University of California Davis Health Program

The UC Davis Health Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship is an ACGME accredited program designed to provide comprehensive training in Mohs surgery, laser surgery, and cosmetic dermatology. This one-year fellowship emphasizes a combination of clinical practice and research, preparing fellows to excel in various facets of dermatologic care.

Program Overview

The fellowship offers an extensive curriculum that includes hands-on experience and exposure to a diverse array of techniques in surgical dermatology. Trainees will benefit from the expertise of two Mohs college-trained faculty who perform over 1,000 Mohs procedures annually, allowing fellows to typically act as the primary surgeon for approximately 600-700 cases during their training year 1.

The training is centered at the UC Davis Department of Dermatology in Sacramento, complemented by experiences at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Northern California. Fellows will engage directly with cosmetic procedures and modern laser techniques under the guidance of faculty who have been involved in landmark laser studies, thereby ensuring exposure to cutting-edge practices in dermatologic surgery.

Curriculum and Rotations

The structured curriculum comprises four mornings per week dedicated to Mohs surgery, with a comprehensive approach to wound closure techniques that include primary closures, grafts, flaps, and second intention healing. Additionally, fellows will dedicate time to learn laser and cosmetic procedures, with half a day each week allocated to research and scholarly projects, paving the way for numerous peer-reviewed publications and book chapters 1.

Research Opportunities

Each fellow will have designated time for research, encouraging scholarly activity and innovation in dermatology. Support for research endeavors is provided, with previous fellows having produced impactful publications in reputable journals. The department fosters an environment where fellows can pursue their individual research interests while receiving guidance from faculty mentors 1.

Selection Process

The program follows a blind selection process where faculty independently rank applicants based on established criteria, ensuring an unbiased evaluation. Preferred candidates typically hold a medical license in the U.S. at the time of application and have completed ACGME-accredited dermatology residency programs. A history of scholarship and strong letters of recommendation are also highly regarded 1.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is recognized as competitive, particularly favoring candidates who have demonstrated academic excellence and dedication to procedural dermatology. It is essential for applicants to be aware that all candidates must meet specific qualifications, such as having completed a residency in dermatology prior to the start of the fellowship 1.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates, the program can sponsor J-1 or H-1B visas, making it accessible for diverse candidates from around the world. Such visa support is essential for non-U.S. citizens who wish to train in a premier institution like UC Davis 1.

Training Sites

The fellowship utilizes a variety of training sites, primarily located within a 20-minute drive from the main UC Davis clinic. Key sites include the UC Davis University Hospital, which houses a Children’s Hospital and Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the C Street Clinic, the main venue for general and subspecialty dermatology 1.

Additional rotations occur at the Cadillac Drive Clinic and the Mather VA, where fellows gain experience in various healthcare settings, reinforcing the diverse training necessary for a well-rounded career in dermatology.

Resident Life and Well-Being

Resident well-being is prioritized in the training culture at UC Davis. The program engages residents in mentorship relationships, providing continuous support throughout their fellowship. Regular feedback sessions enhance the educational environment, and structured activities, such as retreats and award banquets, strengthen community ties among fellows and faculty 1.

Diversity and Inclusion

UC Davis is committed to fostering a diverse environment, reflecting a variety of backgrounds and experiences within its faculty, staff, and trainees. This commitment extends to promoting health equity through clinical care, education, and research initiatives 2.

Conclusion

Overall, the UC Davis Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship provides a robust training experience that integrates clinical practice with research, aiming to develop future leaders in dermatology. The combination of diverse academic opportunities, supportive faculty, and comprehensive fellowship training design makes UC Davis a compelling choice for aspiring dermatology specialists.