UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program
Location:
Fresno, CASpecialty:
Hospice and palliative medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5400512070The UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program in Hospice and Palliative Medicine offers an innovative fellowship designed to train compassionate advocates for patients and families in both hospital and outpatient settings. The program, which spans one year, integrates closely with the fully accredited Family Medicine Residency Program. Notably, the fellowship is strategically located within the Community Regional Medical Center (CRMC), providing fellows with extensive exposure to a variety of inpatient services, including trauma and burn care, thus fulfilling the complex needs of patients requiring palliative care.
The fellowship adopts a multidisciplinary approach that focuses on providing a comprehensive training experience, crucial for shaping the future landscape of hospice and palliative medicine. The program features rigorous training that balances clinical rotations, didactics, and research opportunities, fostering a well-rounded educational environment conducive to professional development 1.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum encompasses a multifaceted educational strategy that includes introductory inpatient consultation services followed by an intensive month of didactics. From August onwards, fellows participate in monthly academic half days featuring interactive lectures, case conferences, and journal clubs facilitated by various disciplines. Notably, sessions on wellness and self-care are integrated alongside board review courses.1
Clinical Rotations
The clinical experience for fellows includes a diverse array of rotations such as palliative care inpatient consultations and outpatient hospice visits. Unique opportunities exist for working with affiliated nursing homes and specialized electives in oncology, psychiatry, and hepatology. Each fellow becomes an integral member of the interdisciplinary team that includes social workers, chaplains, and nursing staff, all dedicated to the principles of palliative care 1.
Pediatric Training
An essential component of the fellowship is pediatric training, requiring each fellow to spend two weeks at the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in San Francisco. This aspect of training allows fellows to gain valuable insights and skills in managing complex cases in pediatric palliative care 1.
Research Opportunities
Research plays a pivotal role within the fellowship, offering fellows a longitudinal experience supported by dedicated time to undertake individual projects throughout the year. Guidance and supervision are provided to ensure fellows can navigate the research component effectively 1.
Training Sites
In addition to the main training site at CRMC, fellows are provided opportunities to train at the VA Central California Health Care System and within the Kaweah Delta Healthcare District. The VA experience encompasses daily inpatient, outpatient, and electronic palliative consultations, thus preparing fellows for leadership roles within palliative care settings. At Kaweah Delta Medical Center, fellows contribute significantly to the inpatient palliative care teams and benefit from the supportive culture of graduate medical education fostered there 1.
Visa Support and Employment Requirements
The UCSF Fresno Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship program supports International Medical Graduates (IMGs) through the ECFMG-sponsored J-1 visa. Applicants who are United States citizens or possess a green card are also eligible, though the program typically does not sponsor H-1B visas. It is mandatory for all fellows to hold a valid California state medical license before commencing training and to submit various application documents such as a personal statement, recommendation letters, and a current CV 2.3
Competitiveness and Application Process
The fellowship is highly competitive, selecting four qualified fellows annually through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Candidates must have completed a residency in an ACGME-accredited specialty and demonstrate a strong interest in palliative care to be considered for the program 2.
Living in Fresno
Fresno, located in a large metropolitan area, boasts a charming small-town atmosphere. The region is characterized by a rich cultural landscape marked by diverse dining options, impressive local events, and proximity to remarkable national parks including Yosemite and Sequoia. The affordable cost of living provides a beneficial advantage for fellows, making it an attractive location for both personal and professional growth 1.
Website
Director
Mr. Alireza Soleimani Fard, MDProgram Director Appointed Since July 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$59,089First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Fresno, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Fresno, CA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Fresno has a higher crime rate compared to the national average. It's essential to be cautious, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Fresno offers various outdoor activities like hiking at Yosemite National Park, exploring wineries in nearby areas, and enjoying cultural events in the city.
- Climate: The climate in Fresno is generally Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters.
- Races and Population: Fresno is a diverse city with a population that includes a mix of different races and ethnicities.
- Education: Fresno has several educational institutions, including Fresno State University, providing opportunities for higher education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Fresno is lower compared to many other California cities, making it more affordable for residents.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles are approximately 3-4 hours away by car, offering more urban amenities and entertainment options.
Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse population, proximity to outdoor recreational areas.
Cons: Higher crime rate, hot summers.
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