University of Rochester Program
Location:
Rochester, NYSpecialty:
Geriatric psychiatryACGME Code:
4073532029The University of Rochester Medical Center offers a comprehensive Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship, recognized nationally for its excellence in geriatric psychiatry and related fields. This one-year post-residency fellowship program is designed for graduates from ACGME-approved general psychiatry residency programs. It provides fellows with an opportunity to become eligible for Certification in the Subspecialty of Geriatric Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Two fellowship positions are available each year, with training commencing on July 1. The program's clinical training encompasses a broad array of mental health care techniques tailored for geriatric patients across both inpatient and outpatient settings. This advanced training allows fellows to master skills crucial for addressing the complex psychiatric needs associated with aging, including the impacts of physical comorbidities and psychosocial factors.
Curriculum Overview
The fellowship curriculum is structured to equip participants with specialized knowledge and hands-on experience. It includes diverse supervised clinical experiences and a robust didactic component, as well as opportunities for fellows to achieve personalized educational goals. Notably, fellows are encouraged to ‘build their own track’ based on personal interests and future career aspirations.
The rotation structure is flexible, allowing for exposure to a wide range of clinical settings including:
- Consultation Services
- Acute and Intermediate Inpatient Care
- Outpatient Geriatric Services
- Palliative Care
Additionally, elective rotations are available, such as in Geriatric Forensic Psychiatry, enabling fellows to enhance their experience based on specific interests in the field, which may include research and quality improvement projects.
2Research and Scholarship
Fellows are required to complete a scholarly project during their training, which can take various forms, including literature reviews, quality improvement initiatives, or presentations at national meetings. Each fellow is paired with a faculty mentor early in the fellowship to guide them through the research process, reinforcing the program's commitment to academic and clinical excellence.
6Faculty and Mentorship
The program boasts a diverse faculty comprising nine geriatric psychiatrists and various allied professionals from disciplines such as nursing, social work, and psychology. This multidisciplinary faculty provides fellows with comprehensive mentorship throughout the year, fostering an environment of support aimed at developing both clinical expertise and leadership capabilities.
5Living in Rochester
Rochester, NY is celebrated for its high quality of life and affordability, making it a great city for fellows to live and work. The city offers a rich cultural scene with various museums, theatres, and festivals, as well as a lower cost of living compared to national standards. Such diversity enriches the fellows' training experience by allowing them to engage with a wide variety of patient backgrounds and community health issues.
8Application Requirements and Competitiveness
Applicants to the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Rochester must submit a comprehensive application, including a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. Importantly, candidates must have completed a general psychiatry residency to be eligible. The program is known for being competitive, favoring candidates with strong backgrounds and academic records.
7Visa Support
The fellowship program provides visa sponsorship opportunities, catering to international medical graduates seeking to advance their training in the United States. This support is crucial for candidates who may require J-1 or H-1B visa categories to participate in the fellowship.
1Competitiveness for DO/IMG Candidates
The program is welcoming to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DOs and international medical graduates (IMGs). The supportive environment and emphasis on mentorship are tailored to ensure a broad range of fellows can thrive during their training in geriatric psychiatry.
3Website
Director
Elizabeth J Santos, MD, MPHAssociate Professor Appointed Since July 2014Coordinator
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Rochester, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Rochester, NY
- Crime Rate and Safety: Rochester has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, with certain areas experiencing more crime. It's advisable to research the specific neighborhoods for safety.
- Fun Activities: Rochester offers a variety of cultural attractions, parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is known for its festivals, museums, and a lively arts scene.
- Climate: Rochester experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters, mild summers, and colorful fall foliage. Snowfall is common in winter.
- Races and Population: Rochester is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.
- Education: Rochester is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational opportunities for residents. The city also has a strong focus on K-12 education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Rochester is lower than the national average, making it a more affordable option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: New York City is approximately a 6-hour drive from Rochester, while Buffalo is about a 1.5-hour drive. Both cities offer a range of amenities, entertainment options, and cultural attractions.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural offerings, strong educational institutions.
- Cons: Higher crime rate in certain areas, colder winters.