University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine Program

The Sports Medicine Fellowship at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine provides an enriching and comprehensive training experience for aspiring orthopaedic sports surgeons. This program is uniquely positioned to offer hands-on learning with athletes from various competitive levels, including Division I Southeastern Conference athletes, Division II athletes, and local high school programs.

Fellows engage in both academic and private-practice settings, enabling them to acquire a diverse breadth of experience. They will be overseen by faculty experts in sports medicine, trauma, and subspecialties like shoulder and elbow surgery, ensuring quality mentoring throughout the fellowship.

Curriculum

The fellowship emphasizes real-world practice through extensive clinical exposure. Fellows will experience approximately 500 cases, covering varied surgical and clinical scenarios. These include complex knee surgeries, multi-ligament reconstructions, elbow arthroscopy, shoulder arthroplasties, and hip arthroscopy, among others 1.

During the week, fellows will dedicate three days to operating room duties, one day to clinical practice, and one day to research initiatives. Each fellow is expected to complete at least one research project and initiate a long-term project throughout their fellowship. The program is structured to facilitate a balance between clinical duties and academic inquiry.

Research Opportunities

A significant aspect of the program is its focus on research. The institution offers robust resources, allowing fellows to engage in both basic and clinical science projects. The Thompson Laboratory for Regenerative Orthopaedics is a state-of-the-art facility available to fellows, providing access to eminent faculty and research with potential national impact 1. Additionally, fellows have the opportunity to collaborate with a complete research team, including a director of research, grant coordinators, and medical illustrators.

Conference and Meeting Curriculum

The fellowship includes a comprehensive conference curriculum designed to enrich fellows' education. This includes:

• Grand Rounds: Held twice a month
• Sports Medicine Resident/Fellow Core Lectures: Weekly
• Sports Medicine Team Case Conference: Twice a month
• Sports Medicine Team Journal Club: Quarterly
• M&M Conference: Monthly

Moreover, fellows are encouraged to participate in various orthopaedic meetings, such as those hosted by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, enhancing their professional development and networking opportunities.

Supervision and Mentorship

Fellows are closely supervised by experienced faculty members, including the program's co-director. This mentorship is crucial for fostering the fellows' growth and development into capable, confident practitioners of orthopaedic sports medicine. They also have the unique opportunity to serve as team physicians for several University of Missouri athletic teams, allowing for immersive clinical experiences 1.

Living and Community

Fellows reside in Columbia, a vibrant college town that harmoniously blends the entertainment, sports, and cultural offerings of a larger city while providing a relaxed atmosphere and affordable living options. This makes housing and transportation convenient for fellows as they balance their rigorous training and personal lives.

Visa Support

The Sports Medicine Fellowship program is supportive of international candidates and offers visa sponsorship options, typically including J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating their participation in the fellowship.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is highly competitive, welcoming both U.S. and international medical graduates, including potentially DO and IMG candidates. Specific application requirements may include considerations of an applicant’s year of graduation and performance on licensure exams, though potential candidates are encouraged to check directly with the program for comprehensive application specifics.

Overall, the Sports Medicine Fellowship at the University of Missouri-Columbia equips fellows with the skills necessary for successful careers as orthopaedic sports surgeons, preparing them for leadership roles in both academic and private-practice settings.