University of California Davis Health Program
Location:
Sacramento, CASpecialty:
Gynecologic oncologyACGME Code:
2250522002The 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.
1Research 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.
3Clinical 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.
3Wellness 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.
4Diversity 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.
1Visa 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.
14Application 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.
3Overall, 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.
Website
Director
Rebecca Brooks, MDProgram Director, Gynecologic Oncology, Professor Appointed Since September 2019Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$90,473First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
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
