University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio Joe and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine Program

The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio is a premier medical education institution, renowned for training a substantial number of physicians in South Texas. Annually, the program educates around 900 medical students and trains approximately 800 residents across various specialties, including a strong focus on orthopaedic surgery.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum at the Long School of Medicine is modern and comprehensive. The medical education incorporates a wide array of learning methodologies, promoting an environment that nurtures collaboration and exploration. Students can expect a blend of classroom learning and hands-on clinical experiences. The program emphasizes a patient-centered approach, equipping students with necessary clinical skills right from the start. Furthermore, it provides unique clinical opportunities through affiliations with various hospitals and healthcare systems, allowing for diverse and rich training experiences.

Rotations and Clinical Training

Throughout the residency in orthopaedic surgery, residents engage in diverse clinical rotations. These rotations encompass essential areas such as trauma, pediatrics, sports medicine, hand surgery, and spine surgery to develop well-rounded surgical skills. The program ensures that residents are exposed to a wide spectrum of cases, enhancing their diagnostic and surgical capabilities. Early exposure to surgical practice is one of the program's hallmarks, allowing residents to take an active part in patient care from the start.

Research Opportunities

The Long School of Medicine strongly encourages research, providing ample opportunities for residents to engage in scholarly activities. Residents interested in research can collaborate with faculty on ongoing projects or pursue independent investigations leading to presentations and publications. The program’s research facilities are state-of-the-art, supporting various studies in orthopaedics and related fields. Faculty members are internationally recognized leaders in their respective research areas, including cancer, diabetes, and aging.

Research at the institution includes translational efforts that take discoveries from the lab to the clinic, aiming to improve patient care and outcomes. The program's commitment to research ensures that residents are not only involved in clinical work but also contribute to advancing the field through innovative studies.

Training Sites

Training occurs at multiple affiliated hospitals, providing residents with exposure to different patient populations and clinical settings. These sites include the University Hospital, known for its comprehensive trauma service, and other specialty clinics that enrich the residency experience. Each site offers unique resources and learning opportunities, enabling residents to develop their skills in various healthcare environments.

Visa Support

The program is friendly towards international medical graduates (IMGs) and provides visa sponsorship options, including H-1B and J-1 visa types, facilitating the application process for eligible candidates. Visa support ensures that applicants from diverse backgrounds can seek opportunities within the orthopedic residency.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The orthopaedic surgery residency at the Long School of Medicine is highly competitive. Prospective residents are typically required to possess a solid academic record, high scores on the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), and a strong commitment to the field. The program is open to both MD and DO graduates, as well as international medical graduates. While there are no explicitly stated maximum limits regarding failed exams, candidates with multiple attempts may face increased scrutiny during the selection process.

Specific application requirements include graduation from an accredited medical school and completion of the USMLE Step 1 and 2 exams. Applicants should also exhibit a passion for orthopaedics, as demonstrated through relevant clinical experiences, research, and strong letters of recommendation.

Unique Aspects of the Program

What sets this program apart is its dedication to community service and its integration with local health institutions. The School of Medicine emphasizes a responsive approach to healthcare needs, inspiring residents to engage in community-oriented projects and outreach. This commitment not only enriches the educational experience but also cultivates a culture of empathy and service among residents.

The Long School of Medicine also fosters a culture of mentorship, with experienced faculty members dedicated to guiding residents throughout their training. This supportive environment is critical in shaping competent and compassionate orthopaedic surgeons.