UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program

The UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program in Surgery is designed to cultivate a new generation of surgical leaders. The program emphasizes a rigorous and comprehensive educational experience that integrates clinical training, research, community service, and innovation. Located in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, the program draws upon the diverse patient population and unique health challenges this environment provides.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum of the program is structured to ensure residents develop the essential skills and knowledge necessary for proficient surgical practice. The training spans multiple years and is designed to progressively enhance competencies through a mix of didactic sessions, hands-on surgical practice, and immersive clinical rotations.

The foundational years focus on general surgical principles and techniques, complemented by rotations in specialized areas such as trauma, pediatric surgery, plastic surgery, and surgical oncology. The latter years are dedicated to advanced surgical techniques and leadership training, including opportunities in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. As residents progress, they assume greater responsibilities in managing patient care and supervising junior colleagues.

Rotations

Residents of the program experience a breadth of clinical exposure through diverse rotation sites, including:

• Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center: A leading academic institution known for its cutting-edge facilities and research initiatives.
• Olive View-UCLA Medical Center: A community hospital that serves a large, diverse patient population, providing unique insights into public health issues.
• West Los Angeles VA Medical Center: Offers a focus on surgical care for veterans, integrating care for service-related conditions.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the program's philosophy, encouraging residents to engage in scientific inquiry actively. The program facilitates this through numerous opportunities, including collaboration with established faculty in various research themes ranging from clinical trials to translational research. Residents are encouraged to publish their findings and present at national conferences, enhancing their academic profiles.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinctive features of the UCLA Surgery Residency Program is its commitment to social justice and community engagement. The program incorporates education and training in health disparities into its curriculum, preparing residents to address the diverse needs of the communities they serve.

Moreover, the program boasts an innovative simulation center, allowing residents to practice and refine their surgical skills in a risk-free environment before performing procedures on patients.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates, thus supporting a diverse cohort of residents. This inclusivity extends to its application process, which actively welcomes graduates from DO and IMG backgrounds, reflecting the program's commitment to a diverse and equitable training environment.

Competition for residency positions is notably high due to the program’s exceptional reputation and its association with one of the top medical schools in the United States. Applicants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly and demonstrate both academic excellence and a passion for surgical practice.

Application Requirements

To apply for this residency, candidates must generally satisfy several prerequisites, including:

• Having graduated from medical school within a specified number of years prior to application.
• Meeting minimum score requirements on STEP exams, with considerations made for the number of attempts.
• Demonstrating a commitment to surgery through relevant clinical experiences and letters of recommendation.

Conclusion

The UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program in Surgery offers an extraordinary opportunity for aspiring surgeons. Its rigorous curriculum, emphasis on research, and commitment to community engagement provide a holistic training experience that prepares residents for any challenges they may face in their future careers.