University of California Davis Health Program

UC Davis Health offers a Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program located in Sacramento, dedicated to training skilled and knowledgeable cardiac and thoracic surgeons. This independent program has a long-standing tradition since its inception in 1993, focusing on not only clinical expertise but also on fostering scientific inquiry and the intellectual development of its residents. The program is consistently recognized among the top in the nation by "U.S. News and World Report" for its excellence in cardiology and heart surgery, as well as in pulmonology and lung surgery. As such, it aims to develop well-rounded surgeons prepared for both private practice and academia without necessitating further postgraduate fellowship training.1

Program Objectives

The key objectives of the Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program at UC Davis include:

• Providing a comprehensive educational curriculum focusing on the intellectual and professional maturation of residents.
• Encouraging resident-led research initiatives that can transform patient care practices.
• Training culturally competent surgeons who practice patient-centered care.
• Ensuring residents can deliver high-quality cardiothoracic surgical care to their communities.
• Offering a foundation for graduates to become future leaders and innovators in the field.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency program comprises a two-year Independent Pathway, specifically designed for surgical residents who have already completed an accredited general surgery program and are looking to specialize in thoracic surgery. During this period, residents will engage in both cardiac and thoracic surgical procedures, with a strong emphasis on hands-on training and mentorship.

Residents are exposed to several clinical rotations, which cover comprehensive competencies in various cardiothoracic surgical techniques. Each rotation integrates outpatient instruction and responsibilities, with an emphasis on pre-operative assessment, management, and postoperative care.1

Rotations include:

• General Thoracic Surgery
• Adult Cardiac Surgery
• Pediatric Cardiac Surgery

The program is aimed at ensuring residents exceed the minimum training requirements established by national accreditation boards, thus making them exceptionally competitive when seeking further opportunities or positions post-residency.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the residency experience at UC Davis. Residents are encouraged to engage in at least one clinical research project annually.1 Funding is available to support presentations at regional and national meetings, establishing a solid foundation for future academic endeavors. Faculty members play a pivotal role in fostering research through active participation in numerous clinical trials and investigations. Past research initiatives have included diverse topics such as myocardial protection and management in lung cancer surgeries.1

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The UC Davis Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency is known for being highly competitive. It welcomes both U.S. graduates from accredited medical schools and international medical graduates, making it relatively friendly for DO and IMG applicants. Applicants interested in the Independent Pathway must meet specific qualifications, including:

• Graduation from an accredited U.S. or Canadian medical school or from osteopathic medical colleges approved by the AOA.
• Possession of a California medical license prior to the start of the residency training year.

Additionally, the program typically does not have a strict limit on the number of attempts for the USMLE; however, each applicant's academic performance is thoroughly evaluated.

Visa Sponsorship

UC Davis Health actively supports international medical graduates during the application process through detailed visa assistance. The program participates in sponsorship for the J-1 visa, which is typically used for residents. The program provides guidance on visa applications and helps candidates navigate any associated documentation required for their training.1

Living in Sacramento

Residents will find Sacramento to be an inviting city with a balance of urban amenities and natural beauty, being home to Sacramento Kings and numerous attractions such as museums and parks. The city is considered affordable compared to other California metropolis areas, offering a pleasant community environment enriched by its rich cultural and artistic scene, making it conducive for both professional and personal fulfillment.1

Given the confluence of comprehensive surgical education, rigorous clinical training, and a supportive and equitable environment, UC Davis Health's Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency Program stands as a premier choice for aspiring cardiothoracic surgeons seeking a robust training experience and career development.