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University of California (San Diego) Medical Center Program

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San Diego, CA

Specialty:

Geriatric medicine (Internal medicine)

ACGME Code:

1510521046
Fellowship

The 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

2000 - 2001
Continued
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2025 - 2026
Continued (Current)
2025
0
Full Accreditation
26
Continued
0
Warning/Probation
0
Special Conditions

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Director

Name
Roopali Gupta, MD
Position
Program Director/Professor
Appointed Since
  (Since June 2016)

Coordinator

Name
Laura Jimenez
Position
Laura Jimenez
Email
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 hours

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

10 hours

First Year Salary:

$88,471

First 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

No data available for Incoming Schools

Race / Ethnicity

No data available for Race / Ethnicity

No data available for Race / Ethnicity

Gender

No data available for Gender

No data available for Gender

Rotation Duration by Site

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Location

San Diego, CA

Population
3,298,634
Income
$103,674
Education
43.5%
Employment
60.5%
Health
5.9%
Age
37
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

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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