Unique Features and Highlights

ATTENTION: Applications for this program will be available beginning in January 2025 with start dates in 2026.

Physician Assistant Residents primarily train at Community Regional Medical Center (CRMC), the only American College of Surgeons (ACS) verified Level 1 trauma center and burn unit serving the San Joaquin Valley with a population of four million people. There is broad exposure to a wide range of patient population and ages, from pediatric to geriatric, and most importantly, to rare surgical pathologies, and advanced disease processes. Other rotation sites offer exposure to private practice models.

Residents have broad exposure to many specialties of general surgery, including trauma and acute care surgery, burns, vascular, endocrine, orthopedics and urology. The Leon S. Peters Burn Center, located at CRMC, is the Central Valley’s only burn center and provides residents with hands on experience in providing comprehensive burn care.

Other unique features include a recently renovated simulation lab with 24-hour access, hands-on exposure to the Da Vinci Robotic system, a robust weekly didactic schedule, and a monthly PA dedicated skills lab session.

 

Life in the Central Valley

Life is good in the Central San Joaquin Valley. UCSF Fresno/CRMC is located in downtown Fresno, CA, which is the 5th largest city in California. This growing city is within 50 miles of three national parks: Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Yosemite National Park. Faculty, residents, and fellows can enjoy numerous outdoor activities including fishing, white water rafting, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and boating. Weekend trips to San Francisco, Los Angeles, the Central coast, and nearby wineries such as Napa Valley can be easily made. Most importantly, cost of living in Fresno is relatively inexpensive and very affordable.

The Central Valley also has a diverse population. The different ethnicities offer an extensive variety of food and culture. From the unique Tower District with its eclectic shops to coffee shops, to local wineries and breweries, to the annual Clovis Rodeo, Fresno offers a little bit of something for everyone.