University of Washington Program

The University of Washington Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program is distinguished for its comprehensive training in the field of orthopaedics, emphasizing pediatric orthopaedics as part of a broader curriculum. This five-year residency program is designed to develop skilled and compassionate orthopaedic surgeons, integrating rigorous clinical training with research opportunities across a variety of respected sites.

Program Overview

In this residency, eight residents are anticipated each year, combined with over sixty full-time faculty members from the University of Washington's Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. The residency experience is enveloped entirely within Seattle, showcasing premier facilities such as Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington Medical Center, and Seattle Children’s Hospital. These centers not only provide exceptional patient care but also stand out for their academic contributions and teaching environment.

Harborview Medical Center is renowned as the region's level one trauma center, notably hosting the leading foot and ankle program in the region. The UW Medical Center is recognized for its academic reconstructive orthopaedic surgery, while Seattle Children’s Hospital excels in pediatric orthopaedics, offering unique exposure for residents interested in that specialty.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency curriculum is structured to offer a diverse range of clinical experiences. In the first year (R1), the rotations include Orthopaedic Trauma, Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, and General Surgery, providing a foundational understanding of surgical practices. Subsequent years feature dedicated blocks focusing on broad subspecialties within orthopaedics such as Hand, Spine, Sports Medicine, and Tumor Surgery. Notably, the R3 year offers substantial training in Pediatric Orthopaedics with multiple six-week blocks at Seattle Children's Hospital.

Further into the residency, R4 and R5 rotations allow for specialization and elective choices, ensuring residents can gain indispensable expertise in their chosen areas. The R5 year culminates in chief residency responsibilities, specifically within critical settings like the Harborview Medical Center trauma service.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the residency program, with numerous avenues available for residents to engage in scholarly activities. The Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine holds a noteworthy reputation for NIH funding, facilitating involvement in groundbreaking research across various aspects of orthopaedics. Residents are allotted time blocks each year to focus on research activities and are expected to present findings during Resident Research Days, fostering an environment of academic excellence.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This residency program is uniquely situated to offer a comprehensive educational experience due to its collaborative culture among residents and faculty. Opportunities for leadership and clinical decision-making are encouraged, allowing residents to contribute significantly to the evolution of the residency program. Additionally, the vast network of clinical sites serves to expand the learning environment beyond conventional settings, enhancing exposure to a wide array of orthopaedic pathologies.

Training Sites

Residents gain experience across multiple esteemed clinical sites including:

• Harborview Medical Center
• University of Washington Medical Center
• Seattle Children’s Hospital
• Veteran’s Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System
• Northern Northwest Hospital and Medical Center

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program is open to international medical graduates (IMGs) and provides necessary visa support, including sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types. This commitment to inclusivity reflects the program’s dedication to diversity within the cohort.

In terms of competitiveness, the University of Washington Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program is recognized as a highly sought-after opportunity, which necessitates strong academic performance and experiences in orthopaedics to secure a place. Applicants are expected to submit USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores as part of their application, as well as maintain exemplary evaluations from their medical school dean’s letter and recommended standardized letter of recommendation forms.

Application Requirements

The application process requires the completion of a secondary application, submission of USMLE scores, and letters of recommendation. Notably, applicants who have failed the USMLE exams are typically not accepted into the program, reflecting the program’s emphasis on academic excellence and preparedness for rigorous clinical training.

Life in Seattle

Residents benefit from living in Seattle, a city known for its diverse recreational opportunities and vibrant culture. The area provides access to numerous outdoor activities ranging from hiking to skiing, making it ideal for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.