UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
Orthopaedic surgeryACGME Code:
2602421170NRMP Program Code:
3050260C0, 3050260C1Overview of the UMass Chan Medical School Orthopaedic Surgery Program
The Orthopaedic Surgery residency program at UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester offers a comprehensive training experience designed for residents to develop clinical and surgical expertise in orthopaedics. The program is an integral part of the thriving Department of Orthopedics and Physical Rehabilitation, which emphasizes high-quality clinical care, innovative research, and a robust educational environment for residents and fellows.
As a center of excellence, the program ensures a diverse range of experiences through various rotations and specialized departments. UMass Chan Medical School is affiliated with UMass Memorial Health, which serves as a regional hub for trauma and orthopedic care.
Curriculum Structure
The program follows a structured curriculum that balances clinical duties, surgical exposure, and academic learning. Core rotations cover essential aspects of orthopaedic surgery, including:
- Trauma Surgery
- Joint Replacement Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Spine Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopaedics
- Hand Surgery
Residents are exposed to a variety of surgical cases, allowing them to gain hands-on experience across multiple disciplines within orthopaedics. The program emphasizes didactic learning through weekly lecture series that cover relevant topics in orthopaedics and involve inter-professional collaboration.
Research Opportunities
The UMass Chan program places a strong emphasis on research, providing residents with numerous opportunities to engage in clinical, translational, and basic science research. The Department has received significant funding for projects aimed at improving patient care and outcomes, such as the statewide FORCE-TJR initiative, which collects and analyzes data from joint replacement surgeries to inform treatment practices and healthcare policy 4.
Residents are encouraged to contribute to ongoing research projects and may even have the opportunity to develop their own research initiatives. Faculty support is readily available through collaboration and mentorship, ensuring residents gain valuable research experience during their training.
Training Sites and Facilities
Residency training takes place at multiple UMass Memorial Health facilities, including:
- UMass Memorial Medical Center, which is the busiest Level I trauma center in Massachusetts.
- The Arthritis and Joint Replacement Center, providing specialized care in joint procedures.
- The Comprehensive Sports Medicine Center, treating both professional and amateur athletes.
These facilities offer residents exposure to a wide variety of cases, from straightforward to complex, ensuring a well-rounded training experience.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The UMass Chan Orthopaedic Surgery residency program is known for being competitive; applicants are typically required to demonstrate strong academic performance and clinical skills. The program is open to graduates from both MD and DO backgrounds, as well as International Medical Graduates (IMGs), making it inclusive. However, specific application requirements may include limits on the number of failed Step exams and the maximum year of graduation 1.
Fellowship Opportunities
The residency program also offers access to advanced fellowship trainings in subspecialties such as:
- Hand Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Spine Surgery
- Physiatry
These fellowships aim to create further development of specialized skills beyond the residency training.
Visa Support
UMass Chan Medical School offers visa sponsorship for international applicants, primarily through J-1 and H-1B visa types. This support is designed to facilitate the training of qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds, contributing to the program's commitment to inclusivity.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The UMass Chan Orthopaedic Surgery residency program distinguishes itself through:
- A proven track record in clinical care and the management of complex cases.
- The integration of advanced technological tools in surgical practice and research efforts.
- A strong community focus, offering outreach programs that enhance healthcare access and education in orthopaedic care.
Residents are also encouraged to participate in community service events and educational initiatives, further enhancing their overall training experience.
Acknowledgments and Achievements
The Department of Orthopedics at UMass Chan has received commendations for research contributions, including significant NIH funding, that place it among leading medical institutions 2. Residents can take pride in being part of a program that is consistently recognized for excellence in both education and patient care. Overall, the UMass Chan Orthopaedic Surgery residency program offers a comprehensive, rigorous training environment that prepares residents for successful careers in orthopaedics.
Website
Director
Nicola A DeAngelis, MDProgram Director Appointed Since July 2019Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,940First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
15 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
100%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.9XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
3050260C0
2024
4 of 42023
4 of 42022
4 of 42021
4 of 42020
4 of 43050260C1
2024
1 of 12023
1 of 12022
1 of 12021
1 of 12020
1 of 1Location
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
