University of Colorado (University Hospital) Program

The University of Colorado Addiction Medicine Fellowship is a one-year multidisciplinary program designed to equip fellows with advanced training in the evaluation, prevention, and treatment of substance use disorders. The program, with ACGME Program Number: 4040740001, emphasizes a comprehensive approach to addiction medicine by integrating education, research, patient care, and community services into its training. This program is offered through the Department of Family Medicine at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus.

In the spirit of ensuring inclusivity and respect, the program is committed to cultivating a diverse educational environment that promotes equity and health justice. The program actively seeks to attract a wide array of candidates, helping to prepare them for leadership roles in the ever-evolving field of addiction medicine.

Curriculum Overview

The core curriculum of the program features clinical rotations that are essential for a well-rounded experience in addiction medicine. Fellows participate in various clinical environments, encompassing longitudinal continuity clinics, residential treatment programs, outpatient treatment services, and consultation-liaison services.1

Key components of the curriculum include:

• Residential Treatment at the Center for Dependency, Addiction, and Rehabilitation (CeDAR)
• Outpatient Treatment Services at Denver Health and other affiliated outpatient clinics
• Medication-Assisted Treatment programs
• Adolescent Treatment programs
• Perinatal Addiction and Recovery services
• Inpatient Consult-Liaison Services

The fellowship coordinates its educational efforts through the national didactic curriculum established by the American College of Academic Addiction Medicine (ACAAM), conducted every Wednesday afternoon. This allows fellows access to a wide range of educational resources, including journal clubs and clinical case conferences that foster scientific inquiry and performance improvement projects.

Application Process

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply solely through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with the application deadline set for October 31, 2024. The program adheres to ACGME eligibility guidelines specifying that applicants must come from accredited programs in related specialties, including anesthesiology, emergency medicine, family medicine, and psychiatry.2

Key stipulations of the application process include:

• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or possess appropriate documentation for training in the U.S.
• Preference is given to applicants with specific USMLE or COMLEX scores, particularly those passing all on their first attempt.
• Letters of recommendation should ideally come from U.S. physicians familiar with the applicant's clinical skills.
• International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are encouraged to be ECFMG certified at the time of application.
• A minimum of one year of hands-on clinical experience in the U.S. is highly encouraged, with gaps in patient care not exceeding two years since the completion of medical education.

Visa Support

The program supports J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship options for eligible international applicants, facilitating their training and residence in the U.S.2

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The University of Colorado Addiction Medicine Fellowship is considered to be competitive due to its comprehensive training, esteemed faculty, and collaborative environment. It is receptive to applications from both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates, highlighting its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

While there are no specific USMLE or COMLEX score cutoffs, competitive applicants will likely be those with strong academics and relevant clinical experience. International applicants are further encouraged to demonstrate proficiency and experience in clinical settings within the U.S., making the program more accessible and appealing to both U.S. graduates and IMGs alike.

Training Sites

The training sites for the fellowship offer a rich diversity of clinical experiences tailored to enhance fellows' competencies in addiction medicine:

• CeDAR/CU Anschutz Medical Campus
• Denver Health Outpatient Behavioral Health Services
• Addiction Research and Treatment Services (ARTS)
• State of Colorado Department of Corrections MAT Program
• Community services such as the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, Stout Street Clinic

This multifaceted approach, coupled with research opportunities and community outreach initiatives, prepares fellows for leadership roles in addiction medicine and positions them to make substantial contributions to the field and their communities.