University of Colorado Program
Location:
Aurora, COSpecialty:
Pediatric orthopaedicsACGME Code:
2650721048Program Overview
The Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Fellowship at the University of Colorado, located at Children's Hospital Colorado, provides an expansive and hands-on experience in the field of pediatric orthopedics. This fellowship is integrated within a state-of-the-art facility that witnesses a broad spectrum and high volume of pediatric patients annually. The program covers a comprehensive array of pediatric orthopedic disorders, including clubfeet, hip dysplasia, scoliosis, kyphosis, congenital spine deformities, lower extremity deformities, fractures, orthopedic trauma, orthopedic oncology, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, and sports medicine patients. The program is distinct in its commitment to maximizing education and patient care.
1Clinical Experience and Rotations
Its clinical practice is robust, handling over 60,000 outpatient visits and conducting approximately 4,000 surgical procedures each year. Trainees will have the opportunity for tailored experiences based on their individual needs. The fellowship's structure allows for flexibility, enabling fellows to engage in elective rotations during the last three months of the program, fostering an individualized approach to training.
1Educational Framework
The educational curriculum is designed to meet the diverse needs of trainees, featuring practical exposure to a large clinical volume. Daily didactic conferences—including pre-operative, post-operative, and fracture-specific discussions—foster a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology of various pediatric orthopedic conditions.
1Research Opportunities
Research is emphasized within the fellowship, supported by the Musculoskeletal Research Center. Each fellow is allocated three dedicated weeks for research pursuits during the program. The aim is for fellows to complete a project suitable for publication in a pediatric orthopedic journal, thus facilitating engagement in basic science, outcomes research, and clinical trials. Fellows have full access to facilities such as the Center for Gait and Motion Analysis and a Biomechanics Laboratory.
1Benefits and Support
Fellows at Children's Hospital Colorado receive a stipend consistent with the PGY-6 salary levels set by the University of Colorado Medical School. In addition to the salary, they are provided with malpractice insurance, health insurance for themselves and dependents, and 21 days of vacation. Furthermore, the program supports fellows in attending one continuing education course or an academic related course during their fellowship tenure.
1Application Requirements
Applicants to the Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Fellowship must have completed an accredited residency program in Orthopedic Surgery and must be licensed to practice in the state of Colorado, holding a current DEA license. Additionally, applicants must submit a Central Application Service (CAS) application, medical school transcripts, USMLE transcripts, three letters of reference, and a Dean's letter. For international medical graduates (IMGs), a valid ECFMG certificate is required alongside meeting additional documentation for training at the University.
1Competitiveness
The fellowship program is competitive due to its well-established reputation and comprehensive training offered. Applicants are often expected to possess strong credentials and demonstrate a keen commitment to pursuing a career in pediatric orthopedic surgery. The program is friendly towards graduates from both DO and IMG backgrounds, provided they meet the specified application requirements.
1Visa Sponsorship
The Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Fellowship program will sponsor visas for eligible applicants, primarily focusing on J-1 visas for international medical graduates. All candidates must ensure compliance with visa regulations and maintain the legal status required to train at the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine.
1Training Sites
The fellowship offers clinical training at Children’s Hospital Colorado, which is recognized as a busy Level 1 trauma center and the only one serving the Rocky Mountain region. In addition to the main campus, fellows are exposed to clinical practice at seven satellite sites within the Denver Metropolitan area, providing insight into various operational aspects and educational dynamics across a broad spectrum of healthcare settings.
1Website
- 1 .Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Fellowship
- 2 .Adult Reconstruction Fellowship | School of Medicine | Department of Orthopedic
- 3 .Foot and Ankle Surgery Fellowship |CU Orthopedics|School of Medicine
- 4 .Hand Surgery Fellowship
- 5 .Shoulder and Elbow Fellowship | School of Medicine | Department of Orthopedic
- 6 .Spinal Surgery (Clinical) Fellowship
Director
Mark A Erickson, MDProgram Director, Dept of Pediatric Orthopaedics Appointed Since April 2009Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$94,717First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
6.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Aurora, CO
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Aurora, CO
- Crime Rate and Safety: Aurora has a mix of safe neighborhoods and areas with higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before moving. Overall, the city has a moderate crime rate.
- Fun Activities: Aurora offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and parks. The city also has cultural attractions, shopping centers, and dining options.
- Climate: Aurora experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters and warm summers. Snow is common in the winter, while summers are sunny and warm.
- Races and Population: The population in Aurora is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.
- Education: Aurora is home to the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, providing opportunities for educational and research collaborations.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Aurora is slightly above the national average, with housing being one of the significant expenses.
- Nearby Cities: Denver is approximately a 30-minute drive from Aurora and offers a more extensive range of entertainment, cultural attractions, and employment opportunities.
Interview Questions
