University of South Dakota Program
Location:
Sioux Falls, SDSpecialty:
Child and adolescent psychiatryACGME Code:
4054621164The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program at the University of South Dakota is designed to provide rigorous training and education in psychiatric care, specially tailored for the unique mental health needs of children and adolescents. This fellowship aims to prepare resident physicians for a variety of practice settings, not only in rural areas but also in urban environments, by integrating advanced tele-psychiatric services into its curriculum.
Program Curriculum
The curriculum encompasses a comprehensive approach to psychiatric education, combining both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Fellows engage in a diverse range of activities, including clinical rotations in inpatient and outpatient settings, where they are exposed to a variety of psychiatric disorders affecting children and adolescents.1 The training includes hands-on experiences in three university outpatient clinics located in Sioux Falls, in addition to outreach sites that serve the surrounding communities. This multi-site approach ensures that fellows develop flexibility and adaptability in their clinical practice.
Rotations and Clinical Exposure
Fellowship training consists of structured rotations that cover essential areas in child and adolescent psychiatry. These rotations afford opportunities to work closely with experienced faculty, who are dedicated to providing mentorship while fostering a supportive learning environment. The program emphasizes integrative learning through case discussions, didactic lectures, and clinical supervision, allowing fellows to refine their diagnostic and treatment skills in various psychiatric modalities.1
Research Opportunities
The program encourages fellows to engage in research projects that contribute to the ongoing advancements in child psychiatry. Fellows are supported in publishing their research and may collaborate with faculty on studies that explore emerging topics in the field, from childhood substance abuse to developmental disorders.1
Unique Aspects of the Program
One distinguishing feature of the fellowship is its focus on rural mental health practices. The program acknowledges the unique challenges that rural practitioners face and provides training that equips fellows with the skills needed to navigate these challenges effectively.1 Moreover, the integration of tele-psychiatry into routine practice stands as a modern solution to improving access to mental health care, particularly beneficial for populations in remote areas.1
Support for International Medical Graduates
The program is designed to be inclusive, offering support and opportunities for international medical graduates (IMGs). It is essential that applicants demonstrate readiness for fellowship training, with consideration given to the competitiveness of the program.1 The fellowship is deemed to be highly competitive, hence interested candidates should prepare their applications meticulously.
Visa Sponsorship
The fellowship program offers visa support for qualified applicants. It can sponsor J-1 visas, which are typically utilized for medical fellows, in addition to H-1B visas for international medical graduates who meet requisite criteria. This provision facilitates a broader inclusion of diverse candidates from global backgrounds into the training program.1
Application Requirements
Prospective fellows should be cognizant of the specific application requirements, including eligibility criteria regarding the year of graduation and examinations. The program typically specifies that applicants should not have an excessive number of failed Step exams and must have passed the relevant examinations prior to application. Such prerequisites ensure that candidates possess the foundational knowledge requisite for advanced psychiatric training.1
Scholarship Opportunities
The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship also provides scholarship opportunities to support candidates who demonstrate financial need. For instance, the Shirley May Van Ferney, M.D. Scholarship particularly favors applicants concentrating on child psychiatry with a focus on addressing substance abuse issues in youth.1
Website
Director
Tamara L Vik, MD, BSChild and Adolescent Fellowship Program Director Appointed Since April 2008Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Sioux Falls, SD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Sioux Falls, SD
- Crime Rate and Safety: Sioux Falls has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the U.S., making it a safe place to live.
- Fun Activities: Sioux Falls offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and water activities on the Big Sioux River. The city also has cultural attractions like museums and theaters.
- Climate: Sioux Falls experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snow in the winter months.
- Races and Population: Sioux Falls has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, creating a welcoming and inclusive community.
- Education: The city has good public and private schools, as well as higher education institutions like the University of Sioux Falls and Augustana University.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Sioux Falls is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to reside.
- Neaby Cities: Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota. The nearest bigger cities are Minneapolis, MN, and Omaha, NE, which are both approximately a 3-hour drive away. Minneapolis offers a vibrant urban experience with cultural attractions, while Omaha is known for its zoo and museums.
- Pros: Low crime rate, affordable cost of living, diverse population, and plenty of recreational activities.
- Cons: Cold winters and distance from larger cities for more diverse entertainment options.
Interview Questions
