University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (USC/LA General) Program
Location:
Los Angeles, CASpecialty:
Emergency medical servicesACGME Code:
1120511003The USC/Los Angeles General Medical Center (LA General) program in Emergency Medicine offers a comprehensive training pathway for residents interested in pursuing a career in emergency medicine. The program is designed to provide a rigorous and engaging educational experience through a well-rounded curriculum, diverse clinical rotations, and opportunities for research and professional development.
Program Overview
This residency program is aimed at equipping residents with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of emergency medicine. The curriculum spans a total of four years, starting from the first postgraduate year (PGY-1) and culminating in PGY-4. Residents are exposed to various aspects of emergency medicine, including pre-hospital emergency care, clinical stabilization, and the management of a wide array of acute medical conditions.
Clinical Rotations
Residents rotate through multiple clinical sites, which include:
- Los Angeles General Medical Center: A large, urban safety-net hospital that provides care to a diverse patient population facing various medical challenges.
- Keck Hospital of USC: A tertiary/quaternary care facility that offers specialty care and serves as a referral center for complex cases.
- Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA): These facilities provide specialized training in rehabilitation and pediatric emergency medicine.
The clinical rotations are structured to ensure residents gain hands-on experience in various emergency medicine competencies, including trauma, critical care, and disaster medicine.
Curriculum
The curriculum follows an innovative model that integrates didactic education with practical training. Core subjects include:
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and pre-hospital care
- Critical care management
- Trauma assessment and intervention
- Pediatric emergency care
- Comprehensive assessment and treatment of acute medical conditions
Regular lectures, workshops, and simulation training sessions enhance residents' clinical skills and knowledge. The educational experience is complemented by involvement in grand rounds, morbidity and mortality conferences, and case-based learning.
Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes research as an integral part of emergency medicine training. Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects, particularly those that focus on significant issues impacting emergency care delivery. Opportunities may include:
- Clinical trials and performance improvement studies
- Health services research
- Collaborative research across specialties
Research mentorship is provided, facilitating publication and presentation of findings at national conferences.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The USC/LA General program in Emergency Medicine is highly competitive. It welcomes applications from international medical graduates (IMGs) and considers both DO and MD candidates. The selection process emphasizes a holistic review of applicants. Specific application requirements may include:
- Completion of medical school within a specified timeframe (usually within the last few years)
- Acceptable USMLE scores
- Limited attempts on board examinations (specific thresholds may apply)
- Letters of recommendation (usually three or more, highlighting clinical performance and potential)
The program accepts international trainees and can sponsor J-1 visas, ensuring a welcoming environment for IMGs looking to advance their emergency medicine training.
Resident Life
Residents at the USC/LA General program benefit from a supportive community environment that fosters personal growth and professional networking. The program hosts various social events, educational retreats, and wellness initiatives. The location in downtown Los Angeles allows for diverse occupational and recreational activities, enhancing overall resident experience.
Benefits and Salary
The residency program offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Educational stipend for books and conferences
- Parking and meal allowances at training sites
The exact details on the salary scale and benefits can vary, yet the program ensures financial support aligns with other competitive residency programs.
Conclusion
Graduates of the USC/LA General program are well-prepared to practice emergency medicine in various settings, ranging from high-acuity academic medical centers to community hospitals. The program offers unparalleled training opportunities, making it a desirable choice for future emergency medicine leaders.
Website
- 1 .Residency Program - Department of Neurology
- 2 .Fellowship Programs - Department of Neurology
- 3 .USC Neurobehavioral / Neuropsychiatry Fellowship Program
- 4 .USC Clinical Neurophysiology Program - Department of Neurology
- 5 .USC Epilepsy Fellowship - Department of Neurology
- 6 .USC Headache Fellowship Program - Department of Neurology
Director
Stephen G Sanko, MDProgram Director Appointed Since December 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$84,123First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Los Angeles, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Los Angeles, CA
- Crime rate and safety: Los Angeles has a moderate crime rate with certain neighborhoods having higher crime rates than others. It's recommended to research and choose a safe area to live in.
- Fun activities: Los Angeles is known for its diverse entertainment options, such as Hollywood attractions, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Climate: Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It is generally sunny throughout the year.
- Races and population: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population representing various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Los Angeles is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering a wide range of educational opportunities.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Los Angeles is relatively high compared to other cities in the U.S., especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
- Proximity to bigger cities: Nearby bigger cities include San Diego (about 2-3 hours drive) and San Francisco (about 6-7 hours drive), offering additional urban experiences.
- Pros: Exciting cultural opportunities, diverse culinary experiences, access to beautiful beaches, great weather, and potential networking opportunities in the entertainment industry.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, air pollution, and housing affordability challenges.
Interview Questions
