Integris Health Program

The Hand Surgery Fellowship Program at INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center is a one-year ACGME-accredited program that aims to provide comprehensive training in upper extremity surgical care. The fellowship is designed for two fellows per year, focusing on conditions and procedures related to the shoulder through to the fingertip, which provides a broad spectrum of experience in hand surgery.

The program features a diverse faculty, including experienced hand surgeons from backgrounds in orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, and general surgery. This allows fellows to gain a multifaceted perspective on hand surgery, enriching their training experience. The fellowship runs for 12 consecutive months from August 1 to July 31, with a structured schedule that includes extensive clinical exposure and educational opportunities.

Curriculum

The curriculum of the Hand Surgery Fellowship Program is multifaceted. It encompasses practical clinical training paired with didactic education. Fellows participate in:

• Fellowship-guided lectures tailored for faculty and other medical departments.
• Quarterly hands-on labs that provide opportunities to practice skills in a controlled environment.
• A monthly journal club that encourages critical analysis of current literature and introduces fellows to evidence-based practices in hand surgery.

This combination ensures that fellows not only refine their surgical skills but also develop their capacity for scholarly inquiry and professional development.

Clinical Rotations and Experiences

Fellows can expect to gain clinical experience across a wide range of areas in hand and upper extremity surgery, which includes but is not limited to:

• Management of acute trauma cases to the upper extremities.
• Replantation techniques for severed digits and limbs.
• Shoulder arthroplasty and arthroscopy procedures.
• Complex elbow reconstruction and soft tissue surgical interventions.
• General elective hand surgeries that address various conditions.

The clinical training is designed to foster independence and competence in various hand surgery techniques, preparing fellows for autonomous practice in their future careers.

Research Opportunities

The program is committed to promoting research among fellows, encouraging participation in clinical studies and innovative projects. This emphasis on research complements the clinical education and allows fellows to contribute to the advancement of hand surgery knowledge and practice.

Living in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City provides a supportive and vibrant community for medical training. The city's cost of living is low compared to many urban areas, and it features a growing cultural scene that includes dining, entertainment, and outdoor activities. This makes it an appealing place to live for fellows during their time at INTEGRIS Health.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Hand Surgery Fellowship Program at INTEGRIS Health is competitive, welcoming both DO and IMG candidates. Prospective fellows should prepare for a rigorous selection process. While specific requirements may vary, applicants are generally expected to have graduated from medical school within a certain timeframe, and there may be restrictions on the number of failed STEP exams considered qualifying for application.

Visa Support

INTEGRIS Health supports international applicants and is able to sponsor specific visa types for fellows. Typically, the program is able to sponsor J-1 visas for international medical graduates, making it accessible for those who require visa assistance as part of their application process.