University of Utah Health Program
Location:
Salt Lake City, UTSpecialty:
Child and adolescent psychiatryACGME Code:
4054921127The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Utah Health is strategically located in the scenic foothills of the Salt Lake Valley, particularly within the Huntsman Mental Health Institute (HMHI). This institute is a distinguished free-standing academic psychiatric hospital situated just minutes away from Primary Children’s Hospital and the larger University of Utah Health Hospital. The program is designed to serve a broad population, providing care to children and adolescents across Utah and the wider Mountain West, including neighboring states like Idaho, Nevada, and Wyoming. The fellowship emphasizes an inclusive approach by accepting patients globally through its Comprehensive Assessment and Treatment program 1.
In 2019, the Huntsman family made a significant investment of $150 million to bolster the University's endeavors in mental health, establishing the Huntsman Mental Health Institute as a leader in clinical care and research 1. The program is supported by over 40 full-time faculty members, providing fellows with diverse learning and mentorship experiences. Furthermore, fellows have unique opportunities for research, collaborating with over 10 research labs and 30 faculty members who possess various research specializations 1.
Clinical Training and Curriculum
The fellowship's curriculum is structured to ensure comprehensive learning throughout the two-year program. The first year incorporates three months on the inpatient unit at HMHI, where fellows work with a variety of child and adolescent psychiatric cases in a robust environment servicing 66 inpatient beds 7. Following this, fellows spend four months in day treatment programs, enhancing their skills in group and family therapy, particularly for adolescents facing substance use disorders.
During the second year, fellows have the opportunity to engage in outpatient clinical settings that include continuity clinics and integrated behavioral health referrals within Wasatch Pediatrics 7. This rotation not only focuses on treatment but also allows fellows to engage in autism testing and work closely with developmental pediatricians, providing a well-rounded experience in child neurology and developmental evaluations.
Research Opportunities
With a strong emphasis on scholarship, the fellowship includes dedicated time for research and completion of a scholarly project, which fellows are expected to present during grand rounds at the Child Psychiatry Division at the end of their training 2. The program fosters an environment of research collaboration, encouraging fellows to participate in significant academic activities alongside faculty members.
Unique Characteristics of the Program
The fellowship is uniquely oriented towards blending primary care and mental health services, reflecting its mission to provide earlier access to psychiatric care. The program is designed to be inclusive and practical, preparing graduates for diverse work environments in both urban and rural settings 2. An important component of the fellowship experience is the mentorship support system, where each fellow is paired with an advisor to navigate the complexities of child psychiatry, further enhancing their professional development.
Application and Admission Requirements
The fellowship seeks four new fellows annually, accepting both internal and external candidates through the NRMP match and ERAS application system. Applicants must have completed at least three years of psychiatry training in a recognized residency program. Required application documents include letters of reference, a training director's letter, personal statement, medical school transcript, and USMLE or COMLEX scores 3.
Compensation and Benefits
The fellowship offers a competitive stipend along with a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental coverage, paid leave for vacation, and professional development time 6. Trainees also receive educational funds, allowances for meals during on-call shifts, and have access to various university resources and recreation facilities.
Visa Support
The program is supportive of international applicants and may provide sponsorship for appropriate visa types required for educational training in the United States. This consideration makes it a favorable choice for international medical graduates seeking specialized training in child and adolescent psychiatry.
Competitiveness and Diversity
The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Utah is recognized for its competitive nature, welcoming both DO and IMG applicants. This inclusivity reflects a broader commitment to diversity within the fellowship cohort, ensuring a rich array of perspectives and backgrounds in training 3.
Website
Director
Kristi Kleinschmit, MDProgram Director and Vice Chair of Training and Education Appointed Since October 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,868First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
9.9XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Salt Lake City, UT
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Salt Lake City, UT
- Crime Rate and Safety: Salt Lake City has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major U.S. cities. The city is generally safe, but like any urban area, it's advisable to take precautions, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Salt Lake City offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities thanks to its proximity to mountains and national parks. Residents can enjoy skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The city also has cultural attractions like museums, theaters, and a vibrant dining scene.
- Climate: Salt Lake City has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with snowfall in winter and warm temperatures in summer.
- Races and Population: Salt Lake City has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
- Education: Salt Lake City offers excellent educational opportunities with top-ranked schools and universities in the area. Residents have access to quality education from elementary school through higher education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Salt Lake City is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in the U.S. Housing costs, utilities, and groceries are generally affordable, although prices have been increasing in recent years.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Salt Lake City is a few hours' drive away from larger urban centers like Las Vegas (about 6 hours), Denver (about 8 hours), and Phoenix (about 10 hours). This allows residents to take weekend trips to explore these cities.
- Pros: Outdoor recreational opportunities, diverse population, good educational options, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Cold winters, potential air quality issues, some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates.
Interview Questions
