University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program
Specialty:
Geriatric medicine (Internal medicine)ACGME Code:
1513421093The Geriatric Medicine fellowship at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine offers an extensive, one-year training program designed for physicians who wish to specialize in geriatric medicine. The program is particularly focused on developing the skills necessary to care for the diverse and complex needs of the elderly population. Applicants to the fellowship must be board-eligible or board-certified in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine from an ACGME accredited residency program. Candidates should also have completed Step 3 of the USMLE, and, for international medical graduates, holding an ECFMG certificate is required.
1Training at this fellowship program is comprehensive, with fellows completing rotations at both the University of New Mexico Health System and the Veterans Administration Hospital (VA). The curriculum is designed to strengthen clinical judgment, professional ethics, and skill development in geriatrics. Notably, the University operates a dedicated Senior Health Center, focusing on the special ambulatory care needs of older patients. The VA Hospital complements this with its ambulatory care program, home care initiatives, and rehabilitation services.
1Curriculum Overview
The fellowship's clinical experience is structured into one- to two-month block rotations, each providing exposure to various geriatric subspecialties. The curriculum includes:
- Audiology
- Dermatology
- Ethics
- Geropsychiatry
- HIV & the Older Patient
- Home-based primary care (with the VA)
- Hospice and palliative care (inpatient and outpatient)
- Indian Health (at Zuni Pueblo, requiring a 3-week commitment)
- Inpatient (UNM Hospital)
- Nursing home medical directorship
- Neurology
- Neuropsychology testing
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation
- Rheumatology
- Sleep disorders
- Urology
- Oncology
Fellows also have the option to select two months of electives from various subspecialties, allowing for personalized educational experiences tailored to the fellow's interests and professional goals.
1Educational Experiences
The educational component of the fellowship includes attending regular teaching conferences, such as Geriatric Interest Rounds, Journal Club, and Internal Medicine Grand Rounds. Additionally, each fellow is required to engage in a quality improvement project and is encouraged to present this work at national conferences, further facilitating network building and knowledge dissemination.
1The program provides all necessary materials to prepare fellows for the geriatric medicine certificate of added qualifications board examination.
1Training Facilities
The primary training facilities for this fellowship are the UNM Hospital and the VA Medical Center, both of which are recognized as the largest teaching hospitals in New Mexico. Such robust training platforms ensure that fellows receive exposure to a broad spectrum of cases and patient needs, enhancing practical learning opportunities.
1Competitive Nature and Visa Support
The fellowship is characterized as highly competitive, welcoming a diverse array of applicants. It maintains a friendly stance toward both DO applicants and international medical graduates. Visa sponsorship is available for J-1 visas, providing necessary support for eligible international candidates seeking to undertake this advanced training.
1Application Requirements
Applicants should ensure they meet specific requirements, which typically include a maximum of one failed Step exam, as well as timelines relating to their year of graduation from training programs. The application process is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).
1Leave Policies
The fellowship program allows for 21 days of annual leave, in addition to 21 days of paid sick leave and half-day wellness days quarterly, which contribute to the overall well-being of the fellows. There are also 5 days allocated for conference attendance, promoting professional development through engagement in educational experiences.
1Website
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Director
Alexander C Deradke, DOAssistant Professor in Geriatric Medicine Appointed Since July 2024 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
40 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
10 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$65,553First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
2XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
Albuquerque, NM
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque, NM is a city rich in culture and history. Here is a breakdown of what it's like living in Albuquerque:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Albuquerque has some areas with higher crime rates, so it's essential to research specific neighborhoods for safety.
- Fun Activities: Albuquerque offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and hot air ballooning. The city also has a vibrant arts scene and hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year.
- Climate: Albuquerque experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for temperature fluctuations throughout the day.
- Races and Population: Albuquerque has a diverse population with a mix of Hispanic, Native American, White, and other ethnicities.
- Education: Albuquerque is home to the University of New Mexico, providing educational opportunities and contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Albuquerque is relatively low compared to other major cities, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Albuquerque is about a 4-hour drive from Phoenix, AZ, and a 6-hour drive from Denver, CO. These cities offer additional cultural and entertainment options.
Pros: Rich culture, diverse population, lower cost of living.
Cons: Some areas with higher crime rates, temperature fluctuations.