Prisma Health/University of South Carolina SOM Greenville (Greenville) Program

Overview of the Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program

The Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital is a five-year, fully accredited training program dedicated to fostering life-long excellence in orthopedic surgery. The program collaborates closely with the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, enriching the educational experience through robust resources and faculty expertise in various orthopedic subspecialties

Curricular Structure

The curriculum encompasses a comprehensive training approach that includes clinical practice, surgical education, and research opportunities. Residents gain exposure to all essential areas of orthopedic surgery, such as pediatric orthopedics, orthopedic trauma, sports medicine, and spine surgery. Regular conferences cover basic sciences, clinical subjects, subspecialty areas, and ethics, with the majority of lectures delivered by attending faculty members.

A distinctive aspect of the residency is its focus on developing critical relationships with patients through resident-run clinics, which offer a unique hands-on experience. This structured independence is crucial in cultivating decision-making skills and rapport with patients, which are fundamental in the field of orthopedics

Research and Academic Development

The program emphasizes scholarly activities, requiring residents to participate in research projects under faculty mentorship. Each resident must complete at least one research project, write a study protocol, present findings at scientific meetings, and submit abstract manuscripts for publication. Research experiences range from clinical studies to biomechanical and cadaveric investigations, underscoring the program's commitment to advancing orthopedic science

Moreover, the residency incorporates a professional development curriculum that addresses both clinical skills and personal enhancement, promoting a well-rounded physician approach conducive to work-life balance

Training Components and Rotations

The residency's structure allows residents to immerse themselves fully in various orthopedic sub-specialties, including:

• Foot and Ankle Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Spine Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Adult Reconstruction
• Orthopedic Trauma Surgery
• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Orthopedic Oncology

Residents experience a balanced distribution of clinical and surgical training, with incremental responsibility over the course of the residency years. This approach enhances skill acquisition and confidence in surgical procedures

Competitiveness and Application Process

The residency program is highly competitive, with a strong preference for U.S. citizens or individuals with a permanent visa. Applicants are expected to participate in the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) and submit their applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program begins reviewing applications in October, with interviews for rotating students conducted during their clinical rotations in Greenville.

Notably, the program maintains a welcoming stance towards DOs and IMGs, reflecting a commitment to diverse backgrounds among its residents

Visa Support

Prisma Health supports visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates, primarily focusing on J-1 and H-1B visa categories. This enables the program to draw talent from a global pool, fostering diverse perspectives in the educational environment.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One defining feature of the Greenville residency is the supportive community that cultivates lasting relationships among residents and faculty, which many current residents describe as akin to family. The collaborative atmosphere extends outside the hospital, with numerous social activities and group bonding experiences available. Additionally, the program's commitment to wellness translates into initiatives designed to promote a healthy work-life balance for residents, ensuring they cultivate personal resilience alongside professional development

Training Sites

The program offers a variety of training facilities, including major orthopedic centers where residents can engage with a diverse patient population, gaining extensive experience with complex cases. Training occurs primarily at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital, providing access to state-of-the-art surgical suites and outpatient clinics focused on musculoskeletal care.

Educational Contributions

The residency program has a strong educational foundation supported by a faculty composed of fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons. Faculty expertise extends across numerous sub-specialties, providing residents with access to a wide array of knowledge and mentorship.