Virginia Commonwealth University Health System Program
Location:
Richmond, VASpecialty:
Hand surgery (Orthopaedic surgery)ACGME Code:
2635126086Program Overview
The Virginia Commonwealth University Health System Program in Hand Surgery (Orthopaedic Surgery) offers a comprehensive five-year residency program designed to prepare physicians for successful careers in various orthopaedic specialties. Each year, the program accepts five new residents into its curriculum, which heavily focuses on both clinical experience and academic enrichment.
1Clinical Experience
The residency provides a diverse clinical experience primarily based at VCU Health, which features 15 full-time faculty members specializing in all orthopaedic subspecialties. Residents also gain hands-on experience at affiliated sites such as Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center and St. Mary’s Hospital. In addition, residents participate in private subspecialty clinics located at VCU Health at Stony Point and VCU Sports Medicine Center.
1Rotations
The structure of the residency includes a variety of rotations aimed at providing a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge. During the first year (PGY-1), residents undertake 13 four-week rotations, which consist of six orthopaedic rotations and three rotations in other surgical specialties alongside geriatric medicine, musculoskeletal infectious disease, and musculoskeletal radiology.
From PGY-2 through PGY-5, residents engage in specific 10-week blocks, covering general orthopaedic services and subspecialties. Highlights include:
- PGY-1 Rotations: Two months at the Veterans Administration, three months at VCU Downtown Days, and various rotations through trauma surgery, pediatric surgery, plastic surgery, and intensive care.
- PGY-2: General orthopaedics, Hand and Upper Extremity, Adult Reconstruction, Sports Medicine, and Night Float.
- PGY-3: Musculoskeletal Oncology, Pediatric Orthopaedics, Orthopaedic Trauma, and more.
- PGY-4: Adults Reconstruction, Hand and Upper Extremity, Spine, and Foot & Ankle.
- PGY-5: Administrative Chief resident responsibilities along with advanced training in Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Oncology.
Research Opportunities
Research plays a critical role in the residency program. The curriculum mandates each resident to complete a minimum of two publishable research projects during their training period. These projects are encouraged to be presented at regional or national conferences and submitted to peer-reviewed journals, supported by department resources and mentorship.
1Conferences and Educational Activities
Dedicated academic times are scheduled throughout the week, allowing residents to engage in various educational conferences:
- Fracture conference on Mondays
- Basic science conferences on Tuesdays
- Indications conferences on Thursdays
- Orthopaedic teaching conferences on Fridays
- Monthly Grand Rounds
These activities are designed to engage residents intellectually and keep them updated with current practices and research in orthopaedics.
1Application Process and Requirements
Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with all necessary documentation due by the specified deadline. The selection process involves a comprehensive review of several components, including:
- USMLE scores
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Dean’s letter
Qualified applicants will be invited for interviews that also include an informal dinner, providing opportunities for candidates to interact with current residents and faculty.
1Visa Support
The program is amenable to sponsoring visas for international medical graduates, with support typically extended for J-1 or H-1B visa types. Applicants needing visa sponsorship should clearly indicate this in their applications.
1Competitiveness and Applicant Profiles
The Hand Surgery (Orthopaedic Surgery) program at VCU is considered competitive but is open to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including both DO and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program actively encourages applications from all qualified candidates.
1Website
Director
Jonathan E Isaacs, MDProgram Director, Professor, Vice Chairman of Research and Education, and Eminent Scholar Appointed Since July 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$76,835First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Richmond, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Richmond, VA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Richmond has a mix of safe and more concerning neighborhoods. It's advisable to research the specific area you'll be living in to ensure safety.
- Fun Activities: Richmond offers a thriving arts and culture scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, museums, historical sites, and a variety of dining options.
- Climate: Richmond experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity during the summer months.
- Races and Population: Richmond has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities enriching the city's character.
- Education: Richmond is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for continued learning and cultural activities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Richmond is relatively moderate compared to some other urban areas in the U.S.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Richmond is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away from bigger cities like Washington D.C. and Virginia Beach. These cities offer additional cultural and recreational opportunities.
- Pros: Diverse cultural scene, historical significance, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Varied neighborhood safety, hot and humid summers.
Interview Questions
