Frequently Asked Questions

Q: If I complete a residency at Kaiser, do I have to practice with Kaiser afterwards? Will I be competitive in the non-Kaiser job market?

A: The goal of our programs is to produce well-rounded, highly trained, physicians who can practice in the medical environment of their choice after graduation. Many of our graduates were so satisfied with their training and clinical experience they decided to continue their career with Kaiser; others have gone on to successful practices in academic medicine, private/group practice, or rural settings.

Q: Can I do research during my residency?

A: Many of our residents and fellows are involved in current clinical studies. Kaiser has access to a large patient panel that provides unique opportunities for research. We also supply the resources needed to assist you with finding a hypothesis, identifying literature resources, and receiving funding.

Q: What opportunities does Kaiser offer that other residencies may not offer?

A: Kaiser offers both tertiary and community based programs that are reflective of a real private or group practice. Our residents are given the opportunity to focus on learning and developing their clinical skills without having to worry about overwhelming amounts of paperwork from multiple insurance companies. We temper our training with good exposure to academics for those who may want to continue as teachers or in research and fellowship programs after residency.

Q: Does Kaiser restrict ordering tests and consults?

A: No. Our physicians are responsible for recommending the best course of treatment for their patients, including referrals to our own highly qualified specialists. Residents and fellows are given appropriate autonomy to make medical decisions in the best interest of the patients they treat.

Q: What are my chances of obtaining a fellowship after graduating from Kaiser?

A: Kaiser is recognized as an excellent clinical training program, thus many of our graduates have matched into competitive fellowships. Kaiser Permanente also offers many fellowships.

Q: What type of board scores are necessary to get in to your programs?

A: Kaiser Residency and Fellowship programs are very competitive. Each year we receive hundreds of applications. However, each program makes selections for interview and match based on the entire applicant's file. It's important to have a well rounded file that includes solid board scores, community involvement, and letters of recommendation from your specialty of interest.

Q: I'd like to do a medical externship with Kaiser, but I have been away from medical school for a few years and am not currently in a residency program. What do I have to do to qualify for training?

A: To qualify for clinical externships all applicants must be currently affiliated with a Medical School or U.S. residency training program and covered by medical liability insurance.

If you have a question you would like to ask, please e-mail us at socal.residency@kp.org