University of California Davis Health Program
Location:
Sacramento, CASpecialty:
NephrologyACGME Code:
1480521082UC Davis Health offers a comprehensive Nephrology Fellowship Training Program recognized for its outstanding clinical training and robust academic environment. The program is structured to provide fellows with a diverse and in-depth experience in Nephrology, while allowing them to engage in numerous scholarly and research opportunities. The program's mission focuses on excellence in patient care, education, and research within a vibrant and diverse community.
Program Structure
The Nephrology Fellowship is a two-year, ACGME-accredited clinical training program that accepts three fellows annually. It is designed to cover a wide breadth of nephrology, emphasizing hands-on experience through various rotations. Training includes extensive exposure to home dialysis modalities, kidney transplant practices, and participation in an ASDIN-accredited Interventional Nephrology program, which significantly enriches the educational experience within the clinical setting.1
Training Sites and Clinical Rotations
The fellowship training primarily takes place at the UC Davis Medical Center, a tertiary referral center located in Sacramento, California. This facility is equipped with a state-of-the-art dialysis unit, dedicated workspaces for fellows, and access to comprehensive patient care services. In addition to the University medical campus, fellows gain experience at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, which provides a unique perspective on both inpatient and outpatient nephrology services. Community dialysis clinics also play a crucial role in the training, especially concerning home dialysis exposure.1
Fellows participate in various clinical services, including:
- UC Inpatient Consultation Service: Total patient management, working closely with faculty attendings.
- VA Inpatient Consultation and Outpatient Service: Involvement with VA faculty nephrologists, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of nephrology from another perspective.
- Transplant Nephrology: Dedicated time in transplant clinics working alongside experienced transplant nephrologists.
- Interventional Nephrology: Participation in catheter placements and procedures relevant to hemodialysis vascular access.
- Home Dialysis: Focused training on managing patients in home settings, preparing fellows to handle independent dialysis programs effectively.
Academic and Educational Experience
Fellows engage in a structured educational curriculum that includes weekly conferences such as the Nephrology Journal Club, grand rounds, and didactic sessions covering vital nephrology topics. Moreover, the program includes annual events such as the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) Kidney Week, where fellows can present their research, network, and continue their professional development.4
Research Opportunities
The research aspect of the fellowship is robust, with access to significant funding for projects within the nephrology division. Fellows are actively encouraged to participate in research projects and contribute to medical literature through publications. The focus areas include diabetic nephropathy, renal fibrosis, chronic kidney disease, and more, providing fellows with exposure to cutting-edge nephrologic research.5
Application Requirements
To apply for the Nephrology Fellowship at UC Davis Health, candidates must meet specific requirements including completion of an ACGME-accredited internal medicine residency, successful passage of USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3 (or equivalent), and a California medical license before the fellowship begins. The application process involves submitting MyERAS common application forms, a personal statement, and several letters of recommendation.6
Competitive Environment
The fellowship is considered competitive. Candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance, particularly in USMLE examinations. DO and IMG candidates are encouraged to apply, and the program actively supports international medical graduates through J1 visa sponsorship. However, it does not sponsor H1-B visas or visa transfers for fellows.6
Living in Sacramento
Fellows will experience life in Sacramento, which boasts a relatively low cost of living compared to other major California cities. The area offers a rich array of recreational activities, cultural events, and a strong community feel, making it an attractive location for residency training. Sacramento's environment provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, local dining experiences, and a vibrant community setting that supports both personal and professional growth.4
Website
Director
Nasim Wiegley, MDFellowship Program Director, Associate Professor of Medicine Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$91,560First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
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
