Oct 1, 1998
University of California Davis Health Program
Overview
UC Davis Health offers a distinguished residency training program in Anesthesiology, aimed at delivering exceptional patient care across Northern and Central California while training future leaders in Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine. The program’s mission emphasizes three core commitments: superior patient care, unparalleled education for trainees, and the advancement of knowledge through research and inquiry.
Program Structure
The Anesthesiology residency at UC Davis is structured over several years, including the CA-1, CA-2, and CA-3 stages, each designed to build the skills and competencies necessary for a successful career in anesthesiology. Residents gain in-depth knowledge and experience through a well-rounded curriculum, incorporating clinical rotations, didactic education, and hands-on training in a variety of settings.
1Curriculum and Rotations
The residency offers a comprehensive curriculum, with each year building on previous knowledge. The CA-1 year focuses on foundational skills in clinical anesthesia, while the CA-2 year includes subspecialty rotations such as cardiac anesthesia, obstetric anesthesia, and pain management. The CA-3 year is dedicated to mastering complex anesthesia and leading clinical practices.
5Each rotation is supported by didactic education, bi-weekly conferences, and simulation training, ensuring that residents are well-prepared for both general and complex anesthesia cases.
9Research Opportunities
Research is a key component of the residency. Residents undertake individual academic projects under the mentorship of experienced faculty, particularly during the CA-2 and CA-3 years. The program fosters a research-friendly environment, encouraging participation in quality improvement (QI) projects and the publication of work in peer-reviewed journals.
10Quality Improvement Initiatives
The QI curriculum is integrated into the training, where residents identify impactful projects that enhance patient care. These projects have led to significant improvements in various clinical practices, demonstrating the program's commitment to not just education but also excellence in clinical outcomes.
10Training Sites
Training occurs at several advanced healthcare facilities, including the UC Davis Medical Center and the Federal VA Health System. These sites offer diverse clinical environments where residents can experience a broad spectrum of cases and patient demographics.
12Application Process
To apply, candidates must submit their applications via ERAS, including CV, personal statement, medical school transcript, USMLE scores, and letters of recommendation, one of which must be specifically from anesthesiology. Special application requirements include a passing score on the USMLE Step II CK as well as registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants. The application process is highly competitive, aimed at recruiting residents who have demonstrated academic excellence and strong clinical abilities.
3Visa Support
The program supports international trainees by offering visa sponsorship. It primarily sponsors J-1 visas, which are often utilized by international medical graduates pursuing residency training in the United States.
3Salary and Benefits
UC Davis provides a competitive salary for residents, in addition to comprehensive health coverage, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development. Further details regarding salary and benefits can be explored on the program's official pages.
11Living in Sacramento
Residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle in Sacramento, acclaimed for its diverse culinary scene, outdoor activities, and cultural events. The city provides a welcoming community ideal for training and personal life, often being referred to as America's Farm-to-Fork Capital due to its access to fresh and seasonal produce. With numerous parks and recreational spots, residents can experience a balanced approach to work and life.
8Competitiveness and Qualifications
The residency is highly competitive, particularly attracting candidates with strong academic records and clinical skills. Applicants with diverse backgrounds and research experiences are often encouraged to apply. Throughout the selection process, personal attributes and professional ambitions are critical factors for consideration.
4Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
20, 20, 20, 20 (4 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation
(Effective: December 15, 2025)
Composition [2]
Training
Fellowship Rate:33% [2]
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:1.1X [1]
Residents Career Path [2]
Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave: 12 days [1]
First Year Paid Vacation: 28 days [1]
First Year Salary: $82,826 [1]
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 24 hours [1]
First Year Average Weekly Hours: 55 hours [1]
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: 237–265 [2]
Visa Sponsorship:J1 [2]
YOG Cutoff:--
Race / Ethnicity
Gender
Incoming Schools
19%
University of California, Davis, School of Medicine
8%
University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine
5%
University of California, San Diego School of Medicine
5%
Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific
* Multiple schools share the same admissions rate.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
Signals
Hometown State
Medical School State
Step 1 Fail
Step 2 Fail
Applicant Type
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]
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
Match History [4]
Roster
Publications
50 Publications (5 yr)
Peer-reviewed output from faculty and residents, last 5 years
50 Publications (5 yr)
A Novel Algorithm for Continuous Real-Time Cerebral Autoregulation Assessment Based on Mean Arterial Pressure and Cerebral Oxygen Saturation.
Prehospital Assessment and Treatment of Infants and Toddlers in Respiratory Distress: A Retrospective Analysis.
Location
Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA
Crime Rate and Safety
Sacramento has both safe and less safe neighborhoods. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in certain areas known for higher crime rates. Overall, it's advisable to stay informed about the safety of the specific neighborhood you choose to live in.
Fun Activities
Sacramento offers a variety of outdoor activities due to its proximity to rivers, parks, and hiking trails. The city also has museums, art galleries, and a growing food scene. Additionally, it's home to the California State Fair and is near wine country.
Climate
Sacramento has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Be prepared for hot temperatures during the summer months.
Races and Population
Sacramento is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities among its population, contributing to a rich cultural experience.
Education
Sacramento is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for higher education.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Sacramento is relatively high compared to other cities in California but is more affordable than some of the more expensive coastal cities.
Proximity to Larger Cities
Sacramento is located about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from San Francisco and is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours away from San Jose. You can easily explore larger metropolitan areas on weekends or during time off.
Pros
- Proximity to outdoor activities
- diverse population
- cultural attractions.
Cons
- Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates
- and the summers can be extremely hot.
FAQ
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Nearby programs
Anesthesiology Programs Near Sacramento, CA
Other specialties near Sacramento, CA
References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/0400521014
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/e2270968-7c7f-15d9-9471-1c0818ad5783
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=050XX00US06067
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