University of California (San Diego) Medical Center Program

The UCSD Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine Fellowship is a one-year program designed to provide board-certified or board-eligible physicians with an extensive education in the field of diving and hyperbaric medicine. This ACGME-accredited fellowship equips fellows with essential didactic and practical knowledge to competently function in hyperbaric settings, both clinically and in research environments. Upon completion, fellows are expected to effectively manage a hyperbaric chamber and deliver appropriate hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy for various medical conditions.

The program encompasses a comprehensive curriculum that includes at least 4-6 months of hands-on training at UCSD’s hyperbaric medicine service, 3-4 months at the UCSD Wound Care Centers, dedicated research time, as well as attendance at the UHMS Physicians in Diving Medicine Training course. This program also allows 2 weeks of elective time and a total of 4 weeks of vacation.

Training Locations

The main training site for the fellowship is the UCSD Medical Center Hillcrest, which features a large multiplace hyperbaric chamber. This facility caters to a variety of conditions treatable by HBO therapy and operates with 24/7 on-call staff. Additionally, the center is labeled as a Level 1 Trauma Center and houses the Regional Burn Center, along with full outpatient services including orthopedic, plastic, vascular surgeries, and dedicated wound care.

Moreover, the fellowship includes training at the UCSD Hyperbaric Medicine & Wound Care Center in Encinitas, which operates another multiplace chamber, along with additional outpatient clinics. Fellows also participate in evaluations for diving fitness and manage medical clearances for divers.

Curriculum

The curriculum aims to develop crucial skills and knowledge necessary to evaluate, prescribe, and manage HBO therapy across a spectrum of medical conditions. Key experiences include conducting HBO clinical services, participating in a diving medicine clinic, and engaging in structured didactic learning through a series of lectures and case conferences.

Fellows are required to complete a research project, contribute to journal clubs, and engage with the San Diego Diver Death Committee to investigate diving fatalities. Opportunities for clinical electives with the U.S. Navy and other organizations are also available, expanding the fellows' exposure to diverse clinical scenarios.

Diversity and Inclusion

The UCSD fellowship is deeply committed to enhancing diversity among its fellows. Through various outreach programs, including clinical shadowing and mentoring, the initiative aims to empower underrepresented healthcare professionals. Specific attention is given to LGBTQ health issues, ensuring an inclusive environment while addressing relevant health topics in the curriculum.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for the UCSD Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine Fellowship, candidates must be board-eligible in any clinical specialty and able to secure a California medical license. The program welcomes applications from international medical graduates provided they meet board eligibility criteria in their respective specialties.

Application materials should include three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a CV. Applications will be accepted starting in summer, with interviews arranged soon after all application materials have been reviewed.

Wellness and Support

The fellowship program recognizes the importance of wellness, particularly in the demanding field of medicine. The San Diego area provides an ideal backdrop for maintaining a healthy work-life balance with mild weather, outdoor activities, and a strong supportive community among faculty and peers.

UCSD promotes wellness through a range of activities tailored to fellows, including professional development events aimed at fostering camaraderie, as well as initiatives encouraging interactive participation during social gatherings which address both wellness and professional growth.

Competitiveness

The UCSD Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine Fellowship is considered highly competitive. It trains 2-3 fellows annually, which necessitates strong credentials for successful candidates. The program supports both DO and IMG applicants, emphasizing a commitment to creating a diverse fellowship cohort.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship opportunities for international applicants, specifically for those who are US Board eligible in their primary specialties. This commitment facilitates the entry of diverse candidates, further enriching the fellowship experience.