East Tennessee State University/Quillen College of Medicine Program

The ETSU Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at Quillen College of Medicine is a five-year ACGME accredited residency that prepares graduates for board examinations conducted by either the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) or the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (AOBOS). The rigorous training includes rotations across three key hospitals: Johnson City Medical Center, Holston Valley Medical Center, and Bristol Regional Medical Center, as well as in various outpatient surgical centers and orthopedic practices throughout the Tri-Cities region, encompassing Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol, TN 1.

The program comprises a diverse faculty with specialized training in varied areas including hand and upper extremity, sports medicine, trauma, spine, pediatric orthopedics, and hip and knee replacement. This breadth of expertise allows residents to receive comprehensive training across general and subspecialty orthopaedics 1.

Curriculum

The residency curriculum is meticulously designed to enhance both clinical and didactic educational experiences. The first-year (PGY-1) comprises core rotations in general orthopaedics, trauma, and general surgery, alongside additional exposure to neurosurgery, emergency medicine, and plastics 7. Each subsequent year expands on these foundations, focusing on specialized areas such as pediatric orthopaedics and spine 8. Notably, residents engage in simulation training to hone essential surgical skills throughout their training 8.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes the importance of research, encouraging residents to actively participate in scholarly activities within the field of orthopaedics. Participation in research is particularly valued during the selection of residents, and the faculty dedicate efforts to support research endeavors throughout residency 7.

Training Sites

Key training sites include:

• Johnson City Medical Center: A 407-bed non-profit hospital with a Level I Trauma Center.
• Holston Valley Medical Center: A 345-bed facility recognized nationally for its neurological care and cardiovascular services.
• Bristol Regional Medical Center: Engages in various surgical specialties and outpatient services.

These institutions provide a comprehensive training environment with access to a wide array of clinical experiences relevant to modern orthopaedic practice 9.

Benefits and Salary

The residency offers competitive salaries, starting at $59,827 for PGY-1, with periodic increases up to $68,688 for PGY-5 5. Residents enjoy a package of benefits including health insurance, annual leave, sick leave, and educational leave to attend conferences 5.

Application Requirements

To apply, candidates must submit their applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and should ideally graduate from an accredited U.S. medical school or equivalent within the last year. Candidates are required to present a minimum USMLE Step 1 score of 240 or COMLEX Level 1 score of 600 on the first attempt to qualify for consideration 4.

The program values diversity and does not discriminate in selecting candidates based on gender, race, or national origin 4.

Visa Support

The program sponsors J-1 visas, accommodating international medical graduates seeking residency training in orthopaedic surgery 4.

Competitiveness and Applicant Pool

The ETSU Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program is known for its competitive application process. It is open to both DO and IMG candidates, maintaining a commitment to diversity in resident selection. Research experience is highly regarded, which may enhance the competitiveness of an applicant 4.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Residents are afforded unique opportunities for wellness and professional development through programs including wellness days off, access to modern facilities for fitness, and various educational subscriptions that aid in their clinical learning 5.