Stanford Health Care-Sponsored Stanford University Program
Location:
Redwood City, CASpecialty:
Hand surgery (Orthopaedic surgery)ACGME Code:
2630531054Overview of the Hand and Upper Limb Fellowship
The Hand and Upper Limb Fellowship at Stanford Health Care is a prestigious program designed to train board-eligible orthopaedic or plastic surgeons who are focused on the specialized study and treatment of the upper limb. This fellowship is hosted at the multidisciplinary Chase Hand & Upper Limb Center, where both orthopaedic and plastic surgeons collaborate, providing fellows with a broad exposure to diverse clinical cases affecting the hand, shoulder, and elbow.
1Fellows in the program are actively engaged in didactic education, helping to organize and lead weekly conferences, anatomy labs, and informal teaching sessions for residents. This involvement in education supplements the clinical training they receive in various surgeries.
1In addition to clinical practice, the fellowship emphasizes clinical research, offering fellows abundant opportunities to participate in both basic science and clinical research projects.
1Rotations and Training Sites
The fellowship begins on August 1st and incorporates rotations through several prominent medical facilities: Stanford University Medical Center, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, and the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System.
1The clinical training at Stanford University Medical Center focuses on adult disorders, including reconstructive surgeries, trauma care, and athletic injuries, while the Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital offers experience primarily in congenital hand anomalies and brachial plexus injuries. The VA Palo Alto Health Care System provides a unique perspective, particularly in reconstructive procedures for spinal cord injury patients.
1Application Process
The application process for the fellowship is competitive, accepting three fellows per year, which includes two orthopedic and one plastic surgeon. Interested candidates should complete the hand surgery application through the ASSH (American Society of Surgery of the Hand) website, which includes the following requirements:
- Three letters of recommendation
- A detailed curriculum vitae
- A personal statement
- A transcript from medical school
- Standardized test scores (USMLE or equivalent)
Applications for the program will be accepted starting September 18, 2024, with a deadline of November 15, 2024. Selected candidates will be invited for interviews on February 28, 2025.
1Research Opportunities
The fellowship program provides a robust environment for research, encouraging fellows to engage in research initiatives that contribute to the advancements in hand and upper limb surgery. Some projects are interconnected with local institutions, such as the unique collaboration with the Cantor Art Museum, which led to a project utilizing Rodin's hand sculptures for educational purposes in hand anatomy.
1Competitiveness and International Medical Graduates
The fellowship program at Stanford is recognized as highly competitive, attracting applicants from around the globe. The program is welcoming to international medical graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic physicians (DOs). There may be specific requirements regarding the year of graduation and a cap on the number of failed STEP exams allowed, emphasizing the program's commitment to maintaining high standards. Therefore, applicants should ensure they meet these criteria to strengthen their candidacy.
1Visa Sponsorship
The fellowship program provides visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. Common types of visas sponsored may include J-1 and H-1B visa categories, facilitating the entry of international fellows to train in the program.
1Alumni Network
Graduates of the Stanford Hand Surgery fellowship have pursued diverse career paths, including private practice, further academic fellowships, and roles in public health. The program maintains a strong alumni network that supports fellows in their post-training endeavors.
2To facilitate ongoing relationships, testimonials from alumni are shared to highlight their experiences and professional journeys post-fellowship.
2Current Fellow Information
Stanford's Hand Surgery Fellowship currently hosts multiple fellows engaged in various stages of their training. Regular updates on the fellows and their notable achievements provide insight into the fellowship experience.
3Institutional Commitment
The Robert A. Chase Hand & Upper Limb Center epitomizes innovative surgical education and research. Committed to advancing the field of hand surgery through rigorous education and state-of-the-art procedures, faculty and fellows engage in a collaborative approach, offering comprehensive care in upper limb surgery.
4Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$102,997First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Redwood City, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Redwood City, CA
Redwood City is a city located in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. Here is an overview of living in Redwood City:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Redwood City has a moderate crime rate compared to other cities in the Bay Area. It is generally considered safe, with the usual precautions recommended in larger urban areas.
- Fun Activities: Redwood City offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, parks, and nearby beaches. The city also has a vibrant downtown with restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
- Climate: Redwood City has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers. The average temperature ranges from 45°F to 75°F.
- Races and Population: Redwood City is diverse, with a population of various races and ethnicities. This diversity is reflected in the city's culture, events, and amenities.
- Education: Redwood City has quality schools and educational opportunities, making it an attractive location for families with children. There are also higher education institutions nearby.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Redwood City is high, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices are above the national average. However, salaries in the Bay Area tend to be higher to offset these costs.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Redwood City is located about 25 miles south of San Francisco and about 25 miles north of San Jose. Driving to either city can take around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences and employment opportunities.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Redwood City include its proximity to major cities, diverse population, and outdoor activities. Cons may include the high cost of living and traffic congestion during peak hours.
Interview Questions
