Specialty:
Geriatric medicine (Internal medicine)ACGME Code:
1510521046The UC San Diego Medical Center Program in Geriatric Medicine provides an extensive fellowship designed for physicians interested in advanced training in geriatric medicine. The program's goal is to equip trainees with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the geriatric healthcare environment, focusing on comprehensive, interdisciplinary care for older adults.
Program Overview
The Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology & Palliative Care at UC San Diego emphasizes a combination of clinical practice, research, and education to achieve excellence in geriatric care. This is achieved through innovative training methods, academic engagement, and evidence-based practice.
As part of a nationally recognized healthcare system, the program is committed to creating a better world for aging individuals. Training at UC San Diego is informed by the highest standards of clinical excellence and integrated with cutting-edge research, which is critical for any fellow looking to impact the field of geriatrics.
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum offers a balanced approach that includes rotations through various clinical settings where fellows gain practical experience with older patients. Trainees engage with diverse services that focus on managing complex medical conditions associated with aging. Components of the curriculum include:
- Core Geriatric Medicine rotations in inpatient and outpatient settings
- Elective opportunities that allow fellows to focus on specific areas of interest
- Multidisciplinary team experiences to ensure comprehensive patient management
These rotations are designed to provide a thorough understanding of issues such as polypharmacy, geriatric syndromes, cognitive impairments, and chronic disease management.
Research Opportunities
The program integrates research as a fundamental aspect of training. Fellows are encouraged to participate in ongoing research projects within the Division, collaborating with faculty who specialize in aging, gerontology, and palliative care. This hands-on research experience promotes the development of skills necessary for a successful career in geriatric medicine.
Key research focuses include:
- Behavioral and Social Science Research in Alzheimer’s Disease
- Innovations in Palliative Care Strategies
- Technologies for Healthy Aging
Unique Aspects of the Program
The UC San Diego Geriatric Medicine Fellowship distinguishes itself by offering a hybrid model of training that includes both inpatient and outpatient care. This dual exposure enhances the fellow's ability to manage older adults across the continuum of care.
The program also emphasizes advocacy and community outreach as essential components of geriatric medicine. Trainees learn to work collaboratively with families and caregivers to ensure holistic care approaches.
Training Sites
The program encompasses multiple clinical sites, allowing for a comprehensive training experience. Key training sites include:
- UC San Diego Medical Center – leading in healthcare innovation
- Various community health settings throughout San Diego
- In-home healthcare services provided through UCSD at Home program
Visa Support and Requirements
The program supports international medical graduates (IMGs) and offers sponsorship for J-1 visas for eligible fellows. The sponsorship facilitates training for graduates from medical schools outside the United States.
Eligibility criteria include:
- Graduation from medical school within a specified timeframe
- No more than two failed attempts on USMLE Step 1 and Step 2
- Board certification or eligibility in Internal Medicine
Application Competitiveness
The fellowship is regarded as competitive, drawing a diverse applicant pool that includes both U.S. and international graduates. Factors influencing competitiveness include previous clinical experience, commitment to the field of geriatrics, and the ability to demonstrate leadership qualities.
Conclusion
The UC San Diego Geriatric Medicine fellowship provides an enriching environment for fellows dedicated to improving healthcare quality for older adults. With its integrative approach to education and research, the program prepares graduates to face the complexities of geriatric medicine head-on, backed by one of the leading healthcare institutions in the nation.
Web Sources
Accreditation History
Director
- Name
- Roopali Gupta, MD
- Position
- Program Director/Professor
- Appointed Since
- (Since June 2016)
Coordinator
- Name
- Laura Jimenez
- Position
- Laura Jimenez
- lajimenez@health.ucsd.edu
- Phone Number
- (858) 534-6299
Program
Program Size
- - (1 years)
- Accreditation Status
- Continued Accreditation Since July 1988
Composition
- -
Training
- Fellowship Rate:
- -
- Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
- 4.3X
- Residents Career Path
- Residents Career Path
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
40 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
10 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$88,471First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Admission
- USMLE Step 2 Score:
- -
- Visa Sponsorship:
- -
- YOG Cutoff:
- -
Incoming Schools
No data available for Incoming Schools
Race / Ethnicity
No data available for Race / Ethnicity
Gender
No data available for Gender
Rotation Duration by Site
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Location
San Diego, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Rate per 100,000 Residents
Living in San Diego, CA
- Crime Rate and Safety
San Diego is relatively safe compared to other cities of its size. However, like any big city, it has its share of crime. It is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. - Fun Activities
San Diego offers a wide range of activities from beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and cultural sites to a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. There are also numerous theme parks and museums to explore. - Climate
San Diego is known for its pleasant year-round climate with mild winters and warm summers. The city enjoys an average of 266 sunny days per year, making it ideal for outdoor activities. - Races and Population
San Diego is a diverse city with a mix of different cultures and ethnicities. It is home to a significant Hispanic and Asian population, among others. - Education
San Diego is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continuing education and research. The city also has a strong public school system. - Cost of Living
The cost of living in San Diego is higher than the national average, primarily due to housing costs. However, it offers a high quality of life with access to beautiful natural surroundings. - Proximity to Bigger Cities
San Diego is approximately 2 hours from Los Angeles by car, making it easy to visit for a weekend getaway. Los Angeles offers a different experience with its urban sprawl, entertainment industry, and diverse neighborhoods. - Pros
Beautiful beaches, fantastic weather, diverse culture, and proximity to major cities. - Cons
Higher cost of living, traffic congestion in certain areas, and potential for natural disasters like wildfires.
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