Jul 1, 2015
Overview
The transitional year residency program at Loma Linda University Health serves as an essential stepping stone for physicians transitioning into categorical residency programs. This one-year, university-based residency is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, and it emphasizes Loma Linda University's commitment to holistic health through various training tracks.
Program Structure and Rotations
The program comprises five elective months, offering residents significant flexibility in tailoring their training to meet personal and professional goals. Residents can choose from four distinct tracks: Classic, General Preventive Medicine, Occupational Medicine, or Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Such diversity allows trainees to gain extensive exposure and expertise in various disciplines pertinent to their future specialties 1.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to adapt to the unique background and career objectives of each resident. Whether a resident seeks to deepen their knowledge in surgery, emergency medicine, or family medicine, the program is tailored toward individual educational needs 4. The primary training site is Loma Linda University Medical Center, which is recognized as a prominent Level-1 trauma center offering a comprehensive range of required clinical experiences.
Training Locations
In addition to Loma Linda University Medical Center, residents will have opportunities for training in various urban and suburban settings, including the VA Loma Linda Healthcare System and the SAC Health System. This variety not only enhances clinical training but also broadens the residents' exposure to different healthcare environments and patient demographics 1.
Research Opportunities
The program also emphasizes research, providing elective research rotations within various specialties that residents may pursue post-training. This engagement in research not only enhances the residents' medical knowledge but also equips them with critical thinking skills crucial for their future medical practice 4.
Support and Well-Being Initiatives
Loma Linda University Health is committed to supporting the well-being of its residents. A Chief Wellness Resident is designated for each program to facilitate wellness initiatives and foster a supportive community 7. Additionally, various resources such as counseling services, fitness programs, and spiritual mentoring are available to encourage work-life balance and personal development.
Stipends and Benefits
The residency program offers a competitive compensation package including a stipend structure that provides residents with a housing allowance of $5,000 and meal allowance of $1,500 annually. Comprehensive medical and dental coverage is provided at minimal cost for residents and their dependents 6.
Visa Support
The program offers visa support, including sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas, ensuring that international medical graduates have the opportunity to participate in this residency program 4.
Application Requirements
Prospective residents should be aware of the application requirements for the transitional year residency. Applicants are generally expected to have graduated from medical school within a certain time frame and may be subject to limitations regarding failed STEP examinations. This competitiveness ensures that the program attracts skilled and dedicated candidates, which contributes to a collaborative learning environment 5.
Neighborhood and Lifestyle
Located in the scenic Inland Empire of Southern California, Loma Linda provides residents with access to numerous recreational activities, cultural events, and natural attractions. The area boasts affordable housing options, making it an attractive place for residents and their families 2.
Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
9, 0, 0 (1 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation
(Effective: December 4, 2025)
Composition [2]
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Training
Fellowship Rate:--
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:--
Residents Career Path
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Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave: --
First Year Paid Vacation: --
First Year Salary: --
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: --
First Year Average Weekly Hours: --
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: --
Visa Sponsorship:--
YOG Cutoff:--
Race / Ethnicity
No race data available.
Gender
No gender data available.
Incoming Schools
No incoming school data available.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
No 2026 Applicant & Interview Insights available for this program.
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.
USMLE STEP 2 CK Score [2]
No data available for USMLE
STEP 2 CK Score
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
No data available for COMLEX
Level 2 Score
Match History [4]
Roster
Location
Loma Linda, CA [5]
- Above the national average
- Below the national average
- Similar to the national average
Housing — Rental prices [6]
Rental prices
Crime — All violent offences [7]
Rate per 100,000 residents
Living in Loma Linda, CA
Crime Rate and Safety
Loma Linda is known for its safety and low crime rate, making it a family-friendly community.
Fun Activities
Loma Linda offers outdoor activities like hiking in nearby mountains, as well as cultural events at Loma Linda University.
Climate
Loma Linda enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.
Races and Population
The population of Loma Linda is diverse, with a mix of races and ethnicities.
Education
Loma Linda is home to Loma Linda University, which offers various educational programs and healthcare services.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Loma Linda is higher compared to the national average, mainly due to housing costs.
Nearby Cities
Riverside and San Bernardino are nearby cities, approximately 20-30 minutes away by car. Riverside is known for its historic Mission Inn and UC Riverside, while San Bernardino offers cultural attractions and outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Safe environment
- access to outdoor activities
- diverse population
- educational opportunities at Loma Linda University.
Cons
- Higher cost of living
- limited nightlife options.
FAQ
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References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/9990500245
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/d9e41d13-866c-8955-148d-50436019d568
3. ACGME - Accreditation Data System (ADS) - https://apps.acgme.org/ads/Public/Programs/Search
4. NRMP Results and Data: 2022-2026 Main Residency Match - https://www.nrmp.org/match-data/2026/03/program-results-2022-2026/
5. United States Census Bureau - https://data.census.gov/profile/City,_VS?g=160XX00US0642370
6. Zillow Research - Observed Rent Index (ZORI) - https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
7. FBI - Crime/Law Enforcement Stats (Uniform Crime Reporting Program) - https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr