University of California Davis Health Program

Program Overview and Philosophy

The University of California Davis Health Program offers a unique and comprehensive combined Family Medicine and Psychiatry Residency Program located in Sacramento, CA. Designed to train physicians in both family medicine and psychiatry, the program focuses on enriching the overall health of communities by addressing both physical and mental health needs1. It aims to produce graduates who are dual-board eligible in family medicine and general psychiatry, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of integrated healthcare systems1.

A core philosophy of the program is its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This is reflected in its mentorship model, which involves guidance from dual-trained faculty and alumni who provide valuable insights and support throughout the residency1. The program encourages residents to contribute to research, education, advocacy, and clinical practice, furthering their impact in both specialties1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency spans five years, with a curriculum meticulously designed to integrate the specialties of psychiatry and family medicine2. Rotations alternate between these specialties every three months, offering residents the opportunity to hone their skills in both areas2.

• Years 1 and 2: Residents spend an equal amount of time in family medicine and psychiatry, with six months dedicated to each specialty2.

• Year 3: The focus shifts, with nine months in family medicine and three months in psychiatry, allowing residents to deepen their expertise in primary care2.

• Year 4: This year is exclusively devoted to outpatient psychiatry, providing a comprehensive experience in mental health management2.

• Year 5: Residents return to family medicine for nine months while maintaining continuous exposure to psychiatry through clinic experiences2.

A key component of the curriculum is the weekly Family Medicine Continuity Clinic, which runs throughout the five-year program. This structure ensures that residents consistently practice and refine their skills in both specialties, fostering a holistic understanding of integrated care2.

Training Sites and Facilities

The program operates within various community-based and inpatient medical care settings, providing a diverse array of clinical experiences5. These sites include well-equipped facilities where residents engage in projects aimed at improving care for underserved populations. Such a diverse range of training sites facilitates comprehensive learning in multiple healthcare settings, from outpatient clinics to inpatient psychiatric wards5.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Prospective candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to both primary and mental healthcare, as well as an interest in integrated models of care. While specific numerical data and scores are not provided here, applicants are typically evaluated based on their academic performance, clinical experience, and commitment to the dual-specialty mission. This competitive program seeks individuals who are eager to make substantial contributions to family medicine and psychiatry1.

Visa Support

Information regarding visa support for international medical graduates is tailored to each applicant's specific situation and is typically communicated during the application process. Interested candidates should inquire directly with the program for the most accurate and relevant information regarding visa sponsorship and support.

Research Opportunities

The program offers robust research opportunities that encourage residents to engage in innovative projects aimed at improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes1. With an emphasis on health equity and systems of care, residents are supported in conducting research that bridges the gap between family medicine and psychiatry, allowing for significant contributions to the academic and clinical landscape1.

Unique Program Features

UC Davis Health is nationally recognized for its groundbreaking efforts in the integration of psychiatry and primary care1. The residency provides significant opportunities for residents to engage in advocacy at the state capital, influencing healthcare policy and reform1. The weekly didactic sessions and Med-Psych Conference promote cross-disciplinary engagement, allowing residents to collaboratively explore complex cases and shared topics of interest3.

Another unique element is its elective course, PSY 419, which combines family medicine and psychiatry rotations in an integrated behavioral health clinic. This offers residents substantial outpatient experience in managing both psychiatric and primary care cases4.

Fellowship Opportunities

While the residency does not specifically outline fellowship opportunities within the program, graduates are well-prepared to pursue advanced training options in diverse fellowship programs that cater to the specialties of family medicine and psychiatry. The dual-board eligibility equips them with a distinct advantage when applying for further specialization1.

Resident Wellness and Support

Resident wellness is a cornerstone of the program, with numerous initiatives dedicated to ensuring a supportive and enriching environment1. The program prioritizes resident wellbeing through retreats, wellness half-days, and process groups. These activities are designed to foster a friendly and communicative residency community, promoting whole-person care that is reflected both in resident life and patient interactions1.

Program leadership is deeply committed to providing experiences aligned with each resident's interests and passions, ensuring that their journey through the residency is both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling.