Residency Advisor

The University of Iowa Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program provides an extensive and rigorous training experience in the field of orthopedic surgery. As a 5-year program, it accepts seven residents annually, totaling 35 residents in training. This program is designed to generate adept orthopedic surgeons who are well-prepared for clinical practice, subspecialty fellowships, and leadership positions within the medical community.1

Program Structure and Features

The residency training is centered at two main facilities: a major tertiary care teaching hospital and a Veterans Affairs hospital. This approach offers a unique blend of training opportunities that fosters close relationships between residents and faculty, ensuring personalized mentorship and an effective learning environment.2

Call Schedules

The call schedule within the program is structured to be resident-friendly. Interns generally share weekend duties with shifts split into 12-hour blocks. As they progress through the years, the call responsibilities transition to a model where senior residents primarily perform operational tasks with a reduced frequency in call duty, averaging every twelfth day for PGY4 and PGY5 residents.3

Diversity and Inclusion

The program has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. It actively works to combat discrimination and unconscious bias within the healthcare setting. The department sponsors initiatives to promote gender diversity and supports recruitment of underrepresented minorities to both faculty and resident positions.4

Educational Programs

Education is a core value of the University of Iowa Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program. Faculty members are deeply involved in teaching, participating in daily rounds and various educational conferences including lectures, journal clubs, and quality improvement meetings.5

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research throughout their training. Each resident works with a faculty mentor to develop and complete research projects, culminating in a presentation at the end of their PGY4 year. The program provides the necessary support for material, supplies, and costs associated with national presentation at conferences.6

Rotations

The residency experience encompasses a variety of rotations across numerous orthopedic subspecialties, including general orthopedics, sports medicine, trauma, and joint replacement. Each resident rotates on multiple occasions through different services, gaining comprehensive exposure and hands-on experience in various aspects of orthopedic care while promoting graduated responsibilities.7

Application Details

The program is competitive and attracts residents from a diverse geographical background. Applicants are expected to submit their materials through ERAS, including letters of recommendation and USMLE scores. The program welcomes candidates holding degrees from both DO and MD institutions, as well as international medical graduates. Visa sponsorship is available for J-1 visas, making it accessible for a broader international candidate pool.8

Special Application Requirements

While specific details such as year of graduation or maximum failures in the STEP exams are not explicitly stated, it is advisable for applicants to maintain a strong academic record and meet the typical expectations often associated with highly competitive residency programs.

Resident Life

The environment at the University of Iowa is known for its camaraderie and support among residents and faculty. Residents often describe a sense of community that extends beyond the hospital, highlighting the work-life balance and social opportunities available in the vibrant community of Iowa City.9

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

7, 7, 7, 6, 6 (5 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since April 1962

Composition

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

60hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

24hrs

First Year Salary:

$64,000

First Year Paid Vacation:

21 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

Unlimited days

Training

Fellowship Rate:

100%

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

0.8X

Residents career path:

Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

H1B, J1, F1

YOG Cutoff:

-

Match History

1203260C0

2024

7 of 7

2023

7 of 7

2022

7 of 7

2021

6 of 7

2020

6 of 6

Location

Iowa City, IA

Population
74,828
Income
$57,533
Education
60.7%
Employment
65.2%
Health
5%
Age
26

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Iowa City, IA

  • Crime Rate and Safety: Iowa City is known for being a safe and peaceful city with a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the United States.
  • Fun Activities: Being a college town, Iowa City offers a vibrant cultural scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy various parks and trails for activities like hiking and biking.
  • Climate: Iowa City experiences all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Be prepared for significant snowfall during the winter months.
  • Races and Population: Iowa City has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, including a significant student population due to the presence of the University of Iowa.
  • Education: Iowa City is home to the University of Iowa, providing opportunities for academic and cultural enrichment.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Iowa City is relatively affordable compared to larger cities, making it an attractive option for residents.
  • Nearby Cities: Des Moines is the nearest major city to Iowa City, located approximately 2 hours away by car. Des Moines offers a wider variety of entertainment, dining, and shopping options.
  • Pros: Safe environment, vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, affordable cost of living.
  • Cons: Cold winters with significant snowfall, limited shopping options compared to larger cities.

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Nearby Programs

Orthopaedic surgery

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