University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine Program

Program Overview

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine offers a specialized residency in Addiction Medicine, which is a multidisciplinary field aimed at equipping physicians with a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues related to addiction. The program is centered in Little Rock, Arkansas, and forms part of UAMS Health, a comprehensive academic medical center.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Addiction Medicine residency program is designed to provide residents with extensive training in the clinical management of addiction disorders. Residents engage in a blend of lectures, supervised clinical practice, and hands-on training in various settings. The curriculum covers a range of topics related to addiction, including pharmacology, mental health components, and the biological basis of addiction.

Rotations

Residents complete a series of rotations across multiple specialties, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Rotations typically include:

• Inpatient Addiction Medicine
• Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment
• Psychiatry
• Neurology
• Family Medicine
• Interventional Pain Management

This diverse exposure allows residents to practice in various clinical environments, ranging from community clinics to hospital settings, establishing a foundation for treating addiction in different patient populations.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages residents to engage in research activities related to addiction. This includes clinical trials, epidemiological studies, and community-based research. UAMS maintains a vibrant research community, supported by substantial funding, that focuses on innovative approaches to addiction treatment and prevention.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinguishing features of the UAMS Addiction Medicine program is its multidisciplinary approach. Collaborations with various departments, including Psychiatry, Family Medicine, and Public Health, enhance the training experience and foster comprehensive care for individuals with addiction issues.

The program also emphasizes leadership development and advocacy training, preparing residents to take active roles in community outreach and policy-making related to addiction and mental health.

Training Sites

Residents train at multiple esteemed sites within UAMS, including:

• UAMS Medical Center
• Arkansas Children’s Hospital
• Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System
• Local outpatient clinics

These training environments are embedded in a collaborative healthcare system, allowing residents to gain insight into diverse population health needs and treatment challenges.

Visa Support

The UAMS residency program is committed to supporting international medical graduates by offering visa sponsorship. The program typically sponsors J-1 visas for residents who meet eligibility requirements.

Competitiveness

The UAMS College of Medicine Addiction Medicine residency program is competitive, particularly due to its multidisciplinary focus and emphasis on comprehensive training. The program welcomes applications from both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), making it a DO/IMG-friendly option. Candidates are evaluated on their overall qualifications, relevant experience, and suitability for the program rather than solely on examination scores.

Special Application Requirements

Applicants interested in the Addiction Medicine residency must meet certain criteria, including:

• A valid medical degree from an accredited institution
• Active medical licensure (if applicable)
• No more than one failure in USMLE Step 1 or Step 2
• A commitment to the principles of addiction treatment and an understanding of its community impact

Additional Resources and Support

UAMS provides residents with access to numerous resources, including mental health services, wellness programs, and professional development opportunities. The supportive environment nurtures both personal and professional growth, ensuring that residents are prepared for successful careers in addiction medicine.