Our Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology / Dementia Fellowship Program offers a comprehensive, competency-based curriculum designed to meet the accreditation requirements of the United Council of Neurologic Subspecialties (UCNS). The program integrates clinical care, research, and education to prepare fellows for success in the field of neurobehavioral medicine.
Patient Care and Clinical Excellence
- Fellows will develop proficiency in conducting cognitive assessments and formulating differential diagnoses, treatment plans, and assessments for patients with behavioral and neuropsychiatric disorders.
- Fellows will learn to develop hypotheses to explain specific patient behaviors and acquire the skills necessary to test these hypotheses through detailed patient examinations.
Medical Knowledge
- Fellows will gain a deep understanding of the anatomical basis of behavior, the lesions associated with specific behavioral disorders, and the classification of various behavioral syndromes.
- Fellows will acquire comprehensive knowledge of dementia, including its forms, causes, and the genetic and biochemical disorders that contribute to it.
- Fellows will also understand the effects of both toxic and therapeutic drugs on behavior.
Practice-Based Learning
- Fellows will master the use of computerized and non-computerized information systems to enhance patient care and promote lifelong learning techniques.
- Fellows will be able to critically analyze relevant literature and base treatment plans on the best available medical evidence.
Systems-Based Practice
- Fellows will learn about the resources available within the community to support patient health.
- Fellows will also become knowledgeable about available resources to assist patients with behavioral disorders, as well as to support their families.
Education
- Fellows will actively participate in educating patients, residents, and other healthcare professionals, contributing to the knowledge base of the broader healthcare community.
Research participation and Development
- Fellows will have the opportunity to lead or be involved in a variety of research studies alongside their mentors. This may include conducting retrospective studies, becoming involved in ongoing research projects at the University of Florida (UF), or ADRC.
- Fellows will engage in hypothesis-driven research to explore key topics in cognitive and behavioral neurology, and contribute to the development of new research programs.
- Through hands-on mentorship, fellows will gain valuable experience and skills that will prepare them for an independent research career, potentially leading to funding opportunities such as NIH K awards.
Interpersonal and Communication Skills
- Fellows will develop strong communication skills, enabling them to effectively engage with patients who have behavioral disorders, as well as their families.
- Fellows will work collaboratively with peers and mentors to enhance their understanding of patient care and research in the field of behavioral neurology.
Professionalism
- Fellows will cultivate professional attitudes that promote honesty, respect, and dedication to patient care. They will embrace a culture of accountability and be willing to acknowledge and learn from mistakes.
- Fellows will also demonstrate a thoughtful approach to ethical issues in the care of patients with behavioral disorders, including competency assessments and the ethical use of surrogates in medical decision-making.