University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Program

The 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.

Clinical 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.

Academics 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.

Research 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.

Program 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.

Didactic 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.

Application 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.

Visa 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.

Fellows 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.