Kern Medical Center offers a comprehensive General Surgery Residency Program located in Bakersfield, California. With a history dating back to 1934, the program provides a robust educational framework aimed at preparing future leaders in the field of surgery. The residency is situated at Kern Medical, an acute care teaching hospital that supports multiple residency and fellowship programs.
The curriculum is meticulously crafted to enhance residents' skills in the evaluation and management of various surgical conditions. Residents are offered a mix of clinical experiences, didactic sessions, and mentorship from renowned faculty, thereby ensuring that they acquire the necessary competencies for modern healthcare challenges 1.
Curriculum and Rotations
The General Surgery Residency encompasses a diverse curriculum comprising hours of lectures, demonstrations, bedside teaching, and hands-on patient encounters. Residents attend a weekly four-hour surgery conference that allows them to dedicate time to patient care while attending educational sessions 8. The program includes rotations at Kern Medical, as well as at additional distinguished institutions like Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Valley Children’s Hospital, and City of Hope Treatment Centers 1.
Residents engage in various topics during their training, which includes specialty conferences during off-service rotations. The curriculum spans 13 four-week rotations per year, ensuring an expansive training experience that ranges from patient care to educational activities and scholarly research involvement 8.
Research Opportunities
Kern Medical's General Surgery Residency Program emphasizes the importance of research, allowing residents to participate in the Surgery, Trauma, and Acute Critical Surgery Research Program (STAR). This program engages residents in clinical research efforts focused on high-quality patient outcomes, giving them exposure to several surgical specialties 7. Residents have the opportunity to present their findings at local, regional, and international gatherings, contributing to the advancement of surgical knowledge 1.
Salary and Benefits
Residents at Kern Medical benefit from a structured compensation and benefit package. As of July 2023, the bi-weekly salary is competitive, and residents also receive a meal stipend of $164.71 6. Additional benefits include an annual scrub allowance of $150, educational travel benefits capped at $1,500 over the residency, and other educational funds 6. Comprehensive health benefits including coverage for health, dental, vision, and life insurance are provided, alongside a deferred compensation plan and flexible spending accounts to facilitate financial planning 6.
Living Arrangements and Transportation
While housing is not provided by the program, residents can find affordable living options in Bakersfield, with a favorable rental market where monthly rents for one- or two-bedroom apartments range from $500 to $1,000 5. Given that the hospital may not be within walking distance from most residences, having a car is advised, particularly as some clinical rotations occur in different locations 5.
Application Requirements
The General Surgery Residency Program is highly competitive, and applicants must meet specific criteria to secure an interview. Candidates must have graduated from medical school within the past two years, completed the USMLE or COMLEX examinations, and provide a minimum of three letters of recommendation 9. Additionally, International Medical Graduates must possess a valid ECFMG certificate 9. The interview process assesses various skills, including verbal communication and professional demeanor, to ensure a well-rounded evaluation of candidates 9.
The program provides visa sponsorship for qualified candidates, although specific details regarding visa types supported by the program may vary based on individual circumstances and should be clarified during the application process.
Competitiveness and Community Impact
The program is known for its inviting atmosphere towards both U.S. DO graduates and International Medical Graduates, contributing to a diverse residency cohort 1. Residents are not only trained in advanced surgical techniques but also get the chance to serve a community in need, enhancing their experience through impactful healthcare delivery 8.
Website
Director
Amber Jones, DO, MPHProgram Director Appointed Since April 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
8 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
-Residents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
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
