University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program

The University of New Mexico School of Medicine offers a one-year, ACGME accredited Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry, which is designed to provide medical professionals with a comprehensive training experience in addiction psychiatry. The program incorporates cutting-edge research, in-depth didactics, and diverse clinical experiences, all aimed at shaping highly skilled clinicians, researchers, and leaders in the field of addiction medicine.

New Mexico serves as a unique backdrop for training, providing exposure to its diverse and historically underserved populations in both urban and rural settings. This opportunity enhances fellows' proficiency in delivering evidence-based psychosocial, behavioral, and pharmacologic treatments for various substance use disorders (SUD) and co-occurring conditions, all within a culturally sensitive framework.

Notable Program Features

The program's curriculum includes:

• Training in motivational interviewing techniques taught by nationally renowned experts.
• Multidisciplinary treatment approaches tailored for pregnant women with SUD.
• Management of chronic pain and responsible opioid stewardship.
• Co-training opportunities with fellows in Addiction Medicine across inpatient and outpatient settings.
• Collaboration with the Indian Health Service to promote treatment and education nationwide.
• Access to weekly didactics and case consultations via ECHO clinics.
• Participation in ongoing clinical research addressing local and statewide policy issues related to addiction.
• A strong emphasis on fellow well-being and lifestyle balance.

This fellowship prides itself on fostering an environment where fellows can engage in scientific exploration while building on their clinical competencies.

Clinical Training

Fellows will rotate through various supervised placements, gaining substantial expertise in treating adult and adolescent populations with a full range of SUDs and co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Key clinical training sites include:

• University of New Mexico Addiction and Substance Abuse Programs (ASAP): An outpatient program that provides comprehensive care, including case management and opioid treatment programs.
• Dual Diagnosis Resident Clinic: A continuity clinic offering care for patients with co-occurring mental illnesses, facilitating a learning environment for fellows to supervise residents.
• Truman Health Services: This site focuses on providing care to individuals living with HIV/AIDS, integrating behavioral health services.
• UNM Pain Consultation and Treatment Center: The only center in New Mexico dedicated to chronic pain treating modalities.
• New Mexico VA Healthcare System: Offers clinical experiences specifically designed to cater to veteran populations, focusing on PTSD and substance use disorders.

Didactics and Research Opportunities

The fellowship emphasizes a rigorous didactic experience with weekly sessions led by board-certified faculty across multiple disciplines. These sessions foster an enriching learning environment that prepares fellows for Board certification. In addition to regular grand rounds, fellows can engage in the Addiction Psychiatry journal club and telehealth initiatives through ECHO clinics, such as Medications for Opioid Use Disorders ECHO.

Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship. The University of New Mexico holds the status of the Southwest Node for the NIDA Clinical Trials Network, allowing fellows to engage in significant clinical research projects. This involvement includes quality improvement initiatives and opportunities to present findings at both local and national conferences.

Application Process and Requirements

To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:

• Completion of an ACGME accredited general adult residency in psychiatry.
• Eligibility for a New Mexico Medical License and DEA registration.
• Capability to bill Medicaid and Medicare for provided services.
• International applicants must have a valid work permit or be eligible for a J-1 visa; please note that H-1B visas are not sponsored.

Application materials must be submitted through the ERAS system, and a personal statement detailing interest in addiction medicine is required.

Competitiveness and Support

The program is competitive and seeks individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to the field of addiction psychiatry. Its welcoming stance towards diversity includes support for DO and IMG applicants, which enhances the richness of training experiences. Fellow well-being is prioritized through a focus on balanced professional and personal lives, emphasizing a healthy training environment.