University of Connecticut Program
Location:
Glastonbury, CTSpecialty:
Hand surgery (Orthopaedic surgery)ACGME Code:
2630821030The University of Connecticut Hand Surgery Fellowship is a one-year, ACGME-accredited program that is designed to provide advanced training in reconstructive hand surgery. This program is deeply rooted in the legacy of training leading hand surgeons for over 50 years and is committed to equipping fellows with a comprehensive skill set essential for their future clinical practice.
Core Faculty and Resources
The fellowship is led by fellowship-trained hand surgeons who are board-certified in both orthopedics and plastic surgery. The core faculty is complemented by additional instructors from the Department of Orthopedics and the Division of Plastic Surgery at Hartford Hospital. Together, they offer extensive experience in handling post-traumatic, degenerative, and congenital hand conditions, ensuring a well-rounded education for all fellows 1.
Curriculum and Training Opportunities
Fellows are afforded multiple opportunities to engage in hands-on learning, such as:
- Management of acute hand trauma, including replantation procedures.
- Participation in the weekly Hartford Hospital Hand Clinic, which allows for real-time patient evaluation and treatment planning.
- Involvement in monthly surgical simulation labs that enhance surgical skills.
- Training in microsurgery and flap techniques.
- Regular attendance at national and regional conferences to broaden knowledge in hand surgery.
- Weekly hand conferences and journal clubs to discuss contemporary issues and advancements in the field.
- Preparation assistance for the Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand.
- Dedicated research time to encourage fellows to contribute to the field actively.
With a variety of educational formats and settings, fellows gain diverse experiences crucial for mastering hand surgery 1.
Clinical Rotations and Sites
Fellows rotate through several high-quality training sites, each providing unique experiences:
- The Hand Center: This site emphasizes outpatient care, permitting fellows to work closely with faculty on new patient evaluations and treatment follow-ups.
- Glastonbury Surgery Center: This center provides exposure to outpatient surgeries and reinforces understanding of patient selection and postoperative care.
- Hartford Hospital: As a Level 1 trauma center, it offers significant experience in both inpatient and outpatient hand surgical care, including weekend on-call responsibilities.
- Connecticut Children's: This site focuses on pediatric hand conditions, offering insights into unique surgical pathologies among children.
These diverse clinical experiences are integral to building competence in various surgical techniques and patient management issues 8.
Application Information
Applicants to the fellowship must have completed a primary specialty training program in an accredited residency program in orthopedics, plastic surgery, or general surgery. The application process includes the following:
- Completion of the Universal Hand Application
- Submission of a curriculum vitae (CV) and personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- USMLE scores for Steps 1, 2, and 3
- A valid ECFMG Certificate, if applicable
The fellowship participates in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), and the application deadline is November 15th of the year prior to the start of the fellowship 2.
Visa Support
The University of Connecticut Hand Surgery Fellowship program accepts applications from U.S. citizens, residents, and J-1 visa holders. However, it does not sponsor H1B visas, which may be an important consideration for international medical graduates 2.
Program Diversity and Inclusion
The program actively promotes a diverse and inclusive educational environment, recognizing the importance of equity and inclusion in medical training. It encourages different perspectives and experiences among faculty and fellows alike, fostering an institutional culture that values each individual’s contributions 4.
Fellow Well-Being
Recognizing the demanding nature of medical training, the fellowship places a strong emphasis on the well-being of its fellows. Activities promoting work-life balance and mental health are regularly organized, including participatory sports and community social events. Furthermore, each fellow is allocated $2,000 for travel to conferences and access to counseling services, reflecting the program's commitment to comprehensive support systems 7.
Conclusion
The University of Connecticut Hand Surgery Fellowship is an intensive and enriching program that equips fellows with essential surgical skills, clinical judgment, and research capabilities necessary for a successful career in hand surgery.
Website
Director
Duffield Ashmead, MDProgram Director Appointed Since July 2012Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$82,176First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Glastonbury, CT
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Glastonbury, CT
- Crime Rate and Safety: Glastonbury is known for its relatively low crime rate, making it one of the safer towns in Connecticut. Community policing efforts contribute to a secure environment for residents.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy various recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and sports facilities. The town also hosts events like summer concerts, farmers' markets, and seasonal festivals.
- Climate: Glastonbury experiences a humid continental climate, which means four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with snowfall, while summers are warm and pleasant, making outdoor activities enjoyable throughout the year.
- Race and Population: Glastonbury has a diverse population, predominantly made up of Caucasian residents, with growing communities of Hispanic, Black, and Asian individuals. The population is around 35,000, providing a small-town feel with neighborhood cohesion.
- Education: The town is served by a well-regarded public school system, offering quality education from early childhood through high school. There are also nearby private school options and access to higher education institutions in nearby cities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Glastonbury is higher than the national average but is comparable to many other suburban areas in Connecticut. Housing can be costly, reflecting the desirable lifestyle and community amenities.
- Nearby Cities: Hartford, the state capital, is approximately a 20-minute drive from Glastonbury. Hartford offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and dining options. New Haven, about 40 minutes away, is also notable for its vibrant arts scene and home to Yale University.
Pros and Cons of Living in Glastonbury
- Pros:
- Safe and family-friendly environment
- Rich in recreational activities and community events
- Good quality of education
- Cons:
- Higher cost of living compared to national averages
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Depending on traffic, commuting to larger cities can be time-consuming
Interview Questions
