University of California (San Francisco)/Fresno Program

Overview of the UCSF Fresno Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program

The UCSF Fresno Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology offers a four-year ACGME-accredited residency program. This program is designed to equip residents with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in both general practice and subspecialty training in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN). The residency program emphasizes hands-on clinical training, providing residents with ample opportunities to engage with diverse patient populations and a wide range of clinical situations.

Curriculum

The curriculum of the UCSF Fresno OB/GYN residency is structured to fulfill the CREOG Educational Objectives, focusing on competency-based education that includes clinical knowledge, technical skills, and surgical maturity. Residents will engage in various educational activities, such as:

• Participating in OB/GYN teaching rounds
• Undergoing ultrasound training
• Attending faculty and peer presentations
• Joining weekly protected didactic sessions
• Engaging in evidence-based medicine forums
• Reviewing OB/GYN cases
• Contributing to surgical skills labs and journal clubs
• Completing protected research time during the 2nd and 3rd years

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that residents not only achieve board certification but are also prepared to enter any practice setting upon graduation.

Rotations

The residency training includes multiple rotations to ensure a well-rounded experience. First-year residents begin with a Night Float/Labor and Delivery rotation, gaining foundational skills necessary for managing antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum care. Other rotations include:

• High-Risk OB/Prenatal Diagnostic Center
• Gynecology
• Internal Medicine Ambulatory Care
• Research
• Gynecologic Oncology

As residents progress, they assume more responsibilities, mentoring junior residents and medical students, culminating in senior-level rotations that emphasize independent decision-making and complex case management.

Research Opportunities

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UCSF Fresno encourages residents to engage in various research activities, ranging from basic science to quality improvement initiatives. Residents are required to complete a Quality Improvement (QI) project during their training. Additionally, they are expected to conduct a scientific research project to be presented during their Chief year at Resident Research Day. Previous projects have addressed critical issues relating to maternal-fetal health and public health in the San Joaquin Valley.

Facilities and Training Sites

The primary training site is Community Regional Medical Center (CRMC), which handles over 5,000 births annually and offers advanced healthcare facilities, including a Level III neonatal intensive care unit. Residents also rotate through other affiliated facilities, such as Clovis Community Medical Center and various outpatient centers. The program ensures that residents gain diverse clinical experiences by integrating academic and private practice settings.

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity is a key focus of the UCSF Fresno OB/GYN program. The residency is designed to prepare physicians to serve the diverse population of California's Central Valley. The program recruits residents from various backgrounds, and a commitment to cultural humility and sensitivity is integral to the training and practice philosophy.

Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements

The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates, specifically H-1B and J-1 visa types, ensuring that residents from diverse international backgrounds can access training opportunities. The UCSF Fresno OB/GYN residency also has specific application requirements which include:

• Graduation from medical school within the last five years
• Submission of USMLE scores (Step 1 and Step 2)
• Three letters of recommendation (including at least one from an OB/GYN physician)
• Completion of a supplemental questionnaire

While the program is competitive, it is known to be friendly towards DO and IMG applicants, fostering an inclusive atmosphere throughout the selection process.

Wellness Initiatives

The residency program at UCSF Fresno places a strong emphasis on resident wellness, recognizing the challenges of medical training. Through the multidisciplinary LIVE (Life, Inspiration, Vitality, Engagement) committee, various activities are organized to promote physical and psychological well-being, team building, and morale. Initiatives include wellness retreats, cooking classes, and community service opportunities to engage residents outside the clinical environment.

Program Statistics

UCSF Fresno boasts a pass rate for board exams above the 90th percentile, reflecting the efficacy of its training methods. Residents engage in a high volume of procedures that prepare them for real-world challenges and positions in underserved areas or advanced fellowship training.