University of California (Irvine) Program
Location:
Orange, CASpecialty:
Pain medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5300504002The UCI Pain Medicine Fellowship is an ACGME-accredited program that offers a comprehensive training experience in multidisciplinary pain assessment and treatment. As the only academic pain medicine program in Orange County, the fellowship focuses on advanced interventional techniques and safe opioid prescribing practices. The structure of the fellowship includes three ACGME-accredited positions for one year, emphasizing solid mentorship and collaboration with expert staff.
Program Overview and Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to provide fellows with a strong foundation in evidence-based scientific principles alongside exceptional bedside clinical skills. A rigorous, structured curriculum prepares fellows for board certification and their future careers. Rotations encompass various specialties, including anesthesiology, neurology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, medicine, neuroradiology, palliative care, and psychiatry, ensuring a well-rounded training experience.1
Fellows will partake in workshops focused on ultrasound-guided regional blocks and interventional pain procedures, as well as simulated surgical skills training. The program integrates additional hands-on education through invited guest faculty who contribute to interactive sessions covering a vast array of relevant medical disciplines.1
Fellows are encouraged to manage inpatient chronic pain consultations while also engaging in internal moonlighting for anesthesiology. This dual role helps produce clinicians comfortable in practice settings and ready for complex patient management.1
Clinical Experience
Fellowship training is conducted at the UCI Health Center for Pain & Wellness and UCI Medical Center, giving ample access to diverse patient populations and advanced procedural facilities. Fellows are involved in managing acute postoperative and severe chronic pain cases, performing a range of interventional pain procedures including sympathetic injections, radiofrequency ablation, and various injection techniques.1
Moreover, the program emphasizes multidisciplinary team collaboration, as fellows will interface with primary care doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and therapists to create comprehensive surgical pain management plans.1
Research Opportunities
The UCI Anesthesiology & Perioperative Care research division fosters a rich environment for scholarly activity. The fellowship offers numerous basic science and clinical research opportunities, particularly in emerging and controversial areas such as cannabis research and pediatric pain management initiatives. Fellows are supported in attending national conferences to present their research, further enriching their academic experience.1
Application Requirements
Applicants interested in joining the UCI Pain Medicine Fellowship must possess a valid and unrestricted medical license. Clinicians holding a residency in any discipline offering ABMS certification in pain medicine can apply. The fellowship program adheres to a nationwide best practice for easing the transition from residency to fellowship, aligning with an August 1 start date.1
The program does not allow for multiple failed attempts on the USMLE examinations, maintaining a competitive selection process.1
Visa Support
The fellowship also offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates. The specific visa types may include J-1 for exchange visitors, as well as H-1B for specialty occupation workers, contingent upon the respective suitability and compliance with requirements set by the program and the American Medical Association.1
Competitiveness and Inclusivity
The fellowship is highly competitive, aiming to attract a diverse group of applicants seeking to further their education and experience in pain medicine. The program is favorable towards a range of educational backgrounds, thus welcoming candidates from both osteopathic (DO) and international medical graduate (IMG) populations.1
In addition to strong clinical training, the fellowship emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within its framework, aiming to reflect the diverse communities in which its residents will practice.1
Fellows not only receive training in clinical skills but also benefit from mentorship opportunities tailored to foster leadership skills in addressing contemporary challenges in pain management.1
Website
Director
Rakhi Dayal, MBBSProfessor, Program Director, Pain Medicine Appointed Since February 2018Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$97,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Orange, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Orange, CA
Orange, CA is a city located in the heart of Orange County, known for its vibrant community and pleasant weather. Here's a breakdown of living in Orange, CA:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Orange, CA is considered a relatively safe city with a lower crime rate compared to neighboring areas. Residents generally feel safe walking around the city.
- Fun Activities: Orange offers a variety of activities, including exploring Old Towne Orange, visiting local parks, shopping at The Outlets at Orange, and enjoying nearby beaches like Newport Beach.
- Climate: Orange has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities year-round.
- Races and Population: The population of Orange is diverse, with a mix of various races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural experience.
- Education: Orange is home to several educational institutions, including Chapman University, providing opportunities for learning and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Orange is higher than the national average, especially in terms of housing. However, the quality of life and amenities in the area contribute to the value.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Orange is located approximately 30 minutes from Los Angeles and about 20 minutes from Anaheim. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences, entertainment options, and career opportunities.
Pros: Pleasant weather, diverse community, proximity to major cities.
Cons: Higher cost of living, especially in housing.
Interview Questions
