Virtua Program

The Virtua Program in Geriatric Psychiatry at Stratford offers a comprehensive one-year fellowship designed for those who have completed an ACGME accredited residency in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, or Psychiatry. The program is dedicated to preparing fellows for a career in clinical geriatrics through a multidisciplinary approach and integrated learning opportunities.

The fellowship is accredited by the ACGME and satisfies the requirements for specialty board certification in geriatrics. Qualified candidates must possess a strong desire to pursue a career in geriatrics, demonstrating academic competence and experience that reflects this interest.1

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship curriculum is structured to include three primary components: clinical experience, research, and teaching and administration. Candidates will acquire knowledge in both biological and psychosocial aspects of aging, focusing on the clinical management of prevalent health issues among older adults. Educational methodologies encompass lectures, workshops, Geriatric Grand Rounds, and online learning formats.2

Clinical experiences are diverse, with fellows gaining exposure to primary care and consultative geriatrics within various settings, such as ambulatory care and long-term facilities. Throughout the training, fellows will have longitudinal experiences, allowing for continuous patient follow-up across different stages of care.2

Rotations and Specialty Exposure

The program offers specialty rotations in key areas, including Inpatient Geriatrics, Geriatric Neurology, Geriatric Psychiatry, and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Additionally, fellows will participate in Subacute Care, Community Medicine (such as PACE), and Hospice care. Psychiatry fellows specifically benefit from dedicated rotations in Neuropsychology and Family Dynamics.2

Flexibility is integral to the fellowship; elective rotations can be customized to suit individual interests and professional goals, ensuring a personalized educational experience.2

Research and Scholarly Activity

Engagement in research is a crucial aspect of the fellowship program. Each fellow is expected to participate in a quality improvement initiative or a faculty-led research project. The program supports fellows with didactic training in evidence-based medicine, emphasizing skills in critical literature review, hypothesis development, and research methodologies.2

Teaching and Health Administration

Throughout the fellowship, candidates will develop essential teaching competencies and administrative skills. Fellows will assume the role of clinical educators, guiding medical students and residents while actively participating in multidisciplinary team conferences.

Fellows are also expected to contribute educational presentations, case reports, and assist in the administration of fellowship meetings, enhancing both practical and theoretical knowledge in health administration.2

Application Process and Eligibility

Applicants must hold a valid New Jersey medical license along with CDS and DEA licenses prior to joining the program. The selection process emphasizes candidates' interest in geriatrics as well as their academic performance in prior training.1

Furthermore, as the program values diversity in training backgrounds, it is generally receptive to DO and IMG candidates, enhancing the competitiveness of the fellowship for a broad range of applicants.

Prospective fellows may need to provide proof of completion of an ACGME accredited residency and meet specific requirements related to their medical training history.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international applicants. Candidates may receive support for J-1 or H-1B visa types, ensuring that qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds can apply and participate in the fellowship experience.1