Taos Orthopaedic Institute and Research Foundation Program

The Taos Orthopaedic Institute Sports Medicine Fellowship Program at the Taos Orthopaedic Institute is a unique opportunity for newly graduated physicians seeking to enhance their skills in orthopaedic sports medicine. The program offers three annual fellowship positions with a focus on clinical training and research involving the shoulder, hip, and knee, specifically related to athletes and active individuals.1

Clinical and Surgical Training

Fellows will participate in a high-volume orthopaedic practice that conducts approximately 1200 surgical procedures annually. This provides a robust hands-on experience that directly benefits patient care. Additionally, fellows serve as orthopaedic consultants for the New Mexico Highlands University athletics department, an NCAA Division II program. Fellows also gain experience consulting for over 10 high schools across New Mexico and ski patrol at several local ski resorts.1

A distinctive aspect of the fellowship is the opportunity to travel with the United States Ski and Snowboard Team, providing medical support to elite athletes on international platforms.

Program Goals

The Taos Orthopaedic Institute has set several explicit goals for its fellowship program:

• Development of Clinical and Surgical Skills: Graduates are expected to be proficient in evaluating injured athletes and performing both open and arthroscopic procedures confidently after completion of the fellowship.
• Leadership Development: The fellowship incorporates a dynamic curriculum aimed at fostering leadership skills and emotional intelligence in both medical and business contexts.
• Encouragement of Scholarly Activity: Involvement in research projects is not just encouraged; completing a research project is required to promote academic rigor and inquiry within sports medicine contexts.

Moreover, the program is committed to teaching fellows about the business aspects of medicine, preparing them for the realities of running a practice.1

Visa Sponsorship and Requirements

The fellowship program is open to international medical graduates (IMGs), and it provides visa support for those applying under J-1 or H-1B visa categories. This makes the Taos Orthopaedic Institute particularly attractive for candidates seeking to gain fellowship experience while securing residency in the U.S.

Candidates ideally should not have a significant number of failed STEP exams; excessive failed attempts may be a concern during the application process. Moreover, applying physicians must have graduated within a specified time frame, typically within the last five years, to remain competitive in the selection process. The fellowship can be considered competitive, but it has been noted as friendly to DOs.1

Fellowship Experience and Location

Fellows at the Taos Orthopaedic Institute benefit not only from a comprehensive clinical experience but also from an outstanding quality of life in Taos, New Mexico. This region is recognized for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a variety of recreational opportunities such as skiing, hiking, and golfing, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.1

Facilities and Rotations

The Taos Orthopaedic Institute operates multiple clinic locations throughout New Mexico, including in Taos, Santa Fe, and Los Alamos. This allows fellows to gain exposure to various patient demographics and pathology types, enhancing their training experience.1

Research Opportunities

The fellowship includes a concentrated effort on scholarly work, pushing fellows to engage in research projects that contribute to the field of sports medicine. It aims to produce not only skilled clinicians but also medical researchers who will advance the standards of patient care in orthopaedics.1

Current and Past Fellows

The program has produced a strong network of past fellows who continue to excel in their respective practices, maintaining connections that often lead to job opportunities. Current fellows are known for their backgrounds steeped in athletics and outdoor pursuits, reflecting the mission of the program in supporting active lifestyles for both physicians and patients.1

Conclusion

Overall, the Taos Orthopaedic Institute Sports Medicine Fellowship is a comprehensive program that merges rigorous clinical and surgical training with unique opportunities for personal and professional development in a picturesque location.