University of Washington Program

The University of Washington Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program is designed to provide a comprehensive training experience in the field of orthopaedic surgery. This five-year accredited program begins with the PGY-1 year, and it accepts eight residents annually, allowing for a total of forty residents in training at any given time. The program is situated in Seattle, Washington, and draws from a broad range of first-rate clinical and academic facilities, including Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, Veteran's Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, and the University of Washington Sports Medicine Center.

This residency program is unique due to its strong emphasis on collaboration and partnership between residents and faculty. Decisions concerning rotations, research projects, and educational opportunities are made with significant input from the residents, fostering a dynamic learning environment that prepares residents to become leaders in the field of orthopaedics.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum covers the full spectrum of orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine. Residents will engage in hands-on clinical training, surgical procedures, and patient management across various orthopaedic subspecialties. This includes exposure to trauma, adult reconstruction, pediatric orthopaedics, spine surgery, sports medicine, and more, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Clinical Rotations

Clinical rotations occur at some of the top medical centers in the United States, providing residents with diverse clinical experiences. The key training sites include:

• Harborview Medical Center: This facility serves as the region's premier level one trauma center and is particularly noted for its expertise in foot and ankle surgery and spine care.
• University of Washington Medical Center: Known for its advanced reconstructive surgery capabilities, this center offers comprehensive training in upper and lower extremity procedures.
• Seattle Children's Hospital: As a renowned institution for pediatric orthopaedics, residents gain vital experience treating younger patients.
• VA Puget Sound Health Care System: This site focuses on joint reconstruction and complex surgeries for veterans, skillfully integrating teaching and veteran care.
• Northwest Hospital and Medical Center: Provides community orthopaedic practice exposure, enhancing the understanding of the subtleties of outpatient orthopaedic care.
• UW Sports Medicine Center: Offers top-tier care for varsity athletes and enhances expertise in sports-related injuries.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral part of the UW Orthopaedic Residency, and the program boasts high levels of NIH funding, signifying robust research activities within the department. Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects throughout their training, with a dedicated six-week block for research allocated to all third-year residents. Each resident is also expected to present at the annual Resident Research Days, showcasing a commitment to scholarly activity.1

Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements

The program is committed to supporting international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorship for qualified candidates. The program typically sponsors the J-1 visa, which is common for residency programs. Applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility criteria specific to visa applications.

Regarding application requirements, candidates must provide USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores before interviews. The program maintains a competitive selection process and values diverse experiences, emphasizing the importance of leadership, clinical excellence, and service to others. Only a limited number of applications are accepted, as there are clear standards related to academic performance and experiences.

The program requires applicants to submit a Dean's letter, transcript via ERAS, and at least three references, including the AOA/CORD standardized letter of recommendation. A secondary application is part of the application process, with the deadline outlined for prospective candidates.

Competitiveness

The University of Washington Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated on their academic performance, clinical skills, and overall preparedness for residency. While it is primarily geared toward US medical graduates, there is recognition of the ability of international medical graduates to excel within the program. This supportive and enriching environment promotes diversity and inclusion within the residency cohort, reflecting our commitment to equipping the next generation of orthopaedic leaders.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Several unique aspects set this program apart from others in the field. One of the program's hallmarks is its emphasis on resident input in curricular development and administrative decisions, which ensures that the training experience meets the evolving needs of the residents. Additionally, the program's extensive resources, including access to numerous full-time faculty and ongoing engagement in research, fosters an environment of innovative learning and opportunity for residents.