UPMC Medical Education Program
Location:
Pittsburgh, PASpecialty:
Hand surgery (Plastic surgery)ACGME Code:
3634121016The Hand Surgery Fellowship Program at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) is an ACGME-accredited, one-year fellowship focused on hand and upper extremity surgery. This program is designed to provide a comprehensive and advanced training experience in various aspects of hand surgery, including microsurgery. It is a collaborative effort between the Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery Services and the Hand & Upper Ex Center, which enriches the educational experience and facilitates exposure to both skeletal and soft tissue components of hand surgery.
The fellowship is open to candidates who have completed residency training in Plastic Surgery, Orthopaedic Surgery, or General Surgery accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Duration and Scope
The fellowship lasts for a full year during which fellows gain increasing responsibility and experience in all areas of shoulder, elbow, and hand surgery, including microsurgical techniques. Trainees will engage in a variety of clinical experiences distributed across both an academic institution and a private surgery center. The program offers seven positions available for matched candidates seeking to immerse themselves in both essential and advanced surgical procedures.
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum is comprehensive and includes participation in didactic lectures, joint conferences, and journal clubs with fellows from both the Hand Surgery Fellowship and the Orthopaedic Hand Fellowship. The clinical responsibilities involve performing surgical procedures at a state-of-the-art freestanding surgery center as well as complex upper extremity reconstructions at the University Health Center of Pittsburgh. Each fellow will be trained by a dedicated faculty, with expertise and a Certificate of Added Qualifications in hand surgery.
Research Opportunities
Fellows are expected to undertake at least one clinical research project resulting in presentation and publication during the fellowship year. Significant opportunities for basic and applied science research are also available, particularly for those interested in conducting research in esteemed laboratories connected with the program. Fellows will have access to nationally recognized facilities and mentors who guide their research interests.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Hand Surgery Fellowship is a highly competitive program. Applicants are generally expected to possess strong academic credentials, including completion of relevant clinical training. As with many competitive fellowships, candidates must demonstrate professionalism, leadership skills, and a commitment to pursuing hand surgery.
Special application requirements typically include a completed application form, current CV, and letters of recommendation, including one from the residency program director. There may also be an expectation regarding the maximum allowed number of failed STEP exams.
Visa Support
The UPMC Hand Surgery Fellowship Program offers visa support for international medical graduates. The program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visa types for eligible fellows. This allowance facilitates a broader range of applicants to maximize the diversity and expertise among fellows.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One unique aspect of the fellowship is the collaborative training model, where the integration between two specialties allows fellows to learn from a diverse set of surgical approaches and philosophies. This structure enhances the educational experience and provides a well-rounded approach to solving complex surgical issues presented by patients.
The training environment is designed not only to develop surgical skills but also to cultivate leadership and academic proficiency in plastic surgery and hand surgery. By fostering collaboration and teamwork among fellows, residents, and faculty, the program promotes an innovative and supportive learning atmosphere.
Overall, the UPMC Hand Surgery Fellowship Program strives to prepare fellows for successful academic and clinical careers in hand surgery.
Website
Director
Nicole J Jarrett, MDProgram Director Appointed Since March 2024 -Coordinator
Program
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Admission
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-Location
Pittsburgh, PA
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Living in Pittsburgh, PA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Pittsburgh has a slightly higher-than-average crime rate compared to the national average. However, specific neighborhoods within the city vary in safety levels, so it's advisable to research the area where you'll be living.
- Fun Activities: Pittsburgh is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, sports events, numerous parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities along its three rivers.
- Climate: Pittsburgh experiences all four seasons, with cold winters, warm summers, and beautiful fall foliage.
- Races and Population: Pittsburgh is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The city has a population of around 300,000 people.
- Education: Pittsburgh is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Pittsburgh is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the US, particularly in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Pittsburgh is approximately a 5-hour drive from Philadelphia and a 6-hour drive from New York City. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences, entertainment, and employment opportunities.
- Pros: Vibrant arts and culture scene, affordable cost of living, beautiful outdoor scenery.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate in some areas, cold winters.
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