University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix Program

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix represents a commitment to excellence in resident education and patient care, reflecting a rich tradition in orthopaedic training. The program is designed to cultivate skilled orthopaedic surgeons through a comprehensive curriculum and varied clinical experiences.

Training Sites

Residents predominantly train at several prestigious institutions, most notably at Banner University Medical Center – Phoenix, which is recognized as a level one trauma center. This facility ensures that residents are exposed to a high volume of complex cases and diverse patient demographics, essential for comprehensive orthopaedic training. Additional training occurs at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, which specializes in pediatric care, and Banner Desert Medical Center, known for its advanced care and family-focused approach. The CORE Institute Specialty Hospital exclusively focuses on orthopaedic care, offering residents the latest technologies and techniques in orthopaedic surgery 1.

Curriculum

The residency curriculum encompasses a range of orthopaedic subspecialties, ensuring robust training through a mix of team-based and apprenticeship models. Didactic sessions are an integral part of the educational experience, held weekly and designed to reinforce clinical knowledge across various facets of orthopaedics, including anatomy and clinical skills. These sessions include resident-led presentations and faculty guest lectures, further enriching the educational environment. The core curriculum is complemented with specialty-specific conferences that facilitate deeper dives into particular areas of interest within orthopaedics 3.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pillar of the training provided by the program, with residents expected to engage in substantial scholarly activities. Each resident is encouraged to produce at least one publishable quality research project annually, utilizing resources from the resident research laboratory and participating in annual resident research symposiums. The program fosters a culture of inquiry and innovation, preparing residents for academic and clinical excellence 5.

Program Structure

The residency program is structured to provide a balanced progression of clinical responsibilities and learning opportunities. With protected didactic time, mentorship from experienced faculty, and rotations that span all areas of orthopaedics—including trauma, reconstruction, and pediatric orthopaedics—residents achieve a well-rounded skill set before graduation. The program is well-known for its commitment to teamwork and collaboration among residents and faculty, creating an encouraging atmosphere conducive to learning and professional growth 6.

Application Requirements

Application to this competitive residency program is through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Prospective applicants must have graduated from medical school within the last two years and are required to submit the dean’s letter, personal statement, and two to four letters of recommendation. Applicants are also encouraged to reflect on their career interests and research aspirations in their personal statements 2. The program prides itself on being open to diverse candidates, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds, fostering a rich learning environment.

Visa Support

The program provides visa support for qualified international applicants, typically sponsoring J-1 visas, facilitating entry into the United States for residency training.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Orthopaedic Residency at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix is characterized by its emphasis on a supportive learning environment and resident involvement in various professional activities. Regular social events to build camaraderie, such as monthly dinners and an annual graduation celebration, enhance the residents' personal experience throughout their training 4. Furthermore, with a focus on both clinical expertise and research innovation, the program prepares its graduates for success in their future careers, whether in fellowships or direct practice.