University of California Davis Health Program

The Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship at the UC Davis Medical Center is a comprehensive and structured three-year training program designed to cultivate the next generation of experts in the field of gynecologic oncology. This fellowship program is structured to provide both extensive clinical training as well as dedicated research time, fostering the development of proficient gynecologic oncologists.

Program Structure

The fellowship program consists of 24 months of clinical training followed by 12 months focused exclusively on research. Annually, only one fellow will be accepted, resulting in a maximum of three fellows within the program at any given time. This small cohort ensures personalized mentorship and training opportunities under the guidance of esteemed faculty members within the Division of Gynecologic Oncology.

Clinical training encompasses instruction on complex surgical techniques pertinent to gynecologic cancers as well as a variety of benign surgical procedures. The program includes core rotations in medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, palliative care, and surgical ICU, ensuring fellows gain a comprehensive understanding of multidisciplinary cancer care. Additionally, fellows will engage in a continuity clinic where they will manage patient care, maintain ongoing relationships with patients, and make therapeutic decisions directly.

Research Opportunities

The research component is a key strength of the UC Davis Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship. Fellows are expected to engage in either basic science or clinical research, supported by experienced mentors in their chosen focus area. This 12-month research year is an opportunity to produce publishable work, including a thesis project and additional manuscripts based on clinical outcomes or quality improvement projects. The program emphasizes active collaboration with ongoing research in the field, providing fellows with invaluable experience in investigating innovative treatment options and methodologies.

Clinical Experience

Fellows will have the opportunity to manage the Gynecologic Oncology services across various facilities. The clinical experience is structured to include significant operative training involving radical and upper abdominal surgeries, chemotherapy administration, and management of treatment toxicities. Each year of the fellowship is distinct: the first year focuses on clinical service, the second year is dedicated to research, while the third year emphasizes advanced clinical practice and supervision of junior fellows.

Wellness and Benefits

The program prioritizes the wellness of its fellows, providing an annual retreat directed toward communication and resilience training. Fellows receive additional health appointment time and benefit from wellness programs supported by a dedicated GME Director and psychologist. The program also offers a comprehensive benefits package, which includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as stipends for medical liability, salaries aligned with PGY-5 through PGY-7 levels, and generous vacation leave, adequately addressing the work-life balance needs of fellows.

Diversity Commitment

The UC Davis Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship values diversity, welcoming applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to foster an inclusive training environment. This commitment to diversity encompasses social, cultural, economic, gender, and geographic factors, reflecting the diverse patient population fellows will serve. The program encourages alternative certification pathways to comply with the requirements of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The fellowship program is open to international medical graduates and provides visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types. This inclusivity allows a broader range of candidates to apply, enhancing the diversity of the training environment.

Regarding competitiveness, the program is known to be highly competitive, with a limited number of fellowship spots available each year. Applicants are assessed based on their clinical experience, research background, and overall fit within the program.

Application Requirements

Prospective fellows are required to have completed an Obstetrics and Gynecology residency and must provide a minimum of three letters of recommendation, including any pertinent communications from prior rotations at prestigious institutions such as MD Anderson or Memorial Sloan-Kettering. Candidates must submit their applications through the ERAS system, along with CREOG scores and relevant documentation.

Overall, the UC Davis Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship Program not only emphasizes clinical and academic excellence but also fosters an environment where trainees can thrive, ensuring readiness to face the complex challenges of gynecologic oncology.