University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Program
Specialty:
Geriatric psychiatryACGME Code:
4074821036The UT Southwestern Department of Psychiatry offers a clinically oriented, one-year Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship designed for physicians who have completed a four-year residency in general adult psychiatry. This fellowship program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and admits two fellows per year. Upon completion of the fellowship, graduates are eligible to take the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology examination for certification in the subspecialty of Geriatric Psychiatry.
1Clinical Experience
The fellowship provides diverse clinical training across multiple sites, enhancing exposure to various patient populations and care settings. Key clinical experiences include:
- Inpatient care
- Outpatient care
- Consultation-liaison services
- Sleep medicine clinic
- Nursing home visits
- Neuropsychology clinic
- Evidence-based psychotherapy
Fellows are involved with both public and private health care settings, including the Dallas Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Parkland Health & Hospital System, and UT Southwestern Medical Center. A multidisciplinary, team-based approach is emphasized, allowing fellows to work collaboratively with various healthcare professionals in managing geriatric patients effectively.
1Academics and Education
Fellows receive supervision from faculty members who have completed geriatric psychiatry fellowships and are devoted to the care of older adults. The didactic curriculum includes a comprehensive series that covers essential topics in geriatric psychiatry, complemented by monthly psychopharmacology conferences and grand rounds at the Dallas VA Medical Center and weekly psychiatry and geriatric medicine grand rounds. Additionally, fellows gain teaching experience by overseeing residents and medical students, facilitating a rich educational environment.
1Research Opportunities
Research is a crucial component of the fellowship experience, with fellows encouraged to engage in clinical or basic research projects aligned with faculty expertise. This offers a chance to enhance academic skills and contribute to ongoing scholarly work within the department.
1Program Structure
The fellowship comprises two six-month rotations, starting on July 1. One rotation focuses on the VA Medical Center, involving inpatient care and outpatient evaluations. The second rotation allows fellows to participate in outpatient services at various clinics, ensuring diverse experiences. A continuity clinic provides a platform for long-term patient follow-up.
1Didactic Components
Fellows participate in scheduled seminars and conferences, including:
- Weekly Geriatric Psychiatry Fellow Didactics
- Monthly VA Grand Rounds
- Monthly VA Psychopharmacology Conference
- Department of Psychiatry Grand Rounds (select Wednesdays)
- Weekly Geriatric Medicine Grand Rounds during outpatient rotations
Engagement in these activities helps fellows systematically acquire foundational knowledge while contributing to clinical discussions.
1Application Information
To apply for the fellowship, candidates must submit a fellowship application packet, which includes:
- Application photo
- Curriculum Vitae
- Personal statement
- Official medical school transcript
- Copy of medical school diploma
- Residency training program diploma
- USMLE Step I, II, III score reports
- ECFMG certificate
- Visa status
- Three letters of recommendation
All application materials should be mailed to the Department of Psychiatry at the designated address within UT Southwestern Medical Center.
1Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program provides visa support for international medical graduates. It is important for applicants to clarify their visa status and any requirements when applying for fellowship positions.
The fellowship is considered competitive, and candidates are expected to have completed an ACGME-accredited psychiatry residency program prior to entering the fellowship.
2Fellows and Alumni
A significant number of fellowship graduates have established careers in geriatric psychiatry, engaging in various roles such as academic teaching, private practice, and consultation for long-term care facilities. Many alumni remain integrated within UT Southwestern or have secured positions at other reputable institutions. This demonstrates the program's efficacy in preparing fellows for successful careers in the field of geriatric psychiatry.
1Website
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Director
Rajbir S Bakshi, MBBS, MDProgram Director Appointed Since July 2012 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
40 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
8 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$80,521First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
5XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Dallas, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Dallas, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Dallas has both safe and less safe neighborhoods. It's essential to research the specific area where you plan to live to ensure safety.
- Fun Activities: Dallas offers a diverse range of activities such as museums, parks, sports events, vibrant nightlife, and delicious dining options.
- Climate: Dallas has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity during summer months.
- Races and Population: Dallas is a diverse city with a significant population of Hispanic, African American, and White residents.
- Education: Dallas is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities to residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Dallas is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the U.S. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Dallas is approximately a 4-hour drive from Houston and a 3-hour drive from Austin. Both cities offer unique cultural experiences and amenities.
- Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, affordable cost of living.
- Cons: Traffic congestion, humid summers, safety concerns in some neighborhoods.