UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program
Location:
Los Angeles, CASpecialty:
Micrographic surgery and dermatologic oncologyACGME Code:
0810512039The UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine offers a comprehensive Residency Program in Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology, emphasizing an extensive educational experience, surgical training, and community engagement. This program aims to train residents as proficient practitioners in various aspects of dermatology, particularly within surgical contexts.
Curriculum Overview
Residents in the Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology program engage in a structured curriculum that emphasizes both clinical exposure and didactic education. The program integrates medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, and dermatopathology, offering residents opportunities for hands-on experience in various settings.
The program schedules didactic sessions, including education on dermatopathology, case discussions, and journal clubs to keep residents updated on the latest in dermatologic research and practices 1. Residents are active participants in the Resident Lecture Series, which includes patient presentations followed by discussions on clinical and histopathologic diagnoses 6.
Rotations and Training Sites
Training occurs at key hospitals affiliated with UCLA. The main sites include:
- UCLA Medical Center: Focused on advanced procedural dermatology, this site offers extensive training experiences in surgical and cosmetic dermatology.
- West Los Angeles VA Hospital: Residents gain substantial experience, particularly in Mohs micrographic surgery, where they perform numerous procedures annually.
- Olive View-UCLA Medical Center: Serving a diverse patient population, this facility enhances the resident's ability to manage a wide array of dermatologic conditions across demographic lines.
Research Opportunities
Research is a vital component of the residency program. Residents are encouraged to develop and complete research projects under faculty mentorship, with access to resources that support clinical investigation and academic publication 2. Collaborative projects with other healthcare specialties further enrich the research opportunities available to residents.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program is noted for its commitment to fostering diversity and promoting health equity. It seeks to recruit residents from varied backgrounds and emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique perspectives that diverse populations bring to healthcare delivery 1. This commitment extends to community service initiatives, enabling residents to engage with underserved populations through clinics and outreach programs such as Camp Wonder, which offers medical care to children with dermatologic conditions 2.
Visa Support
For international medical graduates, the program offers sponsorship for J-1 visas. Graduates of international medical schools must possess ECFMG certification and the California eligibility letter at the time of application. The program supports candidates diligently navigating the complexities involved in visa sponsorship 3.
Application Requirements and Competitiveness
The UCLA dermatology residency is known for its competitive selection process. Applicants are expected to have solid academic standings with no more than one failure of the USMLE Step 1 or Step 2 exams. Additionally, the program accepts individuals with prior residency experiences, promoting an inclusive environment for board-certified specialists seeking additional training 4.
Salary and Benefits
Residents are compensated through a salary structure aligned with UCLA Graduate Medical Education guidelines, coupled with benefits that may include health insurance, vacation time, and professional development funds for attending conferences or pursuing further education 5.
Website
Director
Jenny Kim, MD, PhDDirector of Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship Appointed Since August 2018Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$101,434First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
5.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Los Angeles, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Los Angeles, CA
- Crime rate and safety: Los Angeles has a moderate crime rate with certain neighborhoods having higher crime rates than others. It's recommended to research and choose a safe area to live in.
- Fun activities: Los Angeles is known for its diverse entertainment options, such as Hollywood attractions, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Climate: Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It is generally sunny throughout the year.
- Races and population: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population representing various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Los Angeles is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering a wide range of educational opportunities.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Los Angeles is relatively high compared to other cities in the U.S., especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
- Proximity to bigger cities: Nearby bigger cities include San Diego (about 2-3 hours drive) and San Francisco (about 6-7 hours drive), offering additional urban experiences.
- Pros: Exciting cultural opportunities, diverse culinary experiences, access to beautiful beaches, great weather, and potential networking opportunities in the entertainment industry.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, air pollution, and housing affordability challenges.
Interview Questions
