Health Cherrybell Geropsychiatry Clinic: This community health center offers fellows a chance to engage in caring for underserved populations.
- Good Samaritan Society-Quiburi Mission: A long-term care setting where fellows learn about end-of-life issues and multidisciplinary team dynamics in geriatric care.
Each of these locations equips fellows with a detailed understanding of the interplay between psychological and medical issues in elderly populations 4.
Visa Support and Application Process
The University of Arizona Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Program can accommodate candidates holding J1 visas, which can be particularly beneficial for international medical graduates seeking training in the United States. Furthermore, there are potential opportunities for J1 waivers for fellows wishing to remain in southern Arizona post-fellowship 2.
As for application requirements, candidates must possess an Adult Psychiatry Residency Program Certificate and submit various documents, including three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a current curriculum vitae. Additionally, applicants must confirm licensure to practice medicine in Arizona and meet necessary background and drug testing criteria 3.
Program Competitiveness and Diversity
The fellowship is competitive, accepting two fellows each year. It welcomes interns from diverse backgrounds, encouraging applicants from various racial, ethnic, cultural, geographic, religious, linguistic, gender expression, and sexual orientations, especially those interested in serving high-need areas 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
The program has established clear policies around fellow responsibilities, with no on-call requirement and expectation for teaching experience. Although there is no formal research requirement, fellows are expected to complete a guided literature review. Additional information regarding fellow benefits and salary details is also provided during the application process 4.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$77,807First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Tucson, AZ
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Tucson, AZ
Tucson, AZ is a diverse city with a population of approximately 550,000 residents. Here are some key aspects of living in Tucson:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Tucson has a moderate crime rate. It's advisable to be cautious, especially in certain areas of the city.
- Climate: Tucson has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for scorching temperatures in the summer months.
- Activities: Tucson offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and exploring national parks like Saguaro National Park. The city also features cultural attractions and a vibrant art scene.
- Races and Population: Tucson is a melting pot of diverse cultures and races, contributing to a rich tapestry of traditions and events.
- Education: Tucson is home to the University of Arizona, providing a thriving academic environment with opportunities for educational and cultural enrichment.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Tucson is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for residents looking for a more affordable lifestyle.
- Proximity to other Cities: Tucson is approximately 1.5 hours away from Phoenix by car. Phoenix is a major city with a bustling urban center, offering additional amenities and entertainment options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural scene, outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Cons: Hot summers, moderate crime rate in some areas.
Interview Questions
