Medical College of Georgia Program

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University offers a comprehensive five-year training program approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This residency fulfills all necessary criteria for graduates to sit for Part I of the board examination given by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.

Founded in 1828, the Medical College of Georgia has a long-standing history of training orthopaedic residents since 1945. This deep-rooted tradition emphasizes the importance of education and mentorship, making it an essential part of the residency experience. Residents benefit from a rich history that combines academic strength with clinical excellence in orthopaedic care.

The program excels through opportunities for subspecialty exposure thanks to its fellowship-trained faculty who provide training across all aspects of orthopaedic surgery. Residents work in a collegial environment, where teamwork and camaraderie are cultivated. This supportive atmosphere is a hallmark of the residency, with residents and faculty constantly striving for professional growth.

Curriculum Structure and Rotations

The residency curriculum is designed to ensure that residents gain substantial experience in various orthopaedic procedures and patient care. Rotations are conducted at multiple Augusta University Health facilities that serve a diverse patient population. Key facilities include:

• Augusta University Medical Center: This teaching hospital has a capacity of 478 beds and serves as a 13-county regional Level 1 trauma center, providing residents with exposure to complex trauma cases and subspecialty rotations.
• Children’s Hospital of Georgia: Connected to the Augusta University Medical Center, this facility has 154 beds and provides residents with invaluable experience in pediatric orthopaedics.
• Augusta University West Wheeler: An outpatient clinic that allows residents to engage in a wide range of orthopaedic services.
• Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center: A partner facility where residents complete rotations in adult general orthopaedics.
• Surgery Center of Columbia County: This multispecialty outpatient center offers an opportunity for residents to participate in outpatient procedures across various specialties.

Research Opportunities

Research is a prominent aspect of the residency program, supported by a robust faculty and institutional framework. As part of a large medical school, residents are given access to resources and research staff to facilitate high-quality clinical research. There’s a strong emphasis on translational research, with collaborations across various specialties, enhancing the learning experience.

The program provides departmental funding for residents to present their research at prestigious regional and national conferences. Additionally, residents benefit from partnerships with other programs across Augusta University and leading institutions nationwide, which enriches their research endeavors. These partnerships promote knowledge sharing and provide residents with essential tools for successful research projects.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process for the Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program is competitive, attracting applicants from diverse educational backgrounds including both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program is generally friendly towards DO and IMG applicants, creating an inclusive environment for all qualified candidates.

Applicants must meet specific requirements, including graduation from medical school within a certain time frame, and there may be limits on the number of times Step exams can be retaken before applying. These specifications are designed to ensure that all applicants possess the necessary foundational skills and knowledge for success in the program.

Visa Support

The residency program sponsors various visa types for international medical graduates (IMGs) who qualify for the program. The most common visa types include the J-1 Visa for exchange visitors and the H-1B Visa for specialty occupations. This support facilitates the inclusion of a diverse set of residents from around the globe, enriching the training environment.