Cleveland Clinic Foundation Program

Overview of the Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship Program

The Cleveland Clinic's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship Program is meticulously designed to cultivate highly skilled orthopaedic surgeons specializing in the unique demands of athletic medicine and sports-related trauma. The fellowship spans one year, from August 1 to July 31, and is fully accredited by the ACGME. The program accepts fellows with diverse backgrounds striving to excel in sports medicine while ensuring a robust educational experience.

Curriculum and Training

Fellows will engage deeply in both surgical and non-surgical diagnostic management, enhancing their clinical proficiency while also contributing to athletic medicine through research projects. The fellowship emphasizes collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic Sports Medicine Center, which provides comprehensive care for athletes at various levels, including high school, collegiate, and professional sports. This includes team physician responsibilities for numerous local high school teams and professional organizations such as the Cleveland Cavaliers and Cleveland Guardians, allowing for rich experiential learning within dynamic settings.

Rotations

Fellows are afforded an expansive range of learning opportunities, working alongside distinguished sports medicine physicians, orthopaedic surgeons, and specialists in related fields like cardiology and radiology. This multifaceted exposure includes both outpatient clinics and surgical rotations. The curriculum is enriched by a robust radiology program featuring training in MSK ultrasound, CT, and MRI interpretations.

Research and Academic Development

An important component of the fellowship is the completion of a research project. Fellows are matched with faculty mentors to facilitate their research throughout the year, culminating in presentation opportunities at significant conferences such as the Cleveland Clinic Orthopaedic Department Research Day. They are also encouraged to submit their findings for publication, prioritizing academic productivity alongside clinical excellence.

Lectures and Conferences

The educational structure includes a series of formal didactic lectures and weekly case presentations. These sessions cover a comprehensive spectrum of topics within orthopaedic sports medicine, enhancing the fellows' presentation skills and fostering a strong foundation for both academic and clinical career trajectories. Regularly scheduled conferences, such as the Orthopaedic Grand Rounds and regional journal club meetings, augment the fellows' learning experience.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program distinguishes itself through its comprehensive structure that integrates clinical experience, research opportunities, and teaching responsibilities. Fellows are expected to not only gain technical skills but also develop teaching capabilities, mentoring orthopaedic residents and contributing to the overall educational ecosystem at the Cleveland Clinic.

Application Process and Requirements

Applications for the fellowship are accepted annually from November 1 to December 31. Eligible candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program in Orthopaedic Surgery or a related field. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and graduates from osteopathic institutions are encouraged to apply and must fulfill the necessary visa requirements defined by the Cleveland Clinic's Graduate Medical Education office.

Competitiveness and Funding

The fellowship is competitive, attracting highly qualified candidates from across the nation. Candidates are evaluated based on their academic performance, clinical experience, research contributions, and interview performance. The fellowship provides a stipend of $58,188 per year, coupled with comprehensive benefits to ensure a supportive and enriching environment.

Visa Support

The Cleveland Clinic offers visa sponsorship for international fellows. Candidates can apply for J-1 Exchange Visitor (ECFMG sponsored) or H1-B Temporary Worker visas provided they meet specific eligibility criteria. For further details on the application process and visa support, prospective fellows are encouraged to consult the Graduate Medical Education specifications set out by the Cleveland Clinic.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Cleveland Clinic actively promotes diversity and inclusion within its fellowship programs. They strive to create an environment that embraces individuals from all backgrounds, fostering a culture of collaboration, learning, and growth.