Clinica Sierra Vista - Bakersfield Program
Location:
Bakersfield, CASpecialty:
Family medicineACGME Code:
1200500738NRMP Program Code:
1708120C0The Rio Bravo Family Medicine Residency Program (RBFMRP) is a three-year postgraduate training program that offers six residency positions each year. The program is conducted at Clinica Sierra Vista, a Federally Qualified Health Center located in Kern County, California. RBFMRP has established an academic affiliation with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and has been accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) since 2014. The primary objective of the program is to prepare and retain Family Medicine physicians who are dedicated to serving underserved populations in California's central San Joaquin Valley.1
Curriculum and Rotations
The RBFMRP provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster the development of competent and compassionate family physicians. Throughout the three years, residents will engage in a variety of rotations across different medical disciplines, ensuring they gain the necessary skills to practice Family Medicine effectively. Core rotations typically include internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, psychiatry, and outpatient family medicine.
Training Environment
Additional training takes place in various settings, including outpatient community clinics, emergency departments, and hospitals. The program emphasizes a community-oriented primary care approach, where residents will participate in the care of patients across diverse socio-economic backgrounds. This training aligns with the program's commitment to address the health disparities prevalent in the region.
Research and Community Involvement
Residents are encouraged to engage in research activities that focus on issues relevant to family medicine and community health. The program faculty support residents in developing their research ideas, guiding them through the process to ensure that their findings can contribute to evidence-based practices in the field. In addition, the program values community involvement, with residents participating in outreach programs aimed at improving health literacy and access to healthcare services for underserved populations.1
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the standout features of the RBFMRP is its integration with various community services such as behavioral health, dental care, pediatrics, and more, all provided at the East Niles Community Health Center. This integrated approach allows residents to experience firsthand how to provide holistic care to their patients.1
Training Sites
Residents will spend a significant portion of their training at Clinica Sierra Vista's East Niles Community Health Center, which is known for its focus on serving low-income and medically underserved populations. This training site fosters a supportive environment to nurture the clinical skills and knowledge of residents, preparing them for future practice in diverse settings.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The RBFMRP is considered to be friendly towards international medical graduates (IMGs) and carries no specific restrictions that would unfavorably impact DO or IMG applicants. The program offers support for J-1 visa sponsorship, which is commonly necessary for international residents.1
Application Requirements
Applicants to the RBFMRP must be graduates of medical schools accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). Those who graduated from international medical schools must possess a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certificate. Furthermore, applicants should have already completed both Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE or the COMLEX, with scores that meet the program’s criteria for satisfaction. Notably, candidates should have graduated from medical school no more than three years prior to the start of the residency program.1
Benefits and Support
The RBFMRP offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, ensuring residents can focus on their training without undue financial stress. Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement options, vacation time, and sick leave.1
Website
Director
Carol Stewart, MDProgram Director Appointed Since June 2014Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$68,000First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
12 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
210Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
1708120C0
2024
8 of 82023
6 of 82022
6 of 62021
6 of 62020
8 of 8Location
Bakersfield, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Bakersfield, CA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Bakersfield has a moderate crime rate, with areas that are safer than others. It's always good to research specific neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Bakersfield offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains, visiting museums, and attending local events.
- Climate: Bakersfield has a hot desert climate with dry, hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for very high temperatures in the summer.
- Races and Population: Bakersfield has a diverse population with a significant Hispanic and Caucasian community.
- Education: Bakersfield has several educational institutions including California State University, Bakersfield.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Bakersfield is lower than in many other parts of California, making it more affordable.
- Proximity to Big Cities: Bakersfield is located about 2 hours away from Los Angeles by car. Los Angeles offers a wide range of cultural activities and entertainment options.
- Pros: Lower cost of living compared to other areas in California, diverse population, proximity to Los Angeles.
- Cons: Hot summers, moderate crime rate in some areas.
Interview Questions
