University of California Davis Health Program
Location:
sacramento, CASpecialty:
Cardiovascular diseaseACGME Code:
1410521111The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program at UC Davis Health provides a comprehensive training for fellows over three years, with a focus on both clinical practice and academic research in the field of cardiology. Established in 1967, the program has been recognized nationally for its commitment to excellence in patient care, medical education, and research, closely aligning with the overarching mission of UC Davis Health.
The structure of the fellowship comprises 24 months of intensive clinical training, with hands-on experiences facilitated at two hospitals: UC Davis Health and the VA Northern California Health Care System (VA NCHS). The program encompasses a broad spectrum of cardiology areas including nuclear cardiology, echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, electrophysiology, and heart failure management, as described by the program's guidelines 1.
Curriculum Overview
The fellowship program is designed to be flexible, allowing for individualization based on fellows' specific goals and interests. Core experiences include:
- Cardiac intensive care and inpatient ward systems
- Consultative cardiology
- Ambulatory cardiology practice in outpatient clinics
- Non-invasive cardiology techniques, such as various forms of echocardiography, stress testing, and advanced imaging methods
- Invasive cardiology, covering procedures like catheter placement and arrhythmia management
- Electrophysiology including pacing and intervention techniques
Throughout the fellowship, all fellows are required to maintain a regular outpatient clinic schedule, engaging in patient care across both UC Davis Health and VA NCHS facilities 1.
Research Opportunities
Research is a vital component of the fellowship, with each fellow required to choose and complete a research project under the mentorship of faculty members. This may focus on either clinical or basic research issues significant to cardiology. Fellows are actively encouraged to present their findings at local and national conferences and to publish their work in professional journals 1.
Educational Conferences
The fellowship emphasizes continuous education through regular conferences throughout the week. These include:
- Cardiology Clinical Conference
- EKG/Cath Case Conference
- Fellows Community Conference
- Electrophysiology Conference
- Cardiology Interventional Conference
These platforms facilitate critical discussion and ongoing learning in various cardiology subspecialties, enriching the educational experience provided to fellows 1.
Support and Well-Being Initiatives
At UC Davis Health, fellow wellness is prioritized, with the Graduate Medical Education (GME) Office providing resources to support fellows' mental health and professional development. Programs addressing issues like managing burnout, promoting resilience, and fostering effective communication are part of the wellness initiative 1.
Compensation and Benefits
The fellowship offers competitive salaries and benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as stipends for educational expenses and meals. Fellows can also utilize recreational facilities available at UC Davis Health, along with a generous leave policy that allows for paid vacation and additional personal leave as necessary 1.
Application Process and Special Requirements
The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program accepts four first-year fellows annually, with a start date on July 15. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by August 15. Key application requirements include:
- Completion of an ACGME-accredited Internal Medicine Residency
- Passing scores on USMLE Step 1 and Step 2
- Three letters of recommendation, including one from a current program director
- Eligibility for a California Medical License
- A valid ECFMG certificate for international graduates
Notably, the program exclusively accepts J-1 visas, reflecting a commitment to supporting international medical graduates seeking training 1.
Diversity and Community Engagement
UC Davis Health promotes an inclusive environment, recognizing the importance of diversity among fellows to foster a rich learning and work environment. This commitment is reflected in its principles of community, which aim to create an organization that values development, cultural sensitivity, and responsiveness 1.
Website
Director
Sandhya Venugopal, MDProgram Director, Noninvasive Cardiology, Clinical Professor Appointed Since June 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$87,201First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Sacramento, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
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.
Interview Questions
