The UC Davis Health Ophthalmology Residency Program is a fully accredited, three-year residency designed to engage residents in comprehensive training in both clinical and surgical ophthalmology. Established in 1970, the program has built a legacy of excellence by offering a curriculum rich in formal education, clinical rotations, and research opportunities. Residents are provided with resources that prepare them to pursue either independent practice or subspecialty fellowship training after graduation, highlighted by distinguished careers in various domains, including private practice, academic settings, and industry.1
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is structured to develop both the clinical and surgical expertise of residents. The training spans four years, divided into distinct phases focusing on comprehensive ophthalmology, subspecialties, and increasing responsibilities.1
PGY-1 Year
The first year consists of an Integrated Internship at UC Davis Health, where residents spend three months on the ophthalmology service and engage in various subspecialties. Interns receive initial surgical experience in a supportive environment, combined with rotations in allied fields like facial plastics and otolaryngology, crucial for understanding the interdisciplinary nature of ophthalmology.2
PGY-2 Year
In the second year, residents focus on comprehensive ophthalmology, spending substantial time in hands-on clinical settings, including cataract surgeries. They also engage in the consult service to further develop their evaluation and management skills across a range of ocular emergencies.2
PGY-3 Year
During the third year, residents rotate among specialized services, such as neuro-ophthalmology, oculoplastics, glaucoma, and pediatric ophthalmology. This stage emphasizes both medical and surgical management, allowing for deeper engagement with complex cases and a vast array of diseases.2
PGY-4 Year
In the final year, residents undertake chief resident responsibilities, which grant them autonomy and refine their leadership skills. This culminates with advanced rotations that solidify their surgical and clinical expertise, particularly in cataract and refractive surgery.2
Research Opportunities
The UC Davis residency program emphasizes research as a critical component of training. The program fosters an environment for residents to engage in clinical and basic science research, with access to the Center for Vision Science and partnerships with the UC Davis Veterinary School, enhancing collaborative efforts in translational research initiatives.3
Application Process
Applicants are required to submit their applications through SF Match. The residency program aligns its interview dates with a virtual platform, ensuring accessibility for candidates across various locations. Notably, applicants accepted into the program are automatically matched with an integrated PGY-1 internship.4
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is known to support various visa types for international medical graduates, facilitating the inclusion of diverse candidates. It assesses each application comprehensively, maintaining an open stance toward both DO and IMG applicants—fostering an inclusive educational atmosphere.4
Special Requirements
While considering applications, the program may have specific prerequisites regarding the year of graduation and a cap on failed STEP exams to ensure that candidates demonstrate a strong academic foundation.4
Unique Aspects of the Program
The UC Davis Ophthalmology Residency Program prides itself on offering unique experiences such as early surgical exposure, a wide range of clinical settings, and dedicated mentorship from prominent faculty members. With two separate VA hospital rotations, residents gain exposure to diverse patient populations and additional training opportunities that enhance their clinical skills.1
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Director
Nandini Gandhi, MDResidency Program Director, Director of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus Appointed Since July 2018Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
60 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
12 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$82,826First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
12 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
1.1XResidents 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.