Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium Program
Location:
San Bernardino, CASpecialty:
Occupational and environmental medicineACGME Code:
3820577123The Occupational and Environmental Medicine (OEM) Residency Program at Loma Linda University is recognized for its comprehensive training in occupational health, combining clinical experience and educational opportunities designed to equip residents with the necessary skills for a successful career in this field. The program has been a leader in Southern California for over two decades, producing proficient physicians in OEM who often steer advancements in the sector.
Program Structure and Highlights
The residency offers a unique structure consisting of a guaranteed first year (PGY-1) integrated into the clinical training program, making it the only OEM residency in the U.S. to do so. Residents benefit from:
- 6 ACGME-approved positions per year.
- A two-year residency duration.
- A 100% graduate employment rate within the field post-graduation.
Residents receive a full salary comparable to other specialties and have tuition fees waived for the Master of Public Health (MPH) program, helping to alleviate financial burdens during their training, which equates to approximately a $50,000 value.
1The program emphasizes strong clinical training through varied rotations that prepare residents for diverse career options, ranging from corporate medicine to clinical settings. It has a noted culture of prioritizing resident satisfaction, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
1Upon completion of the residency, graduates have the opportunity to pursue a fellowship track in OEM, enhancing their expertise further.
2Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum is meticulously designed to blend academic learning with practical training:
- Residents engage in rotations across the Loma Linda Occupational Medicine Clinic and the VA Hospital.
- Interns are involved in specialty clinics and can select elective rotations in areas such as preventive medicine, orthopedic surgery, toxicology, and more.
- Popular elective and core training activities are complemented by academic courses tailored to each resident's goals.
The program also provides MPH coursework at no cost, focusing on key areas such as epidemiology, biostatistics, and environmental health, among others, which are vital to occupational and environmental practitioners.
2Research Opportunities
Research is integral to the program, and residents are required to undertake a senior research project by graduation. Areas of research may include:
- Injury prevention and management.
- Toxicology and health promotion.
- Employee wellness initiatives.
Residents collaborate with faculty from both the OEM program and the School of Public Health to engage in research that promotes evidence-based practices in occupational health.
2Global Health Focus
The program is dedicated to global health engagement, offering opportunities for residents to participate in international service projects in collaboration with the Global Health Institute. This concentration assists residents in developing competencies in delivering healthcare in broader contexts, sharpening their skills for work both locally and globally.
4Visa Support and Application Requirements
The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates, primarily providing support for J-1 visas. There are specific application requirements; for instance, the program may prioritize candidates who graduated within a certain time frame and consider a maximum number of failed STEP exams.
2Comparative Competitiveness
The OEM Residency Program is considered competitive, appealing to candidates from diverse backgrounds, including international medical graduates. The program is committed to inclusivity, seeking to build a cohort reflective of the diverse workforce served in occupational medical practices.
2Living in Loma Linda
Loma Linda is ideally situated in the picturesque Inland Empire of Southern California, offering affordable housing options and easy access to a variety of cultural and recreational activities. Residents enjoy an enriching lifestyle balanced with professional demands, contributing significantly to the overall residency experience.
3Website
Director
Akbar Sharip, MD, MPHProgram Director, Associate Professor Appointed Since July 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,990First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
San Bernardino, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino, CA is a city located in Southern California, known for its diverse population and warm climate.
- Crime Rate and Safety: San Bernardino has a higher-than-average crime rate, with certain neighborhoods experiencing more issues. However, like any city, there are safe areas where residents feel comfortable.
- Fun Activities: Residents of San Bernardino can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains, visiting museums, and exploring local cuisine.
- Climate: San Bernardino has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a comfortable place to live year-round.
- Races and Population: The population of San Bernardino is diverse, with a mix of Hispanic, White, Asian, and African American residents.
- Education: The city is home to several educational institutions, including Cal State San Bernardino, providing opportunities for higher education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in San Bernardino is lower than in many other parts of California, especially compared to coastal areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco.
- Nearby Cities: Riverside and Ontario are neighboring cities to San Bernardino. Riverside is approximately a 20-minute drive, known for its historic Mission Inn and cultural attractions. Ontario is about a 30-minute drive and is known for its airport and shopping centers.
Pros: Affordable cost of living compared to other California cities, diverse population, warm climate.
Cons: Higher crime rate in certain areas, limited public transportation options.
Interview Questions
