The Highland Hospital Emergency Medicine Residency Program offers a comprehensive and cutting-edge training environment for residents aspiring to excel in emergency medicine. Established in 1980, the program is one of the oldest in the nation and emphasizes diversity, community, quality, compassion, and dynamic training experiences.1
Being situated in the heart of the Bay Area, the program provides residents with the opportunity to live in vibrant cities such as Oakland, Berkeley, or San Francisco, which are known for their cultural richness and diverse recreational activities. The location allows easy access to nature and outdoor adventures, from the Pacific Coast to the Sierra Nevada mountains.1
Curriculum Overview
The residency program consists of a robust curriculum characterized by a combination of clinical rotations, didactic sessions, and research opportunities. The curriculum is designed to prepare residents for the complexities of emergency medicine while fostering autonomy and leadership skills.
Clinical Rotations
Residents engage in diverse rotations that encompass various aspects of emergency medicine, including trauma, pediatrics, and critical care. The program features specialized elective opportunities, such as Wilderness Medicine and Neonatal Resuscitation, which enhance residents' skill set in unique areas.1
Didactic Curriculum
The didactic component integrates formal lectures, simulation sessions, and resident-led case conferences. Regular morning conferences, journal clubs, and sessions for procedural skills training ensure that residents are continuously learning and applying medical knowledge in a collaborative and supportive environment.1
Research Opportunities
The program is recognized nationally for its research in emergency ultrasound, promoting residents to participate actively in innovative studies. Faculty members—who are leaders in the field—mentor residents in developing research projects that contribute to the advancement of emergency care practices.1
Unique Aspects of the Program
The Highland Emergency Medicine residency program sets itself apart with a strong sense of community and collaboration among residents and faculty. Residents are involved in selecting incoming classes, creating a familial atmosphere that enhances their training experience. Additionally, the program is noted for its commitment to social justice and public health, which aligns with the mission of Alameda Health System to provide equitable care for diverse populations.1
Training Sites
The primary training site is Highland Hospital, a Level 1 trauma center serving as an EMS base station for the East Bay. The facility boasts a modern 26,000 square foot emergency department, equipped with advanced technology to support high-quality patient care, ensuring that residents gain experience in a state-of-the-art clinical setting.1
Visa Support and Application Requirements
The Highland Emergency Medicine Program does not sponsor visa applications for residency candidates. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or have appropriate visa statuses, such as those holding work visas. Special application requirements include the necessity for candidates to pass all USMLE steps by the end of their second residency year to meet California medical board requirements for licensure.1
Competitiveness
The residency program is known to be competitive. Acceptance rates and the number of applications received annually reflect a rigorous selection process. It has been deemed friendly to DO and IMG candidates, encouraging a diverse applicant pool.1
Living in the Bay Area
The Bay Area not only plays host to a thriving medical community but also features various cultural and recreational opportunities. Residents have access to numerous outdoor activities, fine dining, cultural events, and professional sports teams, enhancing their overall residency experience.1
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Director
David K Duong, MD, MSProgram Director Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$78,051First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
13 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
1041110C0
2024
11 of 112023
11 of 112022
12 of 122021
11 of 122020
11 of 11Location
Oakland, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Oakland, CA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Oakland has had higher crime rates compared to other areas in California. However, certain neighborhoods are safer than others. It's recommended to research specific areas before choosing a place to live.
- Fun Activities: Oakland offers a vibrant arts scene, diverse cuisine, proximity to wineries in Napa Valley, and outdoor activities in nearby parks like Redwood Regional Park.
- Climate: Oakland has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers. Temperatures rarely go below freezing or above 90°F, making it relatively comfortable year-round.
- Races and Population: Oakland is known for its diverse population with a mix of ethnicities and cultures, contributing to a rich tapestry of communities.
- Education: Oakland has a variety of education options, including public and private schools, universities like UC Berkeley and Mills College, and cultural institutions like the Oakland Museum of California.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Oakland is relatively high, especially housing costs. It's essential to budget accordingly and consider roommates or shared housing options.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Oakland is about a 30-minute drive to San Francisco, a major city with cultural attractions, tech hubs, and a bustling nightlife. San Jose is approximately an hour's drive away, providing access to Silicon Valley opportunities.
- Pros: Cultural diversity, proximity to San Francisco, variety of dining options, good weather.
- Cons: Higher crime rates in some areas, expensive cost of living, traffic congestion.