Kaiser Permanente Northern California (Oakland) Program
Location:
Oakland, CASpecialty:
Pulmonary disease and critical care medicineACGME Code:
1560514153Welcome to the Kaiser Permanente Northern California Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Fellowship program based in Oakland, California. The fellowship aims to provide comprehensive pulmonary training alongside multidisciplinary critical care medicine training. This program is entrenched within an integrated health system serving a diverse patient population, which enhances the educational experience.
This three-year ACGME-approved fellowship seeks to train future leaders in pulmonology and critical care, ensuring fellows deliver high-quality, compassionate care. The program operates from the Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, which is a tertiary care referral center part of Kaiser Permanente Northern California. The medical center serves over 4 million members and has a notable history of clinical excellence and educational commitment, emphasizing diversity, with significant representation in cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Curriculum and Rotations
Core inpatient and outpatient rotations in pulmonary and critical care are conducted at the Kaiser Oakland Medical Center. The fellowship encompasses rotations that cater to a wide range of subspecialty needs.
Fellows will have the opportunity to rotate at multiple affiliated institutions, including:
- Kaiser San Francisco for pulmonary arterial hypertension and cardiovascular surgery
- Kaiser Redwood City in a neurosurgical ICU
- Highland Hospital in Oakland, focusing on a regional trauma ICU
- The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) for lung transplantation experience
Such diverse rotations provide profound exposure to various aspects of pulmonary and critical care medicine, thereby enriching fellows’ clinical experience.
Research Opportunities
Fellows are engaged in research and quality improvement projects, primarily utilizing the extensive retrospective data reflecting the health outcomes of over 4 million Kaiser Permanente Northern California members. Apart from retrospective studies, the fellowship actively supports clinical trials at local and regional levels.
The research environment is bolstered by a dedicated GME research project manager, a robust Division of Research comprising over 50 investigators and 600 staff members, alongside a dedicated bio-statistical unit. This structure enables fellows to access comprehensive datasets, integrating procedure, pathology, radiology, and comorbidity data into their research.
Application Process and Requirements
The fellowship program accepts two fellows annually. Applications are processed through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with a commitment to recruit a diverse range of candidates. Required application materials include:
- A completed common application form (CAF)
- A personal statement
- A minimum of three letters of recommendation, at least one should be from the residency program director
- ECFMG certification (for international medical graduates)
- A color photo
- USMLE and medical school transcripts
The program is open to all qualified applicants, and interviews typically occur in September and October. It is important to note that the fellowship has a competitive selection process.
Benefits and Support
Fellows can expect numerous benefits, including:
- 15 days of vacation and 5 days of educational leave
- An annual housing stipend of $8,000
- A one-time relocation stipend of $1,000
- $1,500 for educational expenses
- A $720 Health and Wellness stipend
- Provision of an iPhone for professional communication
- A laptop with secure access to electronic medical records
Visa Support
The program provides visa support for eligible international medical graduates, typically sponsoring J-1 visas. This support assists in facilitating the transition into the fellowship for those graduates who require it.
Competitiveness of the Program
The fellowship program is recognized as competitive, ensuring a thorough vetting process to identify suitable candidates while actively promoting diversity. The program is open and friendly to DO and IMG applicants, enhancing its inclusive nature.
Additional Information
For questions related to the fellowship experience or specifics, fellows can rely on available mentorship from faculty members who are knowledgeable and dedicated to supporting fellows throughout their training.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$91,289First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
-Residents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
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.
Interview Questions
