University of California Davis Health Program

The Surgery General Surgery Residency Program at UC Davis Health is designed to train individuals in both the art and science of surgery, aiming to develop the next generation of surgical leaders. This program spans five clinical years of postgraduate training at the UC Davis Medical Center located in Sacramento, California, and includes training across six affiliated hospitals, ensuring diverse clinical exposure and experience.

This residency is characterized by its commitment to fostering an environment that promotes diversity, innovation, and continuous learning, providing each resident with opportunities to achieve personal career goals. After the third clinical year, residents have the option to pursue an additional 1-2 years dedicated to academic enhancement or research. The educational goals are systematically structured for each clinical year, with the initial year (PGY-1) focused on broad surgical principles and peri-operative care.

Program Structure

The residency program structure includes 9 categorical positions with 7 filled through the NRMP Match and 2 through a military match. Additionally, each year offers 5-13 preliminary positions, with 10-12 typically filled by active duty Air Force physicians, and a variable number of civilian preliminary positions. All residents, regardless of categorical or preliminary status, are presented with equal educational opportunities and are obliged to meet the same performance standards.

Residents are introduced to various Career Development Experiences focusing on distinct interests: Surgeon/Scientist, International/Rural Surgery, Public Policy/Comparative Effectiveness, and Surgical Education. As part of their training, residents participate in a seminar series titled "Residents as Teachers and Leaders" aimed at equipping them with essential teaching and leadership skills.

Clinical Rotations

During the first two years (PGY-1 and PGY-2), residents rotate through nearly all areas of general surgery, including subspecialties. The focus during these years encompasses comprehensive exposure to surgical practices, pre-operative and post-operative patient care, and the development of basic surgical techniques. PGY-1 residents are mainly scheduled at UC Davis Medical Center, and PGY-2 residents continue to refine their skills with both general and subspecialty care rotations, including trauma, pediatric, and vascular surgery.

The third year (PGY-3) allows residents to supervise junior fellows and manage outpatient care alongside participating in moderately complex surgical procedures. Transitioning into the fourth year (PGY-4), residents take on senior responsibilities with rotations in pediatric surgery, transplant, minimally invasive surgery, and general surgery across various medical facilities. The final year (PGY-5) focuses on chief resident experiences in areas such as surgical oncology and trauma, further preparing residents for fellowship or practice in surgical medicine.

Research Opportunities

Research is highly encouraged throughout the residency, with dedicated time set aside for research endeavors between the third and fourth years. The well-established research facilities and faculty at UC Davis support resident involvement in cutting-edge surgical research. Residents have access to resources such as the UC Davis Institute for Regenerative Cures and the Clinical Investigation Facility, fostering a comprehensive training experience that combines clinical and academic excellence.

Application Process

The General Surgery Residency Program participates in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). All potential candidates are required to be eligible for medical licensure in California prior to commencing training. Specifically, the Medical Board of California mandates that residents must secure a medical license before starting their PG-III training year. For international medical graduates, requisite qualifications include holding a current ECFMG certificate and an evaluation status letter from the Medical Board of California.

Competitiveness

The program is highly competitive; however, it remains welcoming to potential applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, including DOs and international medical graduates. The residency aims to ensure that all eligible applicants have access to a fair and comprehensive evaluation during the admissions process.

Visa Support

UC Davis Health provides visa sponsorship, particularly for the J-1 visa, for international medical graduates looking to pursue residency training in the United States. Applicants planning to apply for a residency position should be aware of the legal requirements to remain and work in the U.S. with the appropriate visa documentation.

Resident Well-Being

The residency program also emphasizes the importance of mental and physical well-being, offering resources through initiatives like the UC Davis Health Surgery Residency Well-Being Committee. This committee focuses on combating burnout, improving morale, and ensuring that residents can maintain their health and individuality during their training years.

Living in Sacramento

Sacramento provides a vibrant living environment for residents, combining the amenities of a major city with the appeal of Northern California's natural beauty. Residents enjoy access to many recreational opportunities and cultural attractions, including restaurants, museums, and outdoor activities close by, such as Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley.

Overall, UC Davis Health's General Surgery Residency Program is designed to equip surgical trainees with the necessary skills, experience, and support to thrive in their careers, making it an attractive option for aspiring surgeons.