Riverside University Health System Program

Program Overview

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at Riverside University Health System (RUHS) aims to equip residents with the necessary knowledge, skills, and ethical foundations required to excel as competent orthopaedic surgeons. The program is committed to high standards of patient care, emphasizing community service and professional integrity 1.

Admission Requirements

The selection of prospective residents is based on various criteria including academic records, passed boards (COMLEX Part 1 and 2), research experience, and strong letters of recommendation from practicing orthopaedic surgeons. Prospective residents are strongly encouraged to complete an audition rotation, which provides insight into the program's environment and educational philosophy 8.

Curriculum Structure

The residency program comprises five years, with each year designed to progressively build resident competencies. The first year (PGY-1) primarily focuses on establishing foundational medical knowledge and skills through rotations in various surgical and medical specialties including Vascular Surgery, Anesthesia, and Internal Medicine. As residents advance to PGY-2 and PGY-3, they gain more clinical exposure and begin to participate actively in operative cases, progressing towards more complex surgical procedures by the time they reach the senior years (PGY-4 and PGY-5) 11.

Throughout the residency, residents engage in a comprehensive didactic curriculum that includes clinical teaching rounds, grand rounds, and self-assessment exams. Instructional methods ensure that residents are not just passive learners but active participants in their education, fostering a culture of self-directed learning and continuous improvement 11.

Rotational Experiences

The program features a diverse set of rotations encompassing various subspecialties within orthopaedic surgery including Total Joints and Reconstruction, Sports Medicine, Hand and Upper Extremity, Trauma, Pediatric Orthopaedics, and Spine. In addition to in-house rotations, residents participate in external rotations at institutions such as the Children’s Hospital of Orange County and Kaiser Riverside, providing a broad and enriched clinical exposure 1.

Research Opportunities

Residents are expected to engage in research activities throughout their training, with requirements to submit scientific papers annually, excluding the first year. The program encourages multi-year research projects to foster a deeper understanding of scientific inquiry within orthopaedics. Feedback sessions with the Program Director help residents refine their research skills and ensure the quality of their work meets publication standards 12.

Visa Support

The program provides support for international medical graduates (IMGs) and is likely to sponsor visas (such as J-1 or H-1B visas) for accepted candidates depending on their eligibility and requirements 1.

Benefits and Salary

As of July 1, 2024, the salary structure for residents in the program is as follows:

• PGY-1: $70,962
• PGY-2: $73,311
• PGY-3: $76,193
• PGY-4: $79,200
• PGY-5: $82,441

In addition to competitive salaries, residents receive comprehensive health and dental insurance, disability and life insurance, vacation time, and meal allowances when on call 9.

Unique Aspects of the Program

RUHS is distinct not only as a leading teaching facility but also as a safety net hospital prioritizing care for underserved populations in Riverside County. As a designated Level 1 ACS Trauma Center and a regional Pediatric Trauma Center, residents are exposed to a high volume and diversity of cases, enriching their training experience significantly 1.

Competitiveness

The program is competitive, valuing diversity and commitment to serving underserved communities. Applicants from a variety of educational backgrounds are welcomed, particularly those who have demonstrated a strong commitment to community service and orthopaedic care 8. A strong foundation in communication skills and personal integrity are especially emphasized.