Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell at Zucker Hillside Hospital Program
Location:
Glen Oaks, NYSpecialty:
Geriatric psychiatryACGME Code:
4073511024The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Program at Zucker Hillside Hospital, part of Northwell Health and the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, is designed to provide comprehensive training in the evaluation and treatment of psychiatric conditions affecting older adults. This program focuses on creating culturally sensitive care that addresses the unique mental health challenges of this population. The fellowship integrates clinical, research, and educational components to prepare fellows for leadership roles within the field of geriatric psychiatry.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum for the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship emphasizes a variety of learning modalities that range from direct patient care to didactic training. This is organized into clinical rotations, core seminars, and opportunities for research engagement.
Fellows participate in a structured clinical training schedule that includes rotations in inpatient care, outpatient services, elderly rehabilitation programs, and consultation-liaison psychiatry within various medical settings, ensuring comprehensive exposure to the psychiatric needs of older adults.
1Clinical Rotations
The program offers diverse clinical rotations, which may include:
- Inpatient care for geriatric patients dealing with complex psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
- Outpatient geriatric psychiatry clinics focusing on medication management and psychotherapy.
- Participation in interdisciplinary teams that address broader health concerns, including medical co-morbidities that often accompany mental health issues.
- Exposure to specialized geriatric units and rehabilitation-focused settings to understand the holistic needs of the older population.
Research Opportunities
The program aims to foster a research-oriented mindset among fellows. Trainees are encouraged to engage in research projects focusing on topics relevant to geriatric psychiatry. This includes trends in medication management, psychosocial interventions, and health disparities affecting older adults. Fellows collaborate with faculty to devise and implement studies that contribute to the field, as well as showcasing findings through presentations at national conferences.
3Didactic Education
Didactic training consists of weekly seminars covering relevant topics such as:
- Aging and mental health
- Cognitive disorders
- Ethics in geriatric psychiatry
- Psychopharmacology specific to geriatric populations
- Community resources for mental health support
This structured educational component aims to provide fellows with the critical knowledge and skills necessary to excel in geriatric settings. 4
Unique Aspects of the Program
The Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Zucker Hillside distinguishes itself with its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Residing in Queens, one of the most ethnically diverse areas of the United States, fellows learn to provide culturally competent care to a wide range of populations. The program emphasizes understanding the cultural dynamics that influence the mental health of older adults, enhancing fellows’ abilities to deliver personalized care.5
Training Sites
Training places include various Northwell Health campuses, allowing fellows to experience different care models and settings, from large hospitals to community-based clinics. This variety enhances their adaptive skills and understanding of continuum care.
6Visa Support
The program accepts multiple visa types and sponsors H-1B and J-1 visas for international medical graduates. The program emphasizes a holistic review of applicants, understanding that diverse backgrounds bring invaluable perspectives to the training. 7
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
Entry into the fellowship program is competitive, open to graduates from accredited medical schools along with consideration for those holding essential clinical experience in the prior three years. A passing score on the USMLE Step II or COMLEX Level 2 is required prior to fellowship commencement. Additionally, international medical graduates must have ECFMG certification at the time of application and utilize the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) for submission.
8Applicants typically need letters of recommendation, including at least one from a faculty psychiatrist, and a personal statement that reflects their commitment to working with the geriatric population.
Fellowship Community
The program fosters a supportive environment with a strong emphasis on wellness and professional development. Wellness initiatives include structured support groups, mentorship opportunities, and resources for maintaining work-life balance. The fellowship promotes personal growth alongside professional responsibilities, ensuring that fellows are equipped to manage the rigors of psychiatric training while also prioritizing self-care.9
Post-Fellowship Opportunities
Upon completion, fellows are well-prepared for careers in academic medicine, clinical leadership, and community psychiatry focused on older adults. The robust alumni network provides ongoing mentorship and support for job placement and fellowship applications.
10Website
Director
Blaine S Greenwald, MDProgram Director, Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Appointed Since January 1989Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$91,785First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Glen Oaks, Queens, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Glen Oaks, NY
- Crime Rate and Safety: Glen Oaks is considered a safe neighborhood with a low crime rate. Residents feel secure and are comfortable walking around the area, even at night.
- Fun Activities: The location offers various recreational opportunities, including parks, dining options, and cultural events. You can enjoy peaceful walks in local green spaces or explore neighboring areas for shopping and entertainment.
- Climate: Glen Oaks experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snow in the winter months and milder weather in the spring and fall.
- Races and Population: The community in Glen Oaks is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities. You'll find a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that celebrates cultural diversity.
- Education: There are good educational opportunities in and around Glen Oaks, including schools for all ages. Families with children will have access to quality education within a reasonable distance.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Glen Oaks is moderate compared to other areas in New York. Housing prices and everyday expenses are relatively affordable, making it a desirable location for many residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: While Glen Oaks itself is not a big city, it is located within a reasonable driving distance from New York City. Depending on traffic, you can reach Manhattan in approximately 40-60 minutes, offering access to the cultural and entertainment opportunities of a major metropolitan area.
- Pros and Cons: One of the pros of living in Glen Oaks is its safe and family-friendly environment. However, a potential con could be the limited nightlife and entertainment options within the immediate area, requiring trips to nearby cities for a more vibrant social scene.
Interview Questions
