Residency Advisor

The University of Connecticut School of Medicine's program in Geriatric Psychiatry provides specialized training focused on the mental health needs of older adults. The program emphasizes a holistic approach, recognizing the intricate interplay between psychiatric, cognitive, and medical illnesses among the elderly population.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum of the Geriatric Psychiatry program is designed to provide residents with comprehensive training in the assessment and treatment of elderly patients with various mental health disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders. This training encompasses both inpatient and outpatient settings, allowing residents to gain hands-on experience in diverse clinical environments.

Clinical Rotations

Residents in the program will participate in a variety of clinical rotations that include:

  • Inpatient Geriatric Psychiatry: Focused on treating elderly patients in a hospital-level care setting, managing acute psychiatric interventions.
  • Outpatient Geriatric Psychiatry Clinic: Offering psychiatric evaluations and ongoing treatment for outpatient older adult populations.
  • Neuropsychological Testing Services: Involving assessments to evaluate cognitive functioning, vital in the diagnosis and treatment planning for geriatric patients.
  • Silver Sage Geriatric Psychiatry Program: This outpatient program engages patients in group and individual therapies, aimed at those requiring a higher level of care without inpatient admission.

Research Opportunities

The program actively promotes research initiatives within the field of geriatric psychiatry. Faculty and residents collaborate on diverse research studies primarily funded by organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Alzheimer’s Association. Participation in research not only adds to the academic experience but also contributes to advancing the understanding of geriatric mental health disorders.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Some distinctive features of the Geriatric Psychiatry program include:

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The program collaborates with the UConn Center on Aging, offering a well-rounded approach to patient care that incorporates insights from multiple specialties in addressing geriatric health issues.
  • Specialty Services: This includes unique offerings like the James E.C. Walker M.D. Memory Assessment Program, specifically focused on cognitive disorders, ensuring comprehensive care for patients and their families.
  • Innovation in Treatment: The program is committed to implementing the latest research-backed interventions, including new medications for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Training Sites

Training occurs at various locations, including:

  • UConn Health Main Building, which hosts multiple outpatient services.
  • The Medical-Geriatric Inpatient Psychiatric Unit, offering a clinically rich environment for residents to manage complex cases of neuropsychiatric disorders.
  • The Silver Sage Program site, where residents can engage in intensive outpatient therapy.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates. It typically provides support for J-1 and H-1B visa types, thereby facilitating training opportunities for those who require visa assistance to train in the United States.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Geriatric Psychiatry program is noted for being highly competitive, welcoming and supportive towards both DO and IMG candidates. While specific application requirements can vary, the program looks for candidates who demonstrate a commitment to serving the elderly population and have relevant academic qualifications. All post-graduate applicants need to have graduated within a certain timeframe, and there are stipulations regarding the number of failed STEP exams acceptable for consideration.

Patient-Centered Care

The program prioritizes a patient-centered approach, emphasizing empathy, respect, and comprehensive care strategies that involve not just treating patients but also supporting their families and caregivers, which is crucial in managing geriatric patients effectively.

Conclusion

This Geriatric Psychiatry program at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine equips residents with essential skills and knowledge to address the complex mental health needs of older adults, preparing them for successful careers in geriatrics.

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Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

1 (1 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2014

Composition

-

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

45hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

28hrs

First Year Salary:

$65,500

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

5.5X

Residents career path:

-

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

-

Location

Farmington, CT

Population
26,712
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
43

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Farmington, CT

  • Crime Rate and Safety: Farmington is generally considered a safe town with a lower crime rate compared to other areas in Connecticut.
  • Fun Activities: Farmington offers various outdoor activities like hiking, biking trails, and parks. There are also historical sites such as the Hill-Stead Museum.
  • Climate: Farmington experiences all four seasons with cold winters and warm summers.
  • Races and Population: Farmington has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities.
  • Education: Farmington is known for its reputable school system and is home to the University of Connecticut Health Center.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Farmington is higher than the national average, mainly due to housing costs.
  • Neighboring Cities: Larger cities like Hartford and New Haven are approximately 30-45 minutes away by car. Hartford, the capital of Connecticut, offers a more urban experience with cultural attractions, restaurants, and shopping.
  • Pros: Safe environment, outdoor recreational opportunities, good schools, proximity to larger cities.
  • Cons: Higher cost of living, limited nightlife options within Farmington itself.

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