Naval Medical Center (Portsmouth) Program

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is a five-year accredited residency program recognized by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program is situated in Portsmouth, Virginia, and encompasses a total approved resident complement of 20, with five residents accepted per year.

The overarching mission of the program is to train worldwide deployable orthopaedic surgeons who are skilled in providing comprehensive operative and non-operative musculoskeletal care. The program emphasizes the development of both clinical and technical skills, as well as ethical standards of practice, nurturing compassionate healthcare professionals ready for military service 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum combines rigorous academic training with clinical experience. Morning reports and journal clubs foster an environment of continuous learning. Structured conferences help residents stay abreast of new developments in orthopaedics:

• Morning Report: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:15 to 7:45 a.m.
• Journal Club: Every Tuesday from 7 to 8 a.m.
• Grand Rounds: Thursday mornings from 7:15 to 7:45 a.m.
• Morbidity and Mortality Conference: First Friday of each month at 7 a.m.

Additionally, residents engage in protected academic time every Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The program structure does not incorporate elective rotations, allowing for focused training in orthopaedic surgery.

Clinical Training

During residency, trainees participate in various aspects of clinical care predominantly through direct rotations at the Naval Medical Center and affiliated institutions such as Florida Orthopedic Institute and New England Baptist Hospital 1. Each rotation is structured to ensure continuous and comprehensive exposure to orthopaedic principles and surgical techniques. Graduates will be capable of handling trauma, reconstructive surgeries, and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Professional Development and Research Opportunities

The program offers a range of professional development opportunities, including access to specialized courses such as:

• AO Trauma Basic and Advanced Principles Courses
• Microvascular Surgery Course (PGY-4)
• Enneking Orthopaedic Oncology Course (PGY-4)

While a dedicated research year is not part of the program, residents are guaranteed 60 days of protected research time during their training, allowing them to develop and submit research protocols under the guidance of a Research Director 1. This promotes the development of a research-based mindset, and many residents aim to exceed manuscript publishing requirements.

Teaching and Mentorship

The program prides itself on excellent faculty mentorship, where residents are assigned mentors who meet quarterly. Additionally, opportunities exist for residents to take on teaching roles within the program and cultivate leadership skills crucial for their future careers 1.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program is open to U.S. citizens as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). The program supports H-1B visas for eligible applicants, allowing for the necessary immigration assistance 1. The competitiveness of this program is noteworthy; it seeks candidates who demonstrate a commitment to military service and comprehensive preparation for orthopaedic practice.

Application Requirements

Applicants must meet specific requirements to be eligible for the program. Candidates should be a graduate from an accredited medical school, with the program often preferring those with strong academic records and performance on licensure exams. The program encourages applications from DOs and IMGs, although competitiveness may vary 1. Notable aspects also include a zero-tolerance policy towards applicants with more than one failed Step exam attempt.

Work-Life Balance and Well-Being Initiatives

The program places strong emphasis on resident well-being, hosting various morale and team-building activities, alongside department-sponsored events. Engagement in sporting events like minor league baseball and group activities is designed to ensure a supportive community among residents, fostering both professional and personal growth 1.