Desert Regional Medical Center Program
Location:
Palm Springs, CASpecialty:
Surgical critical careACGME Code:
4420544002The Surgical Critical Care program at Desert Regional Medical Center provides a comprehensive opportunity for medical professionals aiming to specialize in surgical critical care. This program is set against the vibrant backdrop of Palm Springs, California, known for its year-round sunny weather and community-focused environment.
The surgical critical care fellowship is designed to equip residents with the necessary skills to handle complex cases and acute care scenarios. As part of a hospital that hosts a Level 1 Trauma Center, which manages around 5,000 trauma cases annually, residents gain invaluable experience in a fast-paced and supportive setting.
Training and Rotations
The program features multiple training sites to expose residents to a diverse array of surgical conditions. Aside from Desert Regional Medical Center, residents also rotate through:
- Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) - Offers a wide range of surgical specialties.
- Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) - Provides clinical experience in a busy emergency and surgical environment.
- City of Hope (COH) - Focuses on complex surgical oncology cases.
- Riverside University Health System (RUHS) - Complements training with additional clinical scenarios.
Housing and transportation are provided at these training sites to enhance the resident experience.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum for the Surgical Critical Care program is tailored to meet ACGME accreditation standards. It encompasses a combination of hands-on clinical experience, didactic learning, and research opportunities. This structure prepares residents to excel in their future careers. A particular focus on robotic surgery is emphasized, with the program providing access to advanced technologies, including DaVinci surgical systems, paving the way for residents to achieve certification in robotic surgery upon completion of the program.
In addition, the program incorporates a rich didactic curriculum that uses the SCORE curriculum, bi-monthly ABSITE reviews, and various educational conferences to ensure continuous learning. Oral board simulations also occur quarterly, ensuring that residents are thoroughly prepared for certification.
Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to participate in research and have the possibility of pursuing a year dedicated to research, which will be influenced by the program's growth and successes. An international rotation in Cuenca, Ecuador, has been established for PGY-4 and PGY-5 residents, promoting global healthcare perspectives and skills.
Community Commitment
The program prides itself on a commitment to serving the underserved populations in Coachella Valley and Riverside County. This community-oriented approach means that residents will not only function as surgeons but will also be involved in meaningful public health initiatives which make an impact on a diverse, multicultural patient population.
Visa Support and Applicability
The program is friendly toward international medical graduates (IMGs) and is competitive in nature, exemplifying a welcoming stance for prospective residents from diverse educational backgrounds, including DO graduates. Visa sponsorship is available for the J-1 visa, which supports international trainees during their residency and fellowship training.
Application and Interview Process
Applications are processed exclusively through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Interviews typically take place between October and mid-December for selected candidates. The interview day includes a comprehensive itinerary that features principal faculty discussions, resident interactions, and tours of the medical center.
While there are no maximum limits on failed USMLE steps specified, a strong academic background and a compelling personal narrative are essential for a successful application.
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Palm Springs, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs is a picturesque city located in Southern California known for its desert climate and vibrant cultural scene. Here are some key points about living in Palm Springs:
- Climate: Palm Springs has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
- Safety: Palm Springs generally has a low crime rate compared to other cities in California, making it a relatively safe place to live.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and exploring the nearby Joshua Tree National Park. The city also hosts festivals, art events, and vibrant nightlife.
- Population: Palm Springs has a diverse population, with a mix of residents from different backgrounds and cultures.
- Education: The city has good schools and is home to the College of the Desert, offering higher education opportunities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Palm Springs is relatively high compared to national averages, mainly due to housing costs. However, other expenses like transportation and groceries are reasonable.
- Nearby Cities: Palm Springs is located about 1.5 to 2 hours away from major cities like Los Angeles and San Diego by car. Both cities offer a wide range of cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues.
Pros: Stunning desert landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, relatively low crime rate, diverse population.
Cons: High cost of living, hot summers.
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