University of California Davis Health Program

UC Davis Health offers a specialized Epilepsy Program located in Sacramento that is nationally recognized for its comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating epilepsy. The program stands out as a Level 4 Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, a designation awarded by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers (NAEC), indicating the highest standards of care available. This program is particularly tailored for patients who have not found relief through two or more antiepileptic medications and require more advanced treatment options.

Curriculum Overview
The curriculum within the program integrates clinical experience with didactic training. Residents and fellows participate in an extensive array of rotations, including those focused on inpatient and outpatient care within the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU). This structure aims to foster a deep understanding of epilepsy’s complexities, from emergency care during seizures to long-term management strategies for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.

Rotations and Training
Training within the program incorporates interdisciplinary rotations where neurology residents work alongside neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuropsychologists, and other specialists. Residents are exposed to various techniques used in the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy, including electroencephalography (EEG) and video monitoring. More advanced procedures such as responsive neurostimulation and surgical options (laser surgery, deep brain stimulation) provide hands-on experience that is crucial for future practice.

Unique Aspects of the Program
The UC Davis Epilepsy Program's unique approach to care includes a lifespan focus, ensuring that treatment evolves with patients as they age. This includes careful coordination of care between pediatric and adult epilepsy specialists, which is relatively rare in the United States, providing patients with continuity throughout their treatment journey.

Research Opportunities
The program supports and encourages research initiatives aimed at enhancing treatment modalities for epilepsy. Residents are provided with opportunities to engage in clinical trials which contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field and improve patient outcomes. Through collaboration with various research departments, the program is committed to developing innovative solutions and therapeutic strategies for managing epilepsy.

Training Sites
The main training site for the Epilepsy Program is the UC Davis Midtown Ambulatory Care Center, which houses the state-of-the-art Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. The EMU is equipped with advanced technologies necessary for conducting both inpatient and outpatient monitoring, enabling accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans for patients with epilepsy.

Patient Care Model
The program fosters a patient-centered approach, incorporating patient navigators to assist individuals in accessing the necessary care and support throughout their treatment process. Moreover, financial counseling services are available to help patients navigate insurance coverage and payment options.

Visa Support
UC Davis Health offers visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to train in the Epilepsy Program. This typically includes J-1 and H-1B visa types, allowing candidates to join their rigorous training pathways.

Competitiveness and Eligibility
The UC Davis Epilepsy Program is highly competitive, with an application process that favors qualified candidates, including those from both D.O. and M.D. backgrounds. There are specific application requirements such as a minimum USMLE score threshold and a cap on the allowed failed examinations. Each application is thoroughly reviewed, and candidates are typically expected to have graduated from medical school no more than a few years prior to applying.

Expectations and Support
Prospective residents can expect a supportive environment that prioritizes both professional development and personal well-being. The structure of the program emphasizes mentorship and guidance by experienced faculty who are dedicated to training the next generation of epilepsy specialists.

The program's overall goal is to empower residents with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to excel in the field of neurology, particularly in the management of epilepsy and seizure disorders.