UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
Orthopaedic sports medicineACGME Code:
2682431047The UMass Chan Medical School Program in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine located in Worcester offers a comprehensive, one-year fellowship that combines rigorous clinical training with academic advancement, aimed at developing skilled practitioners in the field of sports medicine.
Program Overview
The Sports Medicine Fellowship at UMass Chan is designed to provide fellows with a robust clinical and educational experience focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries related to sports and exercise. With two spots available per year, the fellowship ensures individualized attention and mentorship for each participant. Fellows have the opportunity to engage directly in patient care, surgical procedures, and specialized training sessions throughout the program.
3Curriculum and Training
The fellowship curriculum is structured to enhance the fellow's clinical skills through hands-on experience and extensive learning opportunities. Key components include:
Clinical Problem Solving
Fellows participate in clinic days with sports medicine staff and run their own fellowship clinic. They will also engage in evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment both onsite and in training room settings, alongside experienced attending physicians. Game coverage involves working with local high school, college teams, as well as professional hockey and baseball teams, providing a diverse array of practical experiences.
8Psychomotor Surgical Skill Development
This aspect focuses on developing technical skills necessary for surgical procedures in sports medicine. Fellows will have the opportunity to assist with 2-3 days of surgeries per week under the guidance of attending surgeons and will participate in anatomy labs and specialized skills workshops, refining their competencies in both open and arthroscopic techniques.
7Research Opportunities
The fellowship places a strong emphasis on research, encouraging fellows to engage in clinical research projects. The program's connection to the FORCE-TJR initiative, which collects data on joint replacement surgery, allows fellows to participate in high-level research efforts and access funding opportunities. Fellows can collaborate on projects that analyze treatment effectiveness, patient outcomes, and innovative surgical techniques.
10Training Sites
Fellows train at UMass Memorial Health, recognized as a regional leader in orthopedics providing general and specialized services. This includes access to a Level I Trauma Center and comprehensive sports medicine services targeting both amateur and professional athletes.
2Unique Aspects of the Program
One distinctive feature of the UMass Chan Sports Medicine Fellowship is the emphasis on comprehensive learning that extends beyond surgical training. The fellowship includes an innovative “Preparation for Practice” curriculum, covering essential topics such as contract negotiation, medical malpractice, coding and billing, as well as personal finance management. This approach is designed to prepare fellows for the multifaceted demands of a career in sports medicine.
9Visa Support and Sponsorship
The program provides visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs) and can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas. This allows eligible candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and pursue a fellowship experience within the UMass Chan Medical School.
4Application Requirements and Competitiveness
The fellowship program is highly competitive, favoring candidates with a strong medical background and experience in orthopedic surgery or sports medicine. Special application requirements include completion of an ACGME-accredited residency program and documentation of strong clinical skills. Additionally, candidates are typically expected to have graduated within a few years prior to application, and there may be limitations on the number of times a candidate has failed an exam such as the STEP exams.
6Research and Growth
UMass Chan Medical School has a robust research environment, with over $35 million in funding supporting various projects. The orthopedic department's focus on clinical and translational research ensures that fellows are involved in pioneering studies which shape future medical practices and treatment protocols in orthopedic and sports medicine fields.
5Furthermore, the department continuously seeks to expand its clinical offerings and specialty care avenues, creating a dynamic environment ideal for fellows who aspire to contribute to advancements in orthopedic care.
1Website
Director
Brian Busconi, MDDirector Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship Program Appointed Since September 2001Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$87,113First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Worcester, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA is a diverse city with a lot to offer for residents. Here is an overview of what living in Worcester is like:
Crime Rate and Safety:
Worcester has a mid-range crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. While certain areas may have higher crime rates, overall the city is considered safe to live in.
Fun Activities:
Worcester offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. There are also numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city has a vibrant food scene with diverse dining options.
Climate:
Worcester has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Races and Population:
Worcester is a diverse city with a population of approximately 208,000 residents. The city has a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Education:
Worcester is home to several higher education institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clark University. The city also has a strong public school system for residents with children.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Worcester is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood, but overall, Worcester offers a more affordable living situation compared to nearby Boston.
Proximity to Bigger Cities:
Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, which is about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic. Boston offers additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents looking to explore a bigger city.
Pros and Cons:
One of the pros of living in Worcester is its diverse community and cultural attractions. However, one potential con could be the traffic congestion during peak times, especially when commuting to Boston.
Interview Questions
