Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Orthopaedic Residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a five-year, ACGME-accredited program that accepts five residents annually. Located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, this institution features a modern facility with over 625 beds and serves a diverse population across a large catchment area, encompassing both urban and rural regions.

This residency encompasses a broad range of clinical experiences across various subspecialties of orthopaedic surgery, allowing residents to manage conditions that range from routine to complex. The training includes eight clinical services, with residency pairs that foster mentoring and collaboration within a supportive learning environment. The educational structure emphasizes teaching, and residents gain exposure to emergency and inpatient consultations that simulate contemporary clinical challenges.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is designed to meet the educational requirements established by The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS). In the first year (PGY-1), rotations focus on surgical fundamentals and include experiences in multisystem trauma, plastic surgery, critical care, and various medical specialties. The subsequent years (PGY-2 to PGY-5) expand the residents' exposure to all facets of orthopaedics, including trauma, sports medicine, pediatric orthopaedics, and oncologic orthopaedics. Each year includes rotations tailored to develop proficiency in specific areas essential for a well-rounded orthopaedic surgeon.

The program emphasizes a structured approach that integrates clinical practice with an extensive reading curriculum. Residents participate in regular conferences that cover grand rounds, subspecialty topics, and a strong basic science curriculum to foster comprehensive learning.1

Research Opportunities

The Orthopaedic Residency provides residents access to the Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, where they can engage in interdisciplinary research. The laboratory's focus includes in vivo models and biomechanics, alongside molecular biology and cell biology studies. Each resident is required to participate in an investigative project, developing skills in scientific inquiry and critical analysis of the orthopaedic literature, which is essential for a career in academic medicine or specialized practice.

Application Process

Applicants to the Orthopaedic Residency are encouraged to apply through the Electronic Residency Application Services (ERAS). The program is highly competitive, receiving over 900 applications each year. Applicants must provide requisite documents such as USMLE scores, a personal statement, letters of recommendation (including at least one from an orthopaedic physician), and their medical school transcript. The program values a comprehensive application that highlights the candidate's potential for a successful career in orthopaedic surgery.1

Unique Aspects

The residency program at Penn State Hershey is distinguished by its commitment to fostering wellness among its residents, offering resources focused on mental health, work-life balance, and community engagement. Programs such as the Partners in Medicine group provide social networking opportunities and support for significant others of residents, easing the transition into the Hershey area.

Visa Support

The Orthopaedic Residency program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs), including J-1 and H-1B visa types. This support is crucial for attracting a diverse pool of applicants who contribute to the program's rich educational and cultural environment.

Competitiveness

The program is recognized as being highly competitive, making it essential for applicants to present a strong academic background and relevant clinical experiences. Factors such as demonstrated leadership, involvement in research, and unique personal attributes significantly influence the selection process. The residency is also considered friendly towards DO applicants and IMGs, contributing to a diverse training cohort.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine have established offices dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to cultivate a respectful learning environment for all. Initiatives aimed at promoting cultural competence and addressing various barriers to inclusion within the medical community are integral to the residency experience.

Overall, the Orthopaedic Residency at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offers a robust educational experience rooted in clinical excellence, research opportunities, and a supportive environment for developing future orthopaedic leaders.2