Training in a Clozapine Clinic for Psychiatry Residents: A Plea and Suggestions for Implementation

Abstract

The authors sought to develop a model educational clinic and curriculum for psychiatric residents, to increase knowledge and comfort about clozapine prescribing. This matters because clozapine is an important evidence-based treatment for refractory schizophrenia that remains underutilized in clinical practice. This is a description of how the Clozapine Clinic of the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Schizophrenia Program was integrated into the curriculum of the MGH-McLean Adult Psychiatric Residency. PGY-II residents participated in a weekly clozapine clinic with direct patient contact and accompanying curriculum-based instruction for a 6-week period. The method of teaching by participating in a dedicated Clozapine Clinic received favorable feedback. Residents' knowledge about clozapine increased. Residency programs should determine whether their trainees receive sufficient training in the use of clozapine and consider setting up clozapine clinics where feasible.