University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (USC/LA General) Program
Location:
Los Angeles, CASpecialty:
Consultation-liaison psychiatryACGME Code:
4090540062The USC/Los Angeles General Medical Center program in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry provides a comprehensive postgraduate training experience for residents in the field of psychiatry. This fellowship is designed for adult psychiatry residents who wish to specialize in the interface between psychiatry and other medical disciplines, focusing on the treatment of patients with comorbid psychiatric and medical conditions.
Program Overview
The Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to psychiatric care in a medical setting. It aims to train residents in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders in medically ill patients, while enhancing their knowledge of both psychiatric and medical issues.
Training Sites
The fellowship is primarily conducted at the Los Angeles General Medical Center (LAGMC), which is a leading safety-net hospital that serves a diverse patient population. LAGMC's facilities are complemented by the resources of the Keck Hospital of USC, allowing residents to gain experience in a tertiary care setting. Regular rotations may also include specialized clinics and other healthcare facilities that provide unique learning opportunities.
Curriculum
The program's curriculum is structured to provide a balanced mix of clinical and didactic training, featuring:
- Clinical Rotations: Residents will participate in comprehensive consultation-liaison services, managing patients in various departments, including internal medicine, surgery, oncology, and pediatrics.
- Didactic Learning: The program includes clinical conferences, case presentations, and seminars that cover a wide range of topics relevant to consultation-liaison psychiatry.
- Supervised Clinical Experience: Residents will have direct patient care responsibilities, where they will conduct evaluations and implement treatment plans under the supervision of experienced faculty.
- Research Opportunities: Residents are encouraged to engage in clinical research projects that contribute to the field of consultation-liaison psychiatry.
Competitiveness and Application Process
The program is considered highly competitive; however, it is also receptive to applications from international medical graduates (IMGs) and graduates of osteopathic programs (DO). Specific application requirements include:
- Application Submission: Applicants must submit their application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including required documents such as USMLE/COMLEX scores, medical school transcripts, curriculum vitae, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a dean's letter.
- Visa Support: The program sponsors J-1 visas for international trainees, facilitating their participation in the fellowship.
- Holistic Review Process: Applications are evaluated in a holistic manner by the program leadership, considering various qualifications and experiences.
Resident Life
Residents in the Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry program benefit from a supportive and collaborative work environment. They are encouraged to engage in social activities and networking events that foster community within the residency cohort. Resources for professional and personal development are readily accessible, with an emphasis on maintaining a work-life balance.
Benefits and Salary
Residency benefits include competitive salaries relative to other programs, along with additional perks such as meal allowances, wellness programs, professional development funds, and comprehensive health insurance plans. Paid vacation and leave policies are aligned with ACGME guidelines, ensuring residents have adequate time off to recharge.
Post-Residency Opportunities
Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in various settings, including academic medicine, clinical practice, and research. Many alumni pursue further fellowship training or assume leadership roles within healthcare settings.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
9hrsFirst Year Salary:
$90,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
5.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Los Angeles, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Los Angeles, CA
- Crime rate and safety: Los Angeles has a moderate crime rate with certain neighborhoods having higher crime rates than others. It's recommended to research and choose a safe area to live in.
- Fun activities: Los Angeles is known for its diverse entertainment options, such as Hollywood attractions, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Climate: Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It is generally sunny throughout the year.
- Races and population: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population representing various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Los Angeles is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering a wide range of educational opportunities.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Los Angeles is relatively high compared to other cities in the U.S., especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
- Proximity to bigger cities: Nearby bigger cities include San Diego (about 2-3 hours drive) and San Francisco (about 6-7 hours drive), offering additional urban experiences.
- Pros: Exciting cultural opportunities, diverse culinary experiences, access to beautiful beaches, great weather, and potential networking opportunities in the entertainment industry.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, air pollution, and housing affordability challenges.
Interview Questions
