Dr. Vail is an outstanding chair. He has transformed the program and is commited to continuing to grow and evolve the program. He is very accessible and extremely well regarded in the field.
Didactics / Teaching
Daily service specific conference with grand rounds, case conference and 2 hours of formal lecture every Wednesday morning. All residents come together on Wednesdays. This is unique and very nice.
Operating Experience
Robust. Many clinical sites and attendings with only 7 residents per year. Double scrubbing is uncommon. Chiefs are extremely competent.
Clinic Experience
Many high volume clinics. Teaching and service are well balanced.
Research Opportunities
Dedicated research block as PGY-3. Projects and resources are virtually without limit.
Residents
Highlight of the program. The residents are what make this program great above all else. Extremely close group of work hard / play hard individuals. There is great mentorship for junior residents and interns.
Lifestyle
Hardworking residency, however, vacation and academic time is protected and respected. Residents are very active outside of work. Lots to do in SF and surrounding area.
Location / Housing
San Francisco speaks for itself. Lots to do and see. Great access to outdoors and top notch food, music and art. Housing is expensive, $8,000 per annum housing stipend makes it easier to live and work in SF.
Limitations
Residents rotate at multiple clinical sites, however it is doable and parking is available.
Houseing is expensive.
Overall Rotation Experience / Conclusion
Top program that will only get better. World class faculty, facilities and research plus a great group of residents all in San Francisco is tough to beat.
A brand new San Francisco General Hospital and Benioff Women and Children's Hospital are currently under construction. UCSF has expanded its pediatrics program to include faculty at Oakland Children's Hospital. These additions will futher enhance a great program.
