HealthPartners Institute/Regions Hospital Program

The Hand Surgery Fellowship at HealthPartners Institute provides a comprehensive training experience that equips fellows with a robust expertise in hand surgery. This program allows fellows to manage complex hand trauma, involving intricate microvascular procedures at two Level I trauma centers, while also engaging in elective hand procedures and addressing congenital hand differences at Gillette Children’s Hospital.

Fellows will participate actively in clinical research or quality improvement projects, supported by funding and administrative assistance. On-call responsibilities are structured at six nights per month, allowing fellows to maintain a balanced workload while gaining extensive clinical exposure.

Eligibility and Application Process

Applicants must have completed a residency in orthopedic, plastic, or general surgery to qualify for the fellowship program. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), ensuring that it meets the high standards necessary for graduate medical education. Entry into the fellowship is coordinated through the National Resident Match Program, highlighting its structured selection process.

Training Sites

The fellowship spans multiple training sites, each contributing to a well-rounded educational experience:

• Regions Hospital (Level I Trauma Center): This facility focuses on managing acute and subacute trauma, performing elective outpatient surgery, and catering to pediatric cases.
• M Health Fairview: Provides exposure to acute and chronic hand conditions, complemented by didactic sessions.
• Hennepin Healthcare: Offers experience in acute and subacute trauma, including elbow and shoulder injuries.
• TRIA Orthopedic: Focuses on elective outpatient surgeries.
• Gillette Children’s Hospital: Dedicated to pediatric hand cases, ensuring fellows gain experience with younger populations.

Research and Quality Improvement

Fellows are encouraged to engage in clinical research and quality improvement initiatives, fostering a scholarly approach to hand surgery. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and encourages fellows to publish their research findings, which significantly enriches their medical training and enhances their professional profiles.

Unique Aspects

The Hand Surgery Fellowship prioritizes a diverse and inclusive educational environment where collaborative learning is encouraged. Trainees will work closely with board-certified orthopedic and plastic surgeons, gaining insights from experienced educators who are dedicated to mentoring the next generation of hand surgeons. The combination of intensive clinical experience and focused mentorship fosters a culture of excellence in care and education.

Visa Sponsorship

International medical graduates seeking to apply for the Hand Surgery Fellowship program can be sponsored for appropriate visa types, allowing them to fulfill their training requirements in the United States. Visa support is crucial for creating a diverse educational environment that benefits all trainees.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is competitive, requiring a robust background in relevant surgical specialties. While both DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) and IMG (International Medical Graduate) applications are welcome, candidates must meet the stipulated prerequisites and demonstrate exceptional clinical acumen in their applications. Limitations such as year of graduation and maximum failed STEP (United States Medical Licensing Examination) attempts are typically evaluated as part of the application review process.