University of Kansas School of Medicine Program

The University of Kansas School of Medicine offers a comprehensive two-year Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship designed to train psychiatrists who make a significant difference in the lives of children, adolescents, and families. This program emphasizes an extensive variety of clinical experiences and a commitment to training in telemedicine and telepsychiatry, equipping fellows with essential skills necessary for modern psychiatric practice.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum at the University of Kansas is structured to provide a thorough grounding in child and adolescent psychiatry, with residents participating in diverse clinical rotations targeting various aspects of mental health care for younger populations. The first year includes three primary rotations:

• Inpatient and Outpatient Services: This encompasses child and adolescent psychiatry inpatient service and outpatient clinic experiences at The University of Kansas Health System Marillac Campus.
• Residential Treatment Rotation: Residents will compare treatment approaches at two community facilities.
• Consultation/Liaison Service: In this rotation, fellows will work within a large children’s hospital where they also gain exposure to neurology and other specialty clinics.

The second year focuses primarily on outpatient training, where residents will spend significant time at The University of Kansas Health System’s outpatient clinic, complemented by community experiences and elective opportunities.

Training Information

The program's robust training experience is complemented by regular didactics, journal clubs, and the opportunity to engage with various health professionals, including psychologists, nursing staff, social workers, and occupational therapists. Residents will also partake in weekly continuity clinics, and they are encouraged to engage in scholarly projects with faculty mentorship.5

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to undertake research in conjunction with their scholarly activities. The program provides access to faculty mentors who specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry research, fostering a rich environment for inquiry and evidence-based practice.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the standout features of the program is its long-standing commitment to telemedicine and telepsychiatry, which has been a part of the training curriculum for over two decades. This unique training allows residents to connect with patients in rural areas of Kansas, enhancing access to mental health care while also equipping fellows with vital skills necessary for remote patient management. The program includes a weekly morning rural telemedicine clinic, integrating valuable field experience into the training model.

Benefits and Salary

The residency program offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

• Medical and dental plans
• Paid vacation days and medical leave
• Education stipend
• Disability insurance and malpractice coverage
• Paid registration for BLS and ACLS
• Access to a on-campus fitness center

Residents are provided with opportunities for a work-life balance while involved in a demanding yet fulfilling training environment.2

Application Information

The program has specific application criteria, adhering to the guidelines established by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Qualified candidates must have completed a minimum of PGY-1 training, with a preference for those entering after completing PGY-3 or PGY-4 of psychiatry training. The application process requires submission of several documents, including photographs, dean's letters, reference letters, and vitae.4

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The University of Kansas School of Medicine supports International Medical Graduates (IMGs) in their fellowship training by sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas, thus making it accessible for a broader range of applicants. However, it is essential to note that the program can be highly competitive due to its robust training and unique offerings.1

Current Residents

The fellowship program aims to maintain a cohort of eight residents, divided into two training years. Current residents report a positive and supportive environment backed by dedicated faculty who mentor and guide fellows through their development as future leaders in child and adolescent psychiatry.3