Naval Medical Center San Diego Obstetrics-Gynecology (Ob-Gyn) Program
The Obstetrics-Gynecology (Ob-Gyn) residency program at Naval Medical Center San Diego is designed for active-duty members of the United States Armed Forces, offering a comprehensive educational experience in female reproductive health and obstetrics. The program prioritizes military-specific contexts and provides extensive hands-on training in a supportive environment.
Program Structure
The residency spans four years, with a structured curriculum that incorporates both clinical and surgical training. Residents will engage in various rotations covering all aspects of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including but not limited to maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, and gynecologic oncology. This ensures a robust training in handling a wide range of medical and surgical issues faced by women.
Clinical Rotations
The residents complete clinical rotations in several essential areas, including:
- General Obstetrics
- High-Risk Obstetrics
- Gynecologic Surgery
- Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
- Menopausal Medicine
Surgical Experience
Residents will acquire substantial experience in surgical procedures throughout their training. This will include minimally invasive surgeries, major abdominal surgeries, and more specialized gynecologic surgeries, preparing them for a variety of clinical challenges in their future practices.
Research Opportunities
The program encourages research and scholarly activities, fostering a culture of inquiry and scientific contribution. Residents are guided in identifying research topics, engaging in clinical studies, and presenting findings at relevant conferences or in peer-reviewed journals.
Training Sites
Training occurs primarily at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, a significant military medical facility, along with collaborations at various other healthcare centers affiliated with the military and civilian sectors. The multi-site training ensures exposure to diverse patient populations and medical conditions.
Visa Support
The program is exclusively available to active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces. As such, it provides limited visa sponsorship for military personnel who are foreign nationals and wish to pursue residency training in the United States.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Ob-Gyn program is highly competitive and generally requires applicants to have completed prior military medical training. Specific requirements may include:
- Active-duty military status
- Completion of basic military training
- Strong performance on medical licensing exams
Additionally, the program does not allow for participation through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) but utilizes the Medical Operational Data System (MODS) for application submissions.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The Naval Medical Center San Diego's program emphasizes leadership, military medicine principles, and readiness training, preparing residents not just as clinicians but as future leaders in military healthcare. The multidisciplinary approach includes integrated learning with other specialties, ensuring comprehensive training and readiness for various scenarios encountered in military and civilian healthcare settings.
Website
Director
Margo Z Smith, MDProgram Director, Attending, Comprehensive OBGYN, Member-CCC, Chair-PEC Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
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-Location
San Diego, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in San Diego, CA
- Crime Rate and Safety: San Diego is relatively safe compared to other cities of its size. However, like any big city, it has its share of crime. It is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
- Fun Activities: San Diego offers a wide range of activities from beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and cultural sites to a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. There are also numerous theme parks and museums to explore.
- Climate: San Diego is known for its pleasant year-round climate with mild winters and warm summers. The city enjoys an average of 266 sunny days per year, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: San Diego is a diverse city with a mix of different cultures and ethnicities. It is home to a significant Hispanic and Asian population, among others.
- Education: San Diego is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continuing education and research. The city also has a strong public school system.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in San Diego is higher than the national average, primarily due to housing costs. However, it offers a high quality of life with access to beautiful natural surroundings.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: San Diego is approximately 2 hours from Los Angeles by car, making it easy to visit for a weekend getaway. Los Angeles offers a different experience with its urban sprawl, entertainment industry, and diverse neighborhoods.
- Pros: Beautiful beaches, fantastic weather, diverse culture, and proximity to major cities.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, traffic congestion in certain areas, and potential for natural disasters like wildfires.
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