University of Kentucky College of Medicine Program

The Addiction Medicine Fellowship at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine is designed to cultivate skilled clinicians capable of delivering exceptional care to diverse populations struggling with addiction issues. Established in 2015 and accredited by the American College of Graduate Medical Education, this fellowship benefits from a multidisciplinary approach, drawing faculty from multiple disciplines across the institution. This program emphasizes a holistic understanding of addiction, providing fellows with broad clinical experiences and educational activities to enhance their skills in treating substance use disorders.

Curriculum and Training

Fellows are exposed to a comprehensive training curriculum that incorporates various clinical settings, including inpatient care, outpatient treatment, medication-assisted therapy, and consultation-liaison services. A longitudinal component allows fellows to engage in continuous care at the Supportive Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Treatment (SMART) clinic, which offers a multidisciplinary team approach to treating substance use disorders (SUDs). This opportunity facilitates managing all aspects of recovery within a structured clinical environment, enhancing fellows' ability to provide evidence-based interventions.

The program includes rotations through several clinical sites such as Eastern State Hospital and the Ridge Behavioral Health System, providing experience in inpatient and residential care. Additional specialized clinics, such as the VA Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program and the Pathways Program for pregnant women with SUDs, further enrich the fellows' clinical exposure.

Research Opportunities

Research is a foundational component of the Addiction Medicine Fellowship. Fellows have access to numerous research projects across various aspects of addiction medicine, allowing them to engage with mentorship from experienced faculty. All fellows are encouraged to participate in scholarly activities, including hands-on clinical research initiatives related to addiction treatment protocols.

Fellowship Benefits and Stipends

This fellowship offers competitive stipends and benefits, which include vacation days, health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as support for educational materials and conference attendance. Fellows receive comprehensive training tailored to reflect their interests and career aspirations, with opportunities identified for professional development and attendance at local and national meetings in addiction medicine.

Visa Sponsorship

The program is open to international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorship, specifically for the J-1 visa. This makes the fellowship accessible to a diverse applicant pool, ensuring that qualified individuals from various backgrounds can contribute to and benefit from the educational opportunities provided.

Application Requirements

Applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program to qualify for the Addiction Medicine Fellowship. Candidates must also possess a valid Kentucky medical license or be eligible for licensure in the state. The application process involves submission through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), which includes required documents such as a current CV, medical school transcripts, a personal statement, and three reference letters from faculty, one of which must be from the applicant's current program director. The program is known for being competitive, attracting a wide range of applicants, including DOs and IMGs.

Community and Living Environment

Located in Lexington, Kentucky—a vibrant city known as the 'Horse Capital of the World'—the fellowship offers an enriching living environment. Lexington features a rich history and diverse cultural amenities, and the community supports numerous recreational and educational activities. The metropolitan area has grown significantly and provides a backdrop conducive to professional and personal development.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Addiction Medicine Fellowship's unique strength lies in its emphasis on a multidisciplinary training approach, benefitting from the expertise of various departments in the University of Kentucky's health system. Fellows utilize a comprehensive network of clinics focusing on substance use disorders, engaging in real-world experiences directly aimed at addressing this critical public health need. This holistic, multifaceted approach provides the fellows with the tools necessary to address addiction issues comprehensively.