University of California (San Diego) Medical Center Program

The UC San Diego Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship Program is an ACGME accredited training initiative that commenced in 2020, aimed at cultivating the next generation of leaders in the field of addiction psychiatry. The program offers a comprehensive one-year clinical fellowship focused on substance use disorders.

Program Overview

At UC San Diego, there is a longstanding tradition of cutting-edge research in substance use and addiction, which enhances the fellowship experience for participants. The program integrates clinical training with research opportunities to equip fellows with essential skills and knowledge to practice independently at the consultant level in addiction psychiatry 1.

Curriculum

The fellowship adheres to the ACGME requirements by providing fellows with a primary placement at the UC San Diego Substance Treatment and Recovery (STAR) Program, alongside secondary rotations at community partners such as the Veteran's Administration (VA) facilities. These include the Substance Abuse Rehabilitation and Recovery Treatment Program (SARRTP) and the Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program (ADTP). Other rotations comprise the UC San Diego Medical Toxicology rotation 2.

Furthermore, fellows are required to engage in didactic seminars specific to the fellowship, fostering a supportive educational environment that encourages participation in departmental grand rounds and clinical rotation conferences 4. Each fellow is expected to work on at least one research or scholarly project related to substance use disorders, which enhances their clinical training and research literacy 4.

Life as a Fellow

Fellows experience a balanced life both professionally and personally while residing in San Diego, which is celebrated for its excellent climate, recreational facilities, and cultural offerings 5. The program aims to ensure that fellows not only develop professionally but also enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle in a vibrant city.

Salary and Benefits

The UC San Diego Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship offers competitive salary scales commensurate with training level, in addition to a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance for both fellows and their dependents at no cost. Disability and malpractice insurance are also provided, supplemented by 20 days of paid vacation annually and additional educational days 6. This well-rounded support system is designed to help fellows focus on their clinical training and research endeavors without unnecessary financial strain.

Application Process

Applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited general adult residency in psychiatry and possess a valid California medical license by the fellowship start date, July 1. Additionally, candidates are expected to have good standing in their training with passing USMLE Step scores 3. The program is competitive, particularly for international medical graduates (IMGs); however, it supports exceptional candidates who are US citizens or resident aliens. Unfortunately, sponsorship for H or J visas is not available due to funding constraints 3.

Applications are submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and the fellowship participates in the NRMP Match process. Furthermore, international medical graduates are required to demonstrate significant U.S. clinical experience and provide documentation satisfying the California Medical Board requirements 3.