Univ of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences Program

The University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences offers a comprehensive Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program, designed to produce proficient and well-rounded orthopedic surgeons. The program, created through a partnership with Sanford Health, incorporates a strong commitment to education and patient care, preparing its residents for diverse challenges in the field.

Program Overview

The Orthopedic Surgery Residency is structured as a five-year program, with the first four years dedicated mainly to orthopedic rotations. Residents will spend approximately three years in Fargo, North Dakota, and one year in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, allowing them to gain a broad range of experiences in both academic and community settings. The final year offers flexibility, enabling residents to select their preferred site to hone their skills further. Throughout the program, residents will engage in various orthopedic treatments and procedures, including adult reconstruction, orthopedic trauma, spine, hand, foot and ankle, sports injury care, oncology, and amputations 1.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, where residents gain early operative experiences and participate in daily educational activities, including lectures, case presentations, and surgical techniques. The program supports continuing education through a didactic calendar and offers a structured block schedule that residents can utilize to manage their learning effectively 2.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pivotal aspect of the program, with residents required to complete at least one publishable project during their training. Each resident receives tailored support for research endeavors, providing them with the necessary resources to develop and execute high-quality research. The program emphasizes the importance of research in improving orthopedic care and includes facilities like the Sanford Orthopedic Biomechanics and Engineering Laboratory 5.

Training Sites

The residency program utilizes two primary training sites: Sanford Medical Center in Fargo and Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls. This geographical diversity allows residents to experience healthcare provision in metropolitan hospitals and the surrounding rural regions. Fargo, known for its vibrancy and growth, along with Sioux Falls, offers a supportive community centered around educational and professional growth 7.

Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements

The UND Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program accepts applicants from various backgrounds, including international medical graduates. The program sponsors ECFMG-approved J1 visas. However, it is essential that all applicants have completed and passed USMLE Step 1 prior to the application deadline. Notably, prior completion of both Step 2 CK and CS is also required for ranking; electronic applications are encouraged from September 15 to November 1 of each year. Candidates must also provide a medical school transcript, a CV, letters of recommendation, and comply with ECFMG certification if they are graduates of non-U.S. medical schools 8.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

The program is categorized as competitive; it receives numerous applications but admits only three residents annually. Applications are evaluated based on several criteria, including medical school performance, USMLE/COMLEX scores, and the strength of recommendation letters. An emphasis is placed on personal statements that showcase a candidate’s commitment to the field of orthopedics and alignment with the program's values 9.

Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty consists of experienced orthopedic surgeons dedicated to educating and mentoring residents, fostering an environment that promotes both academic and professional growth. Mentorship is highlighted as a key component of the program, with one-on-one training ensuring residents receive personalized guidance throughout their surgical training. The program encourages residents to take on leadership roles and engage with the community 4.

Community and Lifestyle

Living in Fargo and Sioux Falls presents residents with diverse amenities, including cultural events, outdoor activities, dining, and entertainment options. The program recognizes the importance of a supportive community and a balanced lifestyle, offering opportunities for integration within local sports and recreational programs, aiding in enriching the residency experience 6.