University of California Riverside School of Medicine/St. Bernardine Medical Center – Dignity Health Program
Location:
Riverside, CASpecialty:
GastroenterologyACGME Code:
1440514237The Gastrointestinal Diseases Fellowship Program at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine is designed to cultivate skilled gastroenterologists through a robust three-year curriculum. This program is anchored at St. Bernardine Medical Center in San Bernardino, California, a facility endorsed for its comprehensive care and advanced clinical training capabilities.
Program Structure
The fellowship program integrates strong clinical training with a multidisciplinary team approach, ensuring fellows are well-prepared for both outpatient and inpatient care. The training encompasses a variety of rotations and educational activities aimed at producing well-rounded gastroenterologists suited for clinical practice and academic medicine, focusing especially on underserved communities in Inland Southern California 8.
Curricular Components
The curriculum is structured to provide extensive exposure to various aspects of gastroenterology, including diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, chronic liver disease management, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Fellows are expected to engage in clinical rotations that cover a spectrum of gastroenterology-related cases, supplemented by didactic sessions that reinforce their clinical knowledge.
Application and Selection Criteria
The fellowship program participates in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and accepts applications exclusively via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Annually, the program selects two fellows, culminating in a total of six fellows throughout the training cycle. Important application components include a curriculum vitae, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and documentation of relevant training 8.
Competitiveness and Requirements
The program is competitive, attracting applicants from various backgrounds, including both MD and DO graduates. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Key requirements may include USMLE or COMLEX scores, with specifics on any failed attempts varying annually.
Training Environment
St. Bernardine Medical Center, the primary clinic site for the fellowship, is a 342-bed facility that provides cutting-edge clinical services and hosts a busy gastroenterology department. The center is recognized for its strengths in both general gastroenterology and subspecialties, making it an ideal training ground for fellows 8.
Rotations and Experience
Fellows rotate through diverse clinical settings, gaining experience in various gastroenterology outpatient clinics and inpatient services. Each rotation is designed to develop comprehensive skills in the management of gastrointestinal diseases, enhancing procedural knowledge and patient care 8.
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship, with fellows encouraged to participate in quality improvement projects, clinical trials, and scholarly activities related to gastroenterology. Mentorship from faculty is readily available, aiding fellows in their pursuit of innovative research initiatives 8.
Visa Support
The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible candidates, typically through J-1 or H-1B visa categories, facilitating the inclusion of international medical graduates into their training framework.
Salary and Benefits
Fellows are employed by the University of California, Riverside, and receive competitive salaries along with comprehensive benefits including health insurance, vacation, and paid leaves. Further details regarding specific benefits can be found through internal resources 8.
Commitment to Underserved Communities
The mission of the fellowship extends beyond academic excellence, emphasizing the importance of serving the underserved populations in the Inland Empire. This focus not only enriches the fellowship experience but also instills a sense of responsible service among the trainees 7.
Website
Director
Zeid Kayali, MD, MBAProgram Director Appointed Since July 2016Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,200First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Riverside, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Riverside, CA
- Crime rate and safety: Riverside has a moderate crime rate. While some areas may have higher crime rates, overall, Riverside is considered relatively safe.
- Fun activities: Riverside offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and visiting parks. The city also has cultural attractions, shopping centers, and restaurants to enjoy.
- Climate: Riverside has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for hot temperatures during the summer months.
- Races and population: Riverside is a diverse city with a population that includes people of various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Riverside is home to the University of California, Riverside, as well as other higher education institutions.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Riverside is lower than in some other areas of California, making it more affordable for residents.
- Nearby cities: Riverside is about an hour's drive from Los Angeles and about 45 minutes from Anaheim. Both cities offer a wide range of entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse population, proximity to larger cities.
- Cons: Hot summer temperatures, moderate crime rate in some areas.
Interview Questions
