Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program

Salary & Benefits

The Kaiser Permanente San Diego Emergency Medicine Residency offers a comprehensive, competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support your training, well‑being, and life in San Diego. Details below reflect the most current information published by the program and Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC) GME. (kpemergencymed.com)

2025–2026 Resident Salary (EM is a 3‑year program)

• PGY‑1: $84,277
• PGY‑2: $87,017
• PGY‑3: $90,328 Effective for the 2025–2026 academic year (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Housing Stipend (San Diego)

• Annual housing stipend: $8,000 for ACGME residents/fellows based at the San Diego Medical Center. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Insurance and Health Benefits

• Medical coverage begins July 1 for residents starting on that date; per KPSC policy, medical otherwise begins the first of the month after your hire date (or on your hire date if you start on the first of the month). (kpemergencymed.com)
• Dental and vision coverage available after 90 days (first day following 3 months of employment). (kpemergencymed.com)
• Access to major medical, outside mental health, and dental benefits. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Time Off and Leaves

• Vacation: 4 weeks of paid vacation annually (typically scheduled in two‑week blocks, Monday–Sunday). (kpemergencymed.com)
• Educational leave: up to 1 week, with Program Director approval (in addition to vacation). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Holidays: 7 paid holidays (New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Parental/medical/caregiver leave: up to 6 weeks of approved leave available any time after start date, plus an additional 1 week of paid time off reserved for use outside the first six weeks of the approved leave(s), per ACGME and KPSC policy. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Professional Development and Educational Support

Residents and fellows are eligible for reimbursement of key exam and licensing costs and receive robust educational support:

• USMLE Step 3 or COMLEX Level 3 exam; California Postgraduate Training License; California medical license and renewal (when applicable); DEA certificate (from PGY‑2). KPSC also reimburses one ABMS board exam up to $2,000. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• ABEM board examination fee reimbursement supported by the program. (kpemergencymed.com)
• Approved educational materials (typically up to $500/year). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Travel support to present your own scholarly activity (reimbursed up to twice per year, with approval). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Professional memberships/subscriptions provided by the EM program: SAEM, ACEP, AAEM, ECG Weekly, and Rosh Review (ITE and ABEM preparation). (kpemergencymed.com)

Program‑Provided Tools and Daily Support

• Scrubs, white coats, business cards, laptop, and iPhone (with service) provided at no cost. (kpemergencymed.com)
• Meal allowance for on‑shift meals. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• On‑call sleeping rooms and free parking at all hospitals. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Malpractice, Licensure, and Required Certifications

• Professional liability (malpractice) coverage provided by Southern California Permanente Medical Group; occurrence‑based coverage (no tail needed), with typical limits noted by the program (e.g., $1.5M per incident / $3M aggregate). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• BLS for Healthcare Providers, ACLS, PALS, NRP, and specialty‑required equipment/certifications supported per policy. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Retirement and Financial Benefits

• 401(k) plan with automatic enrollment at 2% employee contribution on date of hire; auto‑increase of 1% annually up to 6% unless you opt out. (kpemergencymed.com)
• Additional retirement/savings eligibility per KPSC policy (e.g., tax‑sheltered annuity plans; pension plan eligibility timelines as defined by hours of service). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Moonlighting

• Moonlighting may be available for licensed residents with Program Director approval; any approved per‑diem hours count as work hours. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Wellness and 24/7 Support

KPSC offers confidential resources to support resident mental health and well‑being:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 24/7: 877‑801‑5751
• KP Behavioral Health Crisis Hotline 24/7: 800‑900‑3277
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call/text 988) Additional wellness resources and links are maintained by the KPSC GME Wellness program. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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Quick Links

• Program site: Benefits — Kaiser Permanente San Diego Emergency Medicine Residency kpemergencymed.com/benefits. (kpemergencymed.com)
• Institutional Salary & Benefits (most current salaries, stipends, and reimbursement details) — Kaiser Permanente GME Southern California: residency‑scal‑kaiserpermanente.org/salary‑benefits. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• KPSC GME Wellness resources: residency‑scal‑kaiserpermanente.org/wellness. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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If you have questions about these benefits or how they apply to you, please contact the program directly or the KPSC GME Office. Benefit terms are subject to change per institutional policies. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Alumni

Our graduates of the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program in Emergency Medicine (San Diego) launch impactful careers across Kaiser Permanente and a wide range of community, academic, military, and fellowship settings. As the first Kaiser Permanente–based Emergency Medicine residency in the country, our alumni network reflects the program’s strong preparation for diverse practice environments and leadership roles. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Alumni outcomes at a glance

• Kaiser Permanente practice sites across Southern California and beyond (San Diego, Riverside, Orange County, Downey, West Los Angeles, Baldwin Park, Oakland; Kaiser Permanente Northwest). (images.squarespace-cdn.com)
• Community and academic hospitals (e.g., Sharp Grossmont and Sharp Memorial, Scripps Mercy, Providence in Portland, John Muir, California Pacific Medical Center), VA San Diego, and Banner/Lassen facilities. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)
• Military/operational medicine roles (e.g., USAF Special Operations Surgical Team). (images.squarespace-cdn.com)
• Fellowship training in Interventional Pain Medicine, EMS, Critical Care–Anesthesiology, Hospice & Palliative Medicine, and Pediatric Emergency Medicine. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

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Recent graduating classes and first destinations

Class of 2023

• Nathan Jang — Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Park / Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Marlene Alvaro — Kaiser Permanente Riverside
• Travis Eurick — Kaiser Permanente Northwest
• Kimberly Allen — Yuma Regional Medical Center (AZ)
• AJ Mannarino — Kaiser Permanente San Diego; Yuma Regional Medical Center (AZ)
• Alex Kursinski — Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Jawad Arshad — Banner University Medical Center (AZ); Interventional Pain Medicine Fellowship, University of Arizona
• Kristel Choy — Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Justin D’Avanzo — Yuma Regional Medical Center (AZ)
• Joey Gerondale — Kaiser Permanente Orange County and Kaiser Permanente Downey
• Ed Kempton — Banner Lassen Medical Center (Susanville, CA); USAF Special Operations Surgical Team (forward-deployable unit)
• Brent Klapthor — EMS Fellowship, University of Utah
  Source: KPEM “Our Residents” alumni slides. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

Class of 2022

• Shane Sobrio — Interventional Pain Medicine Fellowship, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)
• AJ Melis — Sharp Grossmont (San Diego)
• Richard Comeaux — Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Kayla Conover — VA San Diego
• Spencer Darlin — VA San Diego; Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Edwin Contreras — Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic; Interventional Pain Medicine Fellowship, University of Toledo
  Source: KPEM “Our Residents” alumni slides. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

Class of 2021

• Charles Grant — EMA; Palomar Medical Center (San Diego)
• Jessica Andrusaitis — UCI Multimedia Design Education Technology (MedTech) Fellowship; Sutter core faculty, Simulation Director
• Chad Correa — Scripps Mercy (San Diego); now full-time at Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• [PLACEHOLDER: Add additional 2021 alumni placements verified from official sources]
  Source: KPEM “Our Residents” alumni slides. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

Class of 2020

• Nick Montano — Critical Care–Anesthesiology Fellowship, Loma Linda
• Jack Taras — Regional Medical Center (San Jose, CA); Fairchild Medical Center (Yreka, CA)
• AJ Melis — Sharp Grossmont (San Diego)
• Lisa Remmington — Locums in California and Alaska
• Maria Sturchler — Hospice & Palliative Medicine Fellowship, UCSD/Scripps Health
• [PLACEHOLDER: Add additional 2020 alumni placements verified from official sources]
  Source: KPEM “Our Residents” alumni slides. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

Class of 2019

• Mark Lettinga — Indiana Emergency Care
• Jacob Szmulowicz — VA San Diego / St. Joseph Hospital of Orange County
• Kyle Hersh — Scripps Mercy / Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Steve Duley — Locums (Florida)
• Derek Yip — Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Park / Downey
• Caitlyn Gust — Providence Hood River Memorial (Portland, OR) → Kaiser Permanente Northwest
  Source: KPEM “Our Residents” alumni slides. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

Class of 2018

• Andrew Williamson — Sharp Memorial (San Diego, CA)
• Emily Utschig — Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Chuck Yu — Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles
• Kyle Brodmann — Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Andrew Stolle — Scripps Mercy / Kaiser Permanente San Diego
• Seth Meyer — Kaiser Permanente Northwest (Portland, OR)
  Source: KPEM “Our Residents” alumni slides. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

Class of 2017

• Selected placements include Providence (Portland, OR), Kaiser Permanente Oakland (multiple graduates), Kaiser Permanente San Diego, and locums roles across several states.
  [PLACEHOLDER: Add complete 2017 alumni roster with names from official program materials.]
  Source: KPEM “Our Residents” alumni slides. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

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Fellowship training (selected)

• Nick Montano (2020): Critical Care–Anesthesiology Fellowship, Loma Linda
• Maria Sturchler (2020): Hospice & Palliative Medicine Fellowship, UCSD/Scripps Health
• Jessica Andrusaitis (2021): UCI Multimedia Design Education Technology (MedTech) Fellowship
• Lauren VanVoy (2021): UCSD/Rady Children’s Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship
• Edwin Contreras (2022): Interventional Pain Medicine Fellowship, University of Toledo
• Shane Sobrio (2022): Interventional Pain Medicine Fellowship, OHSU
• Jawad Arshad (2023): Interventional Pain Medicine Fellowship, University of Arizona
• Brent Klapthor (2023): EMS Fellowship, University of Utah
  Source: KPEM “Our Residents” alumni slides (Fellowships). (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

Postgraduate opportunities at Kaiser Permanente San Diego

• Emergency Ultrasound Fellowship (est. July 2015) with teaching roles for EM residents and high-volume scanning across KP San Diego emergency departments. (kpsono.com)

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Where our alumni practice

• Kaiser Permanente medical centers: San Diego, Riverside, Orange County, Downey, West LA, Baldwin Park, Oakland; Kaiser Permanente Northwest (Portland). (images.squarespace-cdn.com)
• Community/academic partners: Sharp Grossmont, Sharp Memorial, Scripps Mercy, Providence (Portland), John Muir, California Pacific, St. Joseph Hospital of Orange County; VA San Diego. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)
• Regional systems: Banner University and Banner Lassen (AZ/CA); Yuma Regional (AZ). (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

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Alumni highlights

• Operational medicine: USAF Special Operations Surgical Team participation (Class of 2023). (images.squarespace-cdn.com)
• Graduates frequently remain within Kaiser Permanente, contributing to resident education and departmental leadership in San Diego and regionally. (images.squarespace-cdn.com)

[PLACEHOLDER: Add 2–3 short alumni spotlights with headshots, current roles, and quotes.]

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Stay connected

• Alumni newsletter: The residency maintains an Alumni Newsletter. [PLACEHOLDER: Add subscription link or contact for distribution list.] (kpemergencymed.com)
• Share your updates or get involved as a mentor, speaker, or elective sponsor: Email the residency at [email protected]. (kpemergencymed.com)

[PLACEHOLDER: Add alumni LinkedIn/community directory link if/when an official directory is available.]

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Notes

• This page summarizes outcomes verified from official residency sources and affiliated institutional pages as of February 25, 2026. For additional details or corrections, please contact the program. (kpemergencymed.com)

References

• KPEM San Diego — Our Residents (includes embedded Alumni slides) and site navigation indicating Alumni Newsletter. (kpemergencymed.com)
• KPEM Alumni slide images (Grads 2017–2023; Fellowships). (images.squarespace-cdn.com)
• Kaiser Permanente Southern California EM Residency (program overview; “first Kaiser Permanente–based EM residency”). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Kaiser Permanente San Diego Emergency Ultrasound Fellowship (program description; established 2015). (kpsono.com)

Faculty & Staff

Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program — Emergency Medicine Residency, San Diego, CA. Our team includes more than 90 emergency physicians with diverse fellowship training and areas of expertise supporting resident education, patient care, research, and quality improvement. (kpemergencymed.com)

Program Leadership

• Program Director: Matthew Silver, MD, FACEP

  • Training: Jacobi/Montefiore Emergency Medicine
  • Interests: Educational technology/web development, patient safety
  • Roles: Founding Program Director (San Diego); founding faculty and Associate Professor at the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine (KPSOM)
  • Profile: KPSC GME Leadership (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Chief/Chair, Department of Emergency Medicine: Adam Schwartz, MD, MS

  • Training: Maricopa Emergency Medicine
  • Interests: Clinical information management/big data, ED operations, low‑risk chest pain (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Associate Program Directors:

  • William Krauss, MD, FACEP — Training: HAEMR (Brigham & Women’s/MGH); Interest: Acute pain management. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Jonathan Kei, MD, MPH, FACEP — Training: UC Davis; Interests: Airway management, resuscitation, public health/epidemiology; Academic appointment: Clinical Associate Professor, KPSOM. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Education Leadership

• Clerkship Director: Donald Mebust, MD — Training: UCLA; Interests: Medical education. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Assistant Clerkship Director: Stephanie Diebold, MD — Training: Denver Health; Interests: Innovative didactics, documentation, patient communication, practice efficiency. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Section and Scholarly Leads

• Medical Toxicology

  • Jeff Lapoint, DO — Director of Medical Toxicology; Fellowship: NYC Poison Control/Bellevue; KPSOM faculty. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Katy Welker, MD — Toxicology Rotation Director; Fellowship: Toxikon Consortium. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Emergency Ultrasound

  • Dasia Esener, MD, MS — Ultrasound Fellowship Director; Fellowship: Emergency Ultrasound, Baystate. (kpemergencymed.com)
  • Gabe Rose, DO — Ultrasound Division Co‑Director. (kpemergencymed.com)

• Simulation

  • Charles Chiang, MD — Co‑EM Medical Director, Simulation Labs; Regional ED Coding Champion. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Christina Matulis, MD — Assistant Director of Simulation; Fellowship: Yale Center for Healthcare Simulation. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Research and Performance Improvement

  • Brent Lorenzen, MD, MA — Director of Research & PI; Interests: Informatics, EBM, medical decision‑making. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Chelsea Tafoya, MD — Assistant Director of Research & PI; Interests: Research, QI, global health/disparities. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Quality Improvement

  • Vanessa Hsieh‑Park, MD — Director of Resident QI; Interests: QI/peer review, resource management, mentoring, Women in EM, patient care experience. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• EMS and Disaster Medicine

  • Christopher Scott, MD — EMS Director. (kpemergencymed.com)
  • Rebecca Deross, MD — Disaster Director. (kpemergencymed.com)

• Additional Areas

  • Elizabeth Owen, MD — Undersea & Hyperbaric Medicine. (kpemergencymed.com)
  • Carl Youngs, MD — Wilderness Medicine. (kpemergencymed.com)
  • Faculty Advisors: Chad Correa, MD; Kristel Choy, MD, MS. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Core Teaching Faculty

Our teaching faculty include, among others:

• Eric Abrams, MD; Mette Adkisson, MD; Nicholas Aldridge, MD; Cesar Avila, MD; Paulo Berger, MD; Eduardo Borquez, MD; Kyle Brodmann, MD; Joe Bradley, DO; Darnell Cain, MD; Sonia Callejas, MD; Quetzalsol Chacon‑Lopez, MD, MPH; Alison Celis, MD; Ian Chong, MD; Jenny Chua‑Tuan, MD, MBA; Andrew Ciennik, MD; Rich Comeaux, MD; Kathy Cooper, DO; Spencer Darlin, MD; Michael Del Valle, MD; Paul Dohrenwend, MD; John Edwards, MD; Jacob Gessin, MD; Stacy Gomez, MD; Vik Gulati, MD; Kyle Hersh, MD; Robert Husband, DO; Wender Hwang, MD; Deana Kantartzis, MD; Christian Kelly, MD; Steven Kohler, MD; Ryan Krause, DO; Joanna Law‑Courter, MD; Sari Lahham, MD; Hien Le, MD; Daniel Lee, MD; Bryan Maltby, MD; Jonathan Mau, MD RDMS; Cameron McFarland, MD; Tina McGovern, MD; Mark Meyer, MD; Connie B. Miller, MD; Bhavesh Mody, MD; David Neison, MD; So Onishi, MD; Sam Ontiveros, MD; Angela Pham, MD; Kristina Pfeiffer, MD; Matthew Poliakoff, DO; Peter Sacci, MD; Saema Said, MD; Anthony Salazar, MD; Tim Saylor, MD; Mashal Shamel, MD; Michael Shaheen, MD; Michelle Shaprut, MD; James Smithson, MD; Jen Soifer, MD; Jessica Stern, MD; Andrew Stolle, MD; Clifford Swap, MD, MS; William Swanson, MD; Ashley Tarchione, MD; Jack Taras, MD; Ben Trevias, MD; Emily Utschig, DO; Jon van de Leuv, MD; Jose Vega, MD; Michael Young, DO; Randall Young, MD, MMM; Jon Zackary, MD; Reka Zsilinszka, MD. (kpemergencymed.com)

Administrative Staff

• Residency Program Administrator/Manager: Heriberto “Eddie” Gonzalez
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: (619) 528‑5164
  • Listed as Program Manager for Emergency Medicine – San Diego (KPSC GME) and as Residency Program Administrator on the KPEM site. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Faculty at a Glance

• 90+ EM faculty; fellowship‑trained depth includes at least 5 toxicologists and 8 faculty trained in point‑of‑care ultrasound, plus strengths in simulation, wilderness medicine, informatics, global health, resuscitation, healthcare administration, and public health. (kpemergencymed.com)

Selected Recent Publications by KPEM Faculty

• Kei J, Jang N, Silver M. National Survey of Airway Management Practices and Training Among Emergency Medicine Residency Programs in the United States. Perm J. 2025;29(1):50‑60. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
• Kei J, Mebust DP. Comparing Direct and Video Laryngoscopy Skills Between Resident and Attending Emergency Physicians. Perm J. 2023;27(3):22‑29. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
• Kei J, Eurick T, Hauck TA. Intubation Practices in Community Emergency Departments. Ann Emerg Med. 2025;86(2):169‑174. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
• Lorenzen B, Schwartz A. Changes in Emergency Department Patient Volume and Acuity Associated with Early Stages of the COVID‑19 Pandemic in a Unique Environment. Perm J. 2021;25:20.212. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
• Lapoint J, Perrone J, Nelson LS. Electronic pharmacopoeia: a missed opportunity for safe opioid prescribing information? J Med Toxicol. 2014;10(1):15‑18. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Academic Appointments (Selected)

• Jonathan Kei, MD, MPH, FACEP — Clinical Associate Professor, Clinical Science, KPSOM. (medschool.kp.org)
• Jeff Lapoint, DO — Clinical Assistant Professor, Clinical Science, KPSOM. (medschool.kp.org)

Verification and Directory Links

• Program Faculty directory and roles: KPSC GME — Emergency Medicine Faculty and KPEM — Our Faculty. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Program contact/administration: KPSC GME — Program Page and KPEM — Contact. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Program identifiers: NRMP 1454110C0; ACGME 1100500214. (programdirectory.nrmp.org)

If additional biographical details or headshots are needed for faculty not listed above, please provide guidance and we will populate those entries. [PLACEHOLDER: Add brief bios for individual core faculty as needed.]

Meet Our Residents

Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program – Emergency Medicine
Location: San Diego, California
Profiles current as of February 25, 2026. For full bios, see the program’s official residents pages linked below. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

PGY-3

• Kevin Cabrera, DO — Midwestern University (AZCOM)
• Jacques Lowe, MD — Carle Illinois College of Medicine
• Otto Maurer, MD — University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
• Samer Metri, MD — George Washington University School of Medicine
• Patrick Sheedy, MD — Tulane University School of Medicine
• Edgar Vega, MD — University of California San Diego School of Medicine
  Resident list verified on the official KPSC site. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Cohort snapshot: This senior class brings diverse interests—line dancing, surfing, climbing, basketball, photography—and hails from communities such as North Hills and Orange County, CA; Eugene, OR; Williston, VT; and Escondido, CA. (kpemergencymed.com)

PGY-2

• Angela Chen, MD — California University of Science and Medicine
• Matalin Hegardt, DO — Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine
• April Huckleberry, MD — University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson
• German Lavenant Jr., MD — Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California
• Erik Schatzer, DO — Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Andrew Tabone, DO — Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine – California
  Resident list and medical schools verified; spelling of “Andrew Tabone” cross‑checked with the local residency site. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Cohort snapshot: PGY‑2 residents highlight hobbies like yoga, cooking, concerts, hiking and exploring San Diego’s beaches—many are San Diego natives or regional Californians returning to train and serve. (kpemergencymed.com)

PGY-1

• Ashley Barley, MD — John A. Burns School of Medicine
• Domonique Patterson, MD, MPH — University of California San Diego
• Katherine An, DO — California Health Sciences University
• Lindsay Morrow, MD — University of Arizona College of Medicine
• Madison Demmer, MD — Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine
• Shelby Mills, DO — Western University of Health Sciences (COMP)
  Resident list verified on official pages; “Madison Demmer” spelling confirmed on the local site. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Cohort snapshot: Intern interests range from video games and raves to trail runs, paddleboarding, and early‑morning Torrey Pines hikes—reflecting the program’s active, outdoors‑friendly culture. (kpemergencymed.com)

Resident Voices

What our residents value about Kaiser Permanente San Diego Emergency Medicine (paraphrased from official bios):

• A supportive, one‑on‑one teaching environment with approachable faculty who actively involve residents in procedures. (kpemergencymed.com)
• A culture that prioritizes learning, wellness, and kindness—“it feels like family.” (kpemergencymed.com)
• Strong opportunities to pursue interests such as global health, DEI, and ultrasound within a high‑volume, systems‑savvy ED. (kpemergencymed.com)

Life as a KPSC San Diego Resident

• Wellness and community: KPSC maintains a robust wellness infrastructure with resident representation on a San Diego‑wide Wellness Committee, monthly resident–attending meetings, assigned faculty advisors, quarterly resident‑council check‑ins, and “Residency Families” that connect PGY‑1/2/3 peers. (kpemergencymed.com)
• Living in San Diego: Residents enjoy year‑round access to beaches, hiking Torrey Pines, the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park, Padres games at Petco Park, Coronado Ferry rides, and food scenes in Little Italy, Old Town, and the Gaslamp Quarter. (kpemergencymed.com)

Explore More

• KPSC official residents listing (PGY breakdown, schools): [Emergency Medicine — Residents] (Kaiser Permanente Southern California GME). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Local residency site with bios and interests: [Kaiser Permanente San Diego EM — Our Residents]. (kpemergencymed.com)

Contact

For program details and application information, visit the KPSC Emergency Medicine page or the KPEM local residency website. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Photo Gallery

[PLACEHOLDER: Add current class and group photos with brief captions highlighting retreats, simulation days, and community events.]

Notes on accuracy

• All resident names, PGY levels, and medical schools were verified from official Kaiser Permanente Southern California Emergency Medicine pages and the program’s local site on February 25, 2026. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Contact Us

For inquiries about the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program — Emergency Medicine (San Diego, CA), please use the contact options below.

Program Office (Emergency Medicine — San Diego)

• Primary email (Program Administrator): [email protected]. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Program phone (Administrator/direct): (619) 528-5164. (freida.ama-assn.org)

• Program phone (general): (877) 574-0002. (freida.ama-assn.org)

• Mailing/physical address: Emergency Med Pgm, Ste 1116, 4647 Zion Ave, San Diego, CA 92120. (freida.ama-assn.org)

• Program websites:

  • Kaiser Southern California GME — Emergency Medicine (San Diego) overview. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • KPEM local residency site (San Diego) — contact and program details. (kpemergencymed.com)

Regional GME (Administration & Recruitment)

• Email: [email protected]. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Address: Residency Administration & Recruitment, 393 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91188. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Hospital Location and Directions

• Clinical site: Kaiser Permanente Zion Medical Center
  4647 Zion Ave, San Diego, CA 92120
  Main hospital information line: (619) 528-5000.
  For facility details, directions, and services, see the official facility page. (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)

Medical Student Rotations (Visiting Students)

• For San Diego visiting-student Emergency Medicine rotation inquiries (via VSLO), contact:
  Alysha Fontaine — [email protected]. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Office Hours

• [PLACEHOLDER: Program office hours (e.g., Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Pacific).]
  If you need assistance outside business hours, please use email and the team will reply on the next business day.

Online Contact Form

• [PLACEHOLDER: Link to official online contact or inquiry form, if available.]

Mailing and Deliveries

• Use the address below for mailed documents and courier deliveries. If sending time-sensitive items, please notify the Program Administrator by email.
  Emergency Med Pgm, Ste 1116
  Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center
  4647 Zion Ave
  San Diego, CA 92120. (freida.ama-assn.org)

Additional Resources

• Salary & benefits, curriculum, faculty, and residents: Kaiser Southern California GME — Emergency Medicine (San Diego). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Local program site with additional content (KPEM): contact page and program highlights. (kpemergencymed.com)

Notes

• For emergencies or patient care needs, please contact the hospital directly rather than the residency office. (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)

Accreditation and Directory Listing

• Program listing with current contact information is also available in the AMA FREIDA database (updated February 19, 2026). (freida.ama-assn.org)

Where to Find Us

• Kaiser Permanente Zion Medical Center (primary clinical site): 4647 Zion Ave, San Diego, CA 92120. (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)

After-Hours and Holidays

• [PLACEHOLDER: Guidance for after-hours residency office inquiries (e.g., response times, alternative numbers).]

Life in Our City

Welcome to San Diego, home base for the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program in Emergency Medicine. Our residency is based at Kaiser Permanente Zion Medical Center in the Grantville/Allied Gardens area and the newer Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center in Kearny Mesa, placing you minutes from beaches, canyons, cultural centers, and vibrant dining districts. (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)

Why San Diego for Emergency Medicine

• A program rooted in the community with a local “Things to do in SD!” guide curated by our residents and faculty. (kpemergencymed.com)
• Training at two Kaiser Permanente campuses that serve diverse patient populations across central San Diego. (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)
• The program’s sponsoring site and official residency pages offer additional details on our people, curriculum, and interview resources. (kpemergencymed.com)

Neighborhoods, Commute, and Where We Work

• Primary training sites

  • Kaiser Permanente Zion Medical Center (Grantville/Allied Gardens; address: 4647 Zion Ave). (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center (Kearny Mesa; address: 9455 Clairemont Mesa Blvd). (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)

• Nearby neighborhoods and planning areas (City of San Diego official planning/community pages)

  • Allied Gardens (in the Navajo community planning area that also includes Del Cerro, Grantville, and San Carlos). (sandiego.gov)
  • Kearny Mesa (employment center with growing residential options under the 2020 community plan update). (sandiego.gov)
  • Serra Mesa (adjacent to Kearny Mesa and Mission Valley). (sandiego.gov)

• Community planning resources and maps

  • The City maintains 52 community planning areas with profiles, maps, and updates—useful for exploring housing close to our hospitals. (sandiego.gov)

Cost of Living and Housing

• Housing snapshot (official data): Median gross rent for San Diego city was $2,223 during 2019–2023 (ACS 5‑year). Use this for a baseline; current asking rents vary by neighborhood. (census.gov)
• Regional housing need and supply context: SANDAG notes the region must plan for 171,685 new housing units by 2029, with a majority affordable—one lens on why demand remains high. (sandag.org)
• Rental assistance and affordability resources
  • San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC): overview of voucher assistance, payment standards framework, and renter resources. (sdhc.org)
• City utilities to budget for
  • Trash service fees (new under voter‑approved changes): FY2026 sample base bundles range from approximately $38.94–$43.60 per month, depending on bin size. (sandiego.gov)

[PLACEHOLDER: short paragraph on physician/military loan forgiveness or local cost-saving programs if applicable to residents]

Getting Around

• Public transit (MTS/PRONTO)
  • Standard adult one‑way fare: $2.50; Regional Adult Month Pass: $72. Youth 18 and under ride free on MTS/NCTD with a Youth PRONTO account. (sdmts.com)
• Airport access
  • San Diego International Airport (SAN) connects to the regional network via the free San Diego Flyer shuttle to Old Town Transit Center and MTS Route 992 to downtown hubs. (en.wikipedia.org)

Outdoors and Beaches

• Mission Bay Park: the largest aquatic park of its kind in the U.S., with 27 miles of shoreline, designated swim areas, multi‑use paths, and rentals. (sandiego.gov)
• Balboa Park: 1,000+ acres with museums, gardens, a free tram, and year‑round Sunday organ concerts at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Explorer Pass and rotating resident free Tuesdays available. (sandiego.gov)
• Cabrillo National Monument tidepools: among California’s best protected rocky intertidal areas; winter low tides are prime for exploring. (nps.gov)
• Mission Trails Regional Park: thousands of acres of open space with popular hikes like Cowles Mountain, minutes from the Navajo/Allied Gardens area. (mtrp.org)

Arts, Culture, and Big Annual Events

• San Diego Comic‑Con: July 23–26, 2026 at the San Diego Convention Center; the City has confirmed Comic‑Con’s commitment to San Diego through 2027. (comic-con.org)
• City cultural hub: Balboa Park museums and performing arts, including The Old Globe, offer year‑round programming. (sandiego.gov)
• Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: living history, free museums, and family programs in the city’s birthplace. (parks.ca.gov)

Dining, Neighborhoods, and Nightlife

• Gaslamp Quarter: Historic downtown district with a city‑contracted business association and a maintained dining directory. (gaslamp.org)
• Little Italy: Weekly Little Italy Mercato farmers’ market (Wed/Sat), piazzas, art, and restaurants managed by the Little Italy Association. (littleitalysd.com)
• Liberty Station (Point Loma): 360‑acre arts, dining, and family‑friendly campus featuring Liberty Public Market. (libertystation.com)
• Convoy District (Kearny Mesa): City‑recognized Pan Asian Cultural & Business Innovation District with a new gateway sign and extensive dining options near our Kearny Mesa hospital. (convoydistrict.com)

Family-Friendly Life and Schools

• Parks & Recreation: City recreation centers, ranger programs, sports leagues, pools, and seasonal events across neighborhoods. (sandiego.gov)
• San Diego Public Library
  • Free museum passes via Discover & Go for cardholders. (sandiego.gov)
  • How to get a library card (access to 37 branches, digital collections, and more). (sandiego.gov)
• Schools
  • San Diego Unified School District School Finder (2025–26) and boundary maps. (sandiegounified.org)
  • Countywide School Finder (public, charter, and district directories). (sdcoe.net)

Resident Tips from Our Team

• Our program’s “Things to do in SD!” list highlights local hikes (Torrey Pines, Mission Trails), beaches, Padres at Petco Park, Balboa Park, the Zoo/Safari Park, harbor cruises, and favorite neighborhoods like Little Italy and the Gaslamp. It’s a great starter checklist for days off. (kpemergencymed.com)
• The official tourism site curates current attractions, events, and seasonal deals citywide. (sandiego.org)

Useful Links

• Program and institution
  • Kaiser Permanente San Diego EM Residency (local site): kpemergencymed.com (kpemergencymed.com)
  • KP EM Residency overview (regional site): residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • FREIDA listing (program ID 1100500214): [FREIDA profile] (freida.ama-assn.org)
• City and regional resources
  • Community plans and maps: [City Planning – Community Plans] (sandiego.gov)
  • Parks & Recreation programs: [City of San Diego Parks & Recreation] (sandiego.gov)
  • Transit fares/passes: [MTS Fares] and [PRONTO] (sdmts.com)
  • Library passes: [Discover & Go] (sandiego.gov)
  • Schools: [SDUSD School Finder] and [SD County School Finder] (sandiegounified.org)

Notes and Dates

• Data such as fares, fees, and admissions are as of February 2026; always confirm current details at the linked official sites. For example, the City’s FY2026 trash fee calculator reflects July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026 rates; transit fares and promotions (e.g., Youth Opportunity Pass) are subject to change. (sandiego.gov)

If you need more specifics (childcare options near each campus, car-free apartment buildings along trolley/bus routes, pet-friendly housing, or local faith communities), we can add those with verified official sources.

Clinical Sites

Welcome to the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program in Emergency Medicine – San Diego. Our residents train across a high-volume, integrated Kaiser Permanente emergency system and select affiliate hospitals that deliver Level I adult and pediatric trauma care and a diverse case mix across San Diego County. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Our Kaiser Permanente Home Sites

• Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center (Clairemont Mesa) – Emergency Department

  • Address: 9455 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92123
  • Highlights:
    • Urban, high-volume ED within an integrated health system.
    • Part of the busiest ED system in San Diego County, with more than 115,000–120,000 annual ED visits system-wide and >15,000 pediatric visits. Residents see a broad spectrum of adult and pediatric emergencies in a single, team-based environment. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
    • Designated Stroke Receiving Center within the San Diego County EMS system. (sandiegocounty.gov)
  • Learn more: Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)

• Kaiser Permanente Zion Medical Center – Emergency Department

  • Address: 4647 Zion Ave., San Diego, CA 92120
  • Highlights:
    • Central San Diego ED that, together with Clairemont Mesa, forms the core of our residents’ Kaiser Permanente emergency experience.
    • Featured service lines at this campus include Emergency Medicine, Laboratory, and Pharmacy. (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)
    • Designated Stroke Receiving Center within the San Diego County EMS system. (sandiegocounty.gov)
  • Learn more: Kaiser Permanente Zion Medical Center (healthy.kaiserpermanente.org)

• Optional/expanded Kaiser site exposure:

  • Kaiser Permanente San Marcos Medical Center – Emergency Department
    • Address: 360 Rush Dr., San Marcos, CA 92078
    • A new, LEED Platinum–certified hospital (opened to patients August 9, 2023) that expands access in North County; designated as a Stroke Receiving Center by San Diego County EMS. Opportunities for exposure may be available based on rotation design and electives. (about.kaiserpermanente.org)

• System volume snapshot:

  • Kaiser Permanente San Diego’s ED system operates multiple emergency departments in the county. Program materials note >115,000–120,000 visits annually across KP San Diego EDs; the ultrasound fellowship site cites >130,000 annual visits at the two central EDs (including ~17,000 pediatric). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Affiliate Hospitals and Key Rotations

Our curriculum includes substantial time at high-acuity affiliate sites to ensure breadth of experience across trauma, pediatrics, and community practice models. Approximately half of all rotations occur at the affiliate sites below. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Scripps Mercy Hospital – San Diego (Hillcrest) | Level I Adult Trauma Center

  • Address: 4077 5th Ave., San Diego, CA 92103
  • Why this site:
    • Level I Trauma Center verified by the American College of Surgeons; 24/7 emergency and trauma services at the Conrad Prebys Emergency and Trauma Center. (scripps.org)
    • High-acuity, urban environment with unopposed ED and trauma critical care experiences for residents, including major trauma resuscitations and procedures. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Resident exposure:
    • Dedicated ED months in each PGY year plus Trauma ICU and additional critical care rotations. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Learn more: Scripps Mercy Hospital – Emergency and Trauma (scripps.org)

• Tri-City Medical Center (Oceanside) | Community ED, STEMI and Primary Stroke Receiving Center; Paramedic Base Station

  • Address: 4002 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA 92056
  • Why this site:
    • High-acuity community ED serving North County; designated Paramedic Base Station and Heart Attack (STEMI)/Primary Stroke Receiving Center. (tricitymed.org)
  • Resident exposure:
    • One month in the ED at each PGY level with unopposed procedures, resuscitations, and codes in a fast-paced community setting. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Learn more: Tri-City Medical Center – Emergency Services (tricitymed.org)

• Rady Children’s Hospital – San Diego | Level I Pediatric Trauma Center

  • Address: 3020 Children’s Way, San Diego, CA 92123
  • Why this site:
    • The region’s only dedicated children’s hospital and only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center; ED census exceeded 100,000 emergency visits in FY2025. Residents manage high-acuity pediatric cases across the socioeconomic spectrum. (rchsd.org)
    • CHET (Children’s Hospital Emergency Transport) provides 24/7 critical care transport to more than 2,000 neonatal and pediatric patients annually, with opportunities for resident exposure. (rchsd.org)
  • Resident exposure:
    • One month of Pediatric EM in each PGY year; PGY-2 month in the PICU with advanced resuscitation and critical care training. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  • Learn more: Rady Children’s – ED Overview | Trauma Center | Facts & Figures (rchsd.org)

Rotational Structure at a Glance

• Core ED experience at Kaiser Permanente San Diego (Clairemont Mesa and Zion). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Affiliate ED and critical care experiences:
  1. Scripps Mercy Hospital – ED and Trauma Critical Care (PGY-2/3). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  2. Tri-City Medical Center – ED (PGY-1 through PGY-3). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
  3. Rady Children’s Hospital – Pediatric EM (PGY-1 through PGY-3) and PICU (PGY-2). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Longitudinal and specialty experiences: Emergency Ultrasound, Toxicology, Simulation, Administration/Quality, and EMS/Disaster Medicine (with San Diego County EMS). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Patient Volumes and Case Mix Highlights

• Kaiser Permanente San Diego ED system cares for more than 115,000–120,000 patients annually, including >15,000 pediatric visits; the two central EDs report >130,000 annual visits. Diverse case mix spans adult medical/surgical, cardiac, neuro, sepsis, high-risk OB presentations, and pediatric emergencies within an integrated care model. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Scripps Mercy (Hillcrest) provides Level I adult trauma care with around-the-clock specialty support and a large volume of critically injured patients across its trauma network. (scripps.org)
• Rady Children’s recorded 102,802 emergency care visits in FY2025 and remains the region’s only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center, with robust transport and critical care services. (rchsd.org)
• Tri-City Medical Center serves a large, mixed North County population as a Paramedic Base Station and STEMI/Primary Stroke Receiving Center; residents gain extensive community ED experience and procedural autonomy. (tricitymed.org)

Unique Training Advantages

• Systems-savvy training across integrated, community, and academic environments, preparing graduates to practice in any ED model. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Dedicated EMS/Disaster Medicine curriculum in PGY-2 with SD County EMS exposure. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Robust Pediatric EM and PICU exposure at the region’s highest-acuity pediatric center, with optional exposure to CHET transport operations. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Longitudinal Emergency Ultrasound training supported by fellowship-trained faculty and state-of-the-art simulation resources. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Quick Links

• Program site: Kaiser Southern California – Emergency Medicine (San Diego Medical Center) (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Curriculum details (sites and rotations): Curriculum | Affiliates (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Local residency site: KPEM (San Diego) – Our Affiliates (kpemergencymed.com)

Notes on Designations

• Stroke/trauma designations referenced above reflect official hospital and county EMS information (e.g., Scripps Level I adult trauma centers; Rady Level I pediatric trauma; Kaiser San Diego, San Marcos, and Zion listed by SD County EMS as Stroke Receiving Centers). Residents benefit from this regionalized system through targeted rotations that match site strengths. (scripps.org)

[PLACEHOLDER: Add site-specific parking, call rooms, and onsite amenities once confirmed with each facility’s GME office.]

Application Overview

The Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program – Emergency Medicine (San Diego, CA) accepts residency applications via ResidencyCAS and participates in the NRMP Main Match. The program does not use ERAS for Emergency Medicine. Six PGY‑1 positions are offered annually. Early submission is recommended because interview slots may fill before the stated deadline. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Program site: Kaiser Southern California GME – Emergency Medicine (San Diego) (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Local site: Kaiser Permanente San Diego EM Residency (KPEM) (kpemergencymed.com)
• NRMP Program Code: 1454110C0 (Kaiser Permanente–San Diego, Emergency Medicine). (programdirectory.nrmp.org)

How to Apply

1. Submit your application through the AAMC Residency Centralized Application Service (ResidencyCAS). Emergency Medicine and Ob/Gyn at Kaiser Southern California use ResidencyCAS rather than ERAS. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
2. Register for and participate in the NRMP Main Match; rank the program using NRMP code 1454110C0. (programdirectory.nrmp.org)

Note: FREIDA lists this program as not participating in ERAS and using ResidencyCAS. Always follow the program’s instructions above. (freida.ama-assn.org)

Eligibility and Required Documents

When applying to Kaiser Permanente Southern California residency programs, all applications must include the following (Emergency Medicine–specific notes included): (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Curriculum vitae
• Personal statement
• Medical school transcript
• Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE)
• USMLE Step 1 and 2 (when available) and/or COMLEX Level 1 and 2 (when available)
• Three letters of recommendation
  • Emergency Medicine applicants must submit at least one SLOE (Standardized Letter of Evaluation)
• For PGY‑2 positions (if applicable): a letter from your PGY‑1 program director

Visa sponsorship: Kaiser Permanente Southern California indicates that visas (e.g., H‑1B/J‑1) are only sponsored for hard‑to‑fill positions; applicants should verify with the program before applying. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Key Dates and Deadlines

From the program’s most recent published timeline: (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Application deadline: November 7, 2025
• Interview timeframe: October–January
• Positions available: 6
• Next positions available: July 1, 2026

Future cycle dates will be posted on the program website when available. [PLACEHOLDER: Update specific 2026–2027 application open date, deadline, and interview dates once posted.]

Interview Process

• Format: Virtual interviews (per recent directory data). (freida.ama-assn.org)
• Season: October–January. Invitations are extended by the program; early application is recommended as slots may fill before the deadline. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• NRMP participation: Applicants must register for the NRMP and rank the program (NRMP 1454110C0). (programdirectory.nrmp.org)

[PLACEHOLDER: Add details on interview day structure, platforms used, and optional second‑look opportunities if/when the program publishes them for the upcoming season.]

Visiting Students and Ways to Strengthen Your Application

• Visiting student rotations: The program hosts EM rotations for third‑ and fourth‑year medical students. Applications are submitted via VSLO under “Kaiser SCAL – San Diego.” Applications open March 1, with preferential review April 15–May 15. (kpemergencymed.com)
• EMpowerED Scholarship: KPEM offers a scholarship for a rising MS4 that includes a guaranteed four‑week sub‑internship at Kaiser San Diego and a guaranteed interview for the residency, plus $1,000 toward rotation costs. Application deadline for the most recent cycle was January 31, 2026. (kpemergencymed.com)

[PLACEHOLDER: Add upcoming cycle’s visiting student and scholarship dates when announced.]

Selection Approach

Kaiser Permanente Southern California conducts a holistic review and sets program‑specific deadlines on each residency page. Emergency Medicine requires at least one SLOE among the three letters. Submit all materials via ResidencyCAS as directed. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Contacts

• Program information page (requirements, timeline): Kaiser Southern California GME – Emergency Medicine (San Diego) (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Program email (NRMP directory): [email protected] (programdirectory.nrmp.org)
• Program contact listed on GME site: Eddie “Heriberto” Gonzalez – [email protected] (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Local site: KPEM San Diego (kpemergencymed.com)

Quick Links

• Application service: ResidencyCAS (see program requirements and EM/Ob‑Gyn note) (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Program page with deadlines and positions: Kaiser SCAL – Emergency Medicine (San Diego) (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• NRMP Program Directory entry (code and contact): NRMP – Kaiser Permanente–San Diego EM (programdirectory.nrmp.org)

Notes

• The information above reflects the most recent official postings as of February 25, 2026. Future cycle dates are pending program updates. Applicants should check the program website routinely for the latest timelines and instructions. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

[PLACEHOLDER: Add any new program‑specific FAQs, minimum score expectations (if published), and interview day agenda once released on official pages.]

Research Opportunities

Why pursue research at Kaiser Permanente Southern California – Emergency Medicine (San Diego)

The Kaiser Permanente San Diego Emergency Medicine Residency is the first Kaiser Permanente–based EM residency in the country. From day one, residents are trained to be clinicians, educators, and leaders with explicit support to develop skills in scholarly activity and evidence-based medicine. By PGY‑3, each resident completes a scholarly project and is supported to present at a regional or national EM meeting. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC) embeds research within a large, integrated care system, giving trainees access to real‑world data, quality improvement infrastructure, and mentors who translate findings into practice. (kp-scalresearch.org)

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Mentorship and Research Leadership

Program research faculty

• Brent Lorenzen, MD, MA — Director of Research & Performance Improvement (PI); interests: informatics, EBM, medical decision‑making.
• Chelsea Tafoya, MD — Assistant Director of Research & PI; interests: research, QI, global health and disparities.
• Vanessa Hsieh‑Park, MD — Director of Resident QI.
• Additional faculty mentors span simulation, ultrasound, toxicology, EMS, wilderness medicine, administration, and more. (kpemergencymed.com)

Institutional research partners

Residents collaborate with the KPSC Department of Research & Evaluation (R&E), which houses full‑time research scientists and clinician‑investigator programs that support project design, analytics, and dissemination. (kp-scalresearch.org)

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What residents can study: example focus areas

KPSC investigators actively study emergency care delivery and outcomes. Recent work has included:

• Language concordance and equitable chest‑pain care across 15 KPSC emergency departments (Academic Emergency Medicine). (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Decision‑support to reduce unnecessary head CTs for adult head trauma (Annals of Emergency Medicine). (kp-scalresearch.org)
• COVID‑19 ED triage risk stratification (COVAS score) implemented in KPSC EDs. (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Pediatric emergency visits related to child maltreatment pre‑/post‑lockdown. (kp-scalresearch.org)
• ED utilization among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors in KPSC. (kp-scalresearch.org)

Residents also benefit from a high‑volume clinical environment in San Diego (130k+ annual visits across two central ERs), creating opportunities for operations, ultrasound, and outcomes research. (kpsono.com)

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Required scholarly activity

• All residents complete a scholarly project during training.
• PGY‑3 residents finalize their project and are supported to present their work at a regional or national EM conference. (kpemergencymed.com)

Travel reimbursement for presenting scholarly work at national society meetings is available through the residency benefits. (kpemergencymed.com)

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Research infrastructure and facilities

Data, analytics, and informatics

• Biostatistics and Clinical Informatics teams provide study design, sample‑size/power, advanced analytics, and programming support (R, SAS, Python; predictive modeling; NLP; imaging analytics). (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Robust information and data resources include Kaiser Permanente HealthConnect (EHR), a dedicated Research Data Warehouse (labs, pharmacy, radiology, utilization), disease registries, and the multi‑site Virtual Data Warehouse for collaborative studies. (kp-scalresearch.org)

Clinical research space and laboratories

• Clinical Research Centers in Pasadena and at Los Angeles Medical Center support noninvasive assessments, specimen handling, and research visits.
• A dedicated biospecimen processing and storage center in North Hollywood supports research orders placed through HealthConnect across KPSC facilities. (kp-scalresearch.org)

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How we support residents

Central GME research mission

KPSC GME’s Research Program fosters inquiry, skill‑building, and dissemination for residents and fellows across the region. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Virtual Research Office (VRO)

The VRO is a one‑stop portal that helps clinicians:

• Get research navigation and consults
• Learn “how to do a research project”
• Identify funding sources
• Access statistical support (R2S2) and other services (kp-scalresearch.org)

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Funding and protected support

• Regional Research Committee (RRC): competitive internal grants ($8,000–$55,000; two cycles/year). Residents may serve as co‑investigators with a faculty PI. (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Care Improvement Research Team (CIRT): internal grants ($20,000–$100,000) for projects that improve care access, quality, affordability, and outcomes. (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Regional Research Statistical Services (R2S2): up to 100 hours of programming/analytic support for focused, data‑only projects. (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Travel reimbursement: residency provides reimbursement for presenting scholarly work at national meetings. (kpemergencymed.com)

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Getting started: step‑by‑step

1. Shape your idea
   • Conduct a literature review; draft a 1‑page summary (importance to KP and EM). VRO can connect you to research navigators and scientists. (kp-scalresearch.org)
2. Refine the question and design
   • Ensure it’s feasible, novel, ethical, and relevant; select an appropriate design with VRO/biostatistics input. (kp-scalresearch.org)
3. Plan collaborations and data stewardship
   • If external collaborators are involved, follow KPSC collaborative research policy and obtain required R&E approvals before IRB submission. (kp-scalresearch.org)
4. Identify resources and funding
   • Decide on unfunded vs. funded approach; leverage R2S2, RRC, CIRT, or external opportunities (NIH, AHRQ, PCORI). (kp-scalresearch.org)
5. Draft protocol and submit approvals
   • Prepare a study plan and coordinate required administrative, R&E, and IRB processes with guidance from the VRO. (kp-scalresearch.org)

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Where residents present and publish

Residents are encouraged and supported to present at national/regional EM forums (e.g., SAEM, ACEP) and to disseminate work arising from KPSC data and QI activities. (kpemergencymed.com)

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Selected recent KPSC emergency care publications and news

• Equal treatment for English and non‑English speakers with chest pain in KPSC EDs (Academic Emergency Medicine). (kp-scalresearch.org)
• ED decision‑support for adult head trauma reduces CT use (Annals of Emergency Medicine). (kp-scalresearch.org)
• COVAS risk score helps ED clinicians predict COVID‑19 outcomes, implemented in KPSC EDs. (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Pediatric ED visits for child maltreatment increased after lockdown (Child Abuse & Neglect). (kp-scalresearch.org)
• ED utilization among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology). (kp-scalresearch.org)

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Facilities, clinical settings, and affiliates that enrich scholarship

• San Diego clinical environment: two central San Diego ERs see 130k+ annual visits, supporting robust operations and outcomes projects. (kpsono.com)
• Diverse affiliate rotations (e.g., Rady Children’s, Scripps Mercy, Tri‑City, CHOC) broaden exposure and potential project settings. (kpemergencymed.com)

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Contacts and useful links

• Program page (Kaiser Southern California GME): Emergency Medicine – San Diego Medical Center. For general inquiries: Eddie Gonzalez, [email protected]. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• KPEM local site (curriculum, faculty, benefits): KPEM Residency (kpemergencymed.com)
• KPSC Department of Research & Evaluation (R&E): kp‑scalresearch.org (kp-scalresearch.org)
• KPSC GME Research Program overview: Research – Current Residents (KPSC GME) (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Virtual Research Office: consults, funding, R2S2 analytics, and process guides. (kp-scalresearch.org)

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Current resident projects and recent resident publications

[PLACEHOLDER: Add brief titles/authors for current KPEM resident projects and where/when presented or published (e.g., SAEM, ACEP, Western EM Research Conference), with links or citations once available.]

[PLACEHOLDER: Add annual Research/Scholarly Activity day details, abstract submission deadlines, and internal works‑in‑progress calendars specific to KPEM.]

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At‑a‑glance: what you get

• Dedicated research leadership and mentors within the EM program. (kpemergencymed.com)
• Embedded, system‑level research infrastructure (analytics, data, labs, clinical research centers). (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Structured pathways and funding (RRC, CIRT, R2S2) to take ideas from concept to publication. (kp-scalresearch.org)
• Required scholarly activity with support to present nationally. (kpemergencymed.com)

Residents graduate not only as outstanding emergency physicians, but also as contributors to the evidence base that shapes how emergency care is delivered across Southern California and beyond. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Curriculum & Training

The Kaiser Permanente Southern California Program in Emergency Medicine at the San Diego Medical Center is a comprehensive 1-2-3 format designed to develop superb clinicians, educators, and leaders. Training emphasizes leadership, operations, wellness, innovation and technology, patient safety, systems-based practice, and lifelong learning in evidence-based medicine. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Training Structure at a Glance

• 3-year, ACGME-accredited, categorical Emergency Medicine residency based at Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center, with robust experiences at high-acuity affiliate sites across San Diego County. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Progressive responsibility and autonomy from PGY-1 to PGY-3, culminating in supervisory and department flow-leadership roles by graduation. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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Rotation Schedule

PGY-1

Focus: Foundational EM skills plus core off-service exposure.

• Pre-Clinical Orientation – 2 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Clinical Orientation – 2 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Emergency Medicine – 18 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Emergency Medicine – 4 weeks (Tri-City Medical Center)
• Emergency Medicine (Trauma) – 4 weeks (Scripps Mercy)
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine – 4 weeks (Rady Children’s)
• Hospital Medicine – 4 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Critical Care (Junior) – 4 weeks (KP San Diego)
• UltraTox (Ultrasound/Toxicology) – 2 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Anesthesia/Airway – 2 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Orthopedics – 2 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Vacation – 4 weeks (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

PGY-2

Focus: Resuscitation of the critically ill, trauma, PICU, and leadership development.

• Emergency Medicine – 16 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Emergency Medicine (Trauma) – 8 weeks (Scripps)
• Emergency Medicine – 4 weeks (Tri-City Medical Center)
• PICU – 4 weeks (Rady Children’s)
• Trauma Critical Care – 4 weeks (Scripps Mercy)
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine – 4 weeks (Rady Children’s)
• EMS/Disaster Medicine – 2 weeks (KP/SD County EMS)
• Labor & Delivery – 2 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Administration/Quality Improvement – 2 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Elective – 2 weeks
• Vacation – 4 weeks (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

PGY-3

Focus: Supervisory responsibilities, operations/flow leadership, advanced critical care/trauma, and scholarship.

• Emergency Medicine – 22 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Emergency Medicine (Trauma) – 8 weeks (Scripps Mercy)
• Emergency Medicine – 4 weeks (Tri-City Medical Center)
• Critical Care (Senior) – 4 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Trauma Critical Care – 4 weeks (Scripps Mercy)
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine – 4 weeks (Rady Children’s)
• Administration/Special Track – 2 weeks (KP San Diego)
• Elective – 4 weeks
• Vacation – 4 weeks (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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Clinical Training Sites and Affiliates

Residents train across a spectrum of ED environments to gain “systems savvy” and adaptability. Approximately 50% of rotations occur at affiliate sites. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

• Scripps Mercy Hospital (Level I Trauma Center; Paramedic Base Station; STEMI Receiving Center; Primary Stroke Center). Residents complete EM and Trauma Critical Care months, managing major trauma and leading resuscitations in unopposed settings. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Tri-City Medical Center (Level III Trauma Center; STEMI Receiving Center; Primary Stroke Center) in North County. High-acuity community ED with unopposed procedures, resuscitations, and codes. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Rady Children’s Hospital (only dedicated pediatric hospital in San Diego County; Level I Pediatric Trauma Center; ED census >100,000). Residents rotate in Pediatric EM and PICU with optional exposure to the Children’s Hospital Emergency Transport (CHET) critical care transport team. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Centers: Urban, high-volume EDs and designated Stroke Receiving Centers caring for a diverse population across all ages. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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Longitudinal Curriculum

Emergency Ultrasound (EUS)

• Structured, longitudinal EUS education with lectures, scan reviews, and extensive hands-on training aligned to ACEP/SAEM guidelines.
• Department equipped with multiple cart-based systems and handheld devices.
• Graduates receive a formal ultrasound training summary letter to support hospital credentialing.
• Led by fellowship-trained faculty (Dasia Esener, MD; Reinier van Tonder, MD, RDMS; Jonathan Mau, MD, RDMS). (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Simulation-Based Mastery Learning

• State-of-the-art simulation lab utilizing task trainers and high-fidelity mannequins.
• Orientation simulations plus monthly 5-hour simulation/didactic sessions with structured debrief and team-training feedback. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Administration, Quality, and Operations

• Experiential ED Administration curriculum covering quality, safety, risk management, and systems-based leadership.
• Participation in QI and hospital-wide admin meetings, mock depositions, and Lean Six Sigma training.
• Resident-of-the-Day (ROD) leadership responsibilities; involvement in departmental admin/disaster/nursing/EMS meetings, teaching, procedures, and QI Committee work. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

Toxicology

• Integrated curriculum emphasizing recognition and management of toxidromes and common toxicologic emergencies via didactics, simulation, and bedside teaching.
• Led by Jeff Lapoint, DO (NYC Poison Control/Bellevue–trained), with expertise in emerging drugs of abuse. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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EMS and Disaster Medicine

• Dedicated 2-week rotation with KP/SD County EMS during PGY-2, focusing on prehospital systems, field operations, disaster preparedness, and interface between EMS and the ED. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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Procedural and Resuscitation Training

• Intensive exposure to stabilization of critically ill and injured patients, invasive procedures, and trauma/PICU care early in training. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Progressive leadership in ED operations, directing resuscitations, and supervising junior trainees by PGY-3. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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Scholarship and Academic Development

• Residents complete a scholarly project during PGY-3 and are supported to present work at regional or national EM conferences. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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Didactics and Conferences

• Monthly integrated simulation/didactic sessions (5 hours) with structured debrief. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• [PLACEHOLDER: Weekly core didactic schedule and protected education time, including topics and timing]
• [PLACEHOLDER: Morbidity & Mortality (M&M) conference cadence]
• [PLACEHOLDER: Journal Club structure and frequency]
• [PLACEHOLDER: Grand Rounds/Invited speakers schedule]

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Electives and Special Tracks

• Individualized electives available throughout training, with additional “Admin/Special Track” time during PGY-3 for focused development aligned to career goals. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)

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Links and Resources

• Program Overview: Emergency Medicine – Kaiser Southern California (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Detailed Rotations and Longitudinal Curriculum: Curriculum (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Training Sites: Affiliates and Facility (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)
• Local Residency Site: Kaiser Permanente San Diego EM Residency (KPEM) (kpemergencymed.com)

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Notes

• All details above reflect the official Kaiser Permanente Southern California GME pages for Emergency Medicine – San Diego, accessed on February 25, 2026. If you need additional specifics (e.g., weekly conference calendars, protected time), we will update the [PLACEHOLDER] sections once the program publishes or confirms those details. (residency-scal-kaiserpermanente.org)