About
The Addiction Medicine one-year fellowship is open to anyone holding primary certification from any American Board of Medical Specialty (ABMS). The program is part of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine.
During training the fellow will experience multiple sites in the community, both in outpatient and inpatient. The fellow will take care of a diverse ethnic population from various social economic classes. Committed faculty members provide regular supervision and didactics. The fellow is given the opportunity to co-chair the Annual Hawai’i Addiction Conference. There are also ample opportunities to pursue research, academia, teaching, and public policy making.
The program seeks to train fellows who are well-rounded in clinical work, scholarly research, community service, and teaching. We are looking for motivated and caring physicians who have the heart to take care of this vulnerable population
The fellowship received ACGME accreditation in July 2019. Addiction Medicine is an independent ABMS-certified specialty within the portfolio of the American Board of Preventive Medicine (ABPM).
To lessen the stigma and discrimination and improve understanding and care of those using substances, at risk of developing substance use disorder, and with active substance use disorders, through service, education, and research. To provide optimal care to all patients with empathy and understanding.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic, complex disease affecting individuals physically, psychologically, and socially. We emphasize treating SUD as a medical condition, not a moral failing, encouraging trainees to use empathy and respect. We use a holistic approach considering the underlying causes and co-occurring conditions. By integrating evidence-based practices and collaborating with other healthcare professionals, community organizations, and support systems, we provide comprehensive, individualized care that supports long-term recovery and respects the dignity of each individual.
To graduate competent addiction medicine fellows who can:
- Effectively evaluate and manage patients with substance use disorder.
- Assume diverse contemporary roles, including clinical services, administration, consultation, teaching, advocacy, policy making and research.
- Expand the provision of care within Hawaii’s system of care.
Core Faculty
Our faculty are a diverse group of educators and clinicians who work collaboratively to:
- Educate fellows and other healthcare providers in resources, guidelines, and best practices in the areas of substance use and substance use disorder.
- Create and change local and national policies and laws to expand and improve the treatment and support of patients with substance use disorders.
- Increase awareness and understanding of substance use disorder as a medical condition to help reduce stigma and dispel myths and misconceptions.