University of California (San Diego) Medical Center Program

The University of California, San Diego Medical Center program in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery offers comprehensive training in the realm of obstetrics and gynecology with a specialized focus on women's pelvic health. This program is designed to develop the next generation of leaders in urogynecology, integrating rigorous clinical practice with investigative research and educational excellence.

Program Structure

The program is structured as a three-year fellowship that is ACGME-accredited, attracting highly qualified candidates interested in pursuing a career in academic medicine and bringing advancements to the field. The educational components are designed to equip fellows with the knowledge and skills necessary for clinical excellence in a variety of surgical techniques, including open, laparoscopic, vaginal, and robotic procedures. This diverse training prepares fellows to handle complex cases in both incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

Clinical Training

Clinical training is paramount within the program. Fellows gain experience through rotations at UC San Diego Medical Center, where they have the opportunity to work alongside fellowship-trained specialists in a multidisciplinary environment. They are exposed to a wide range of clinical problems, and the program emphasizes a collaborative approach to care, combining obstetrics, gynecology, and urology. This integration allows for comprehensive patient management, particularly at the UC San Diego Women's Pelvic Medicine Center, which offers specialized services for pelvic health issues.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component that underpins the program's mission. The division continually advances its research portfolio through extramural funding, focusing on fundamental aspects of pelvic floor dysfunction, bladder health, and surgical outcomes. Research topics include the pathophysiology of pelvic soft tissues, the urobiome's role in pelvic health, and quality metrics regarding postoperative outcomes, including urinary tract infection rates and hospital readmission statistics. Fellows are encouraged to engage in these projects actively, contributing to studies that can shape future treatment protocols.

Educational Excellence

The commitment to education is reflected in the fellowship's training modalities. The program provides mentors who are experienced clinicians and researchers, fostering an environment where fellows can learn about both clinical practice and scientific inquiry. The division also sponsors various educational initiatives, including seminars and workshops, which encourage ongoing professional development and networking among fellows and faculty.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program supports international applicants by sponsoring visas. The type of visa typically sponsored is the J-1 visa, which is often required for international medical graduates looking to pursue a fellowship in the United States.

This fellowship is highly competitive, making it an appealing option for both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), including those with a DO degree. Candidates who have completed their residency in a relevant specialty are encouraged to apply, although specific application requirements regarding years since graduation and maximum failed Step exams should be verified when submitting an application.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinctive features of the UC San Diego program is its integration with the Urobiome research initiatives. The department is actively involved in advancing knowledge pertaining to the urinary microbiome, which is an emerging area of interest that has significant implications for pelvic health and disease management. Events such as UROBIOME 2025 reflect the program's outreach to both academic and clinical communities, emphasizing its commitment to lead discussions and conferences that shape the future of urogynecology.