A liaison fellowship on a hemodialysis unit. A self-funded position

The practice of liaison psychiatry has from its inception been hampered by an inadequate or non-existing funding base. A model is presented for funding an authentic liaison training program, fully supported by consultation-generated revenue. A specific description of the liaison teaching unit is given, which illustrates how the following objectives of the program were successfully met: provision of comprehensive biopsychosocial care, dissemination of psychological skills and knowledge to nonpsychiatrist staff, training of the liaison fellow, and generation of sufficient revenue to offset its costs.