Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center Program

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine is designed to provide its residents with comprehensive training in musculoskeletal care. The program spans five years and includes a variety of clinical experiences ranging from routine fracture management to highly specialized tertiary orthopaedic surgery referrals. It offers five residency positions annually and is fully accredited by relevant authorities.

Residents in the program primarily treat patients at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, a leading Level I trauma center catering to both pediatric and adult populations across the regions of North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, and South Carolina. The program aims to cultivate surgically proficient leaders in orthopaedic care, instilling values of education, compassion, teamwork, and integrity among its trainees 1.

Mission and Vision

The mission is to train the future leaders of orthopedic surgery, equipping them with both clinical and surgical skills necessary for optimal patient care. Moreover, it aspires to nurture clinician-scientists who will contribute to advancements in orthopedics and advocate for the healthcare system and patients 1.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum is structured to ensure comprehensive training in orthopaedics. The first year includes rotations that encompass general surgery, emergency medicine, and plastic surgery, with further years focusing on various orthopaedic subspecialties such as pediatric orthopaedics, orthopaedic trauma, sports medicine, and more. Each resident completes rotations through all subspecialties twice, allowing for deeper understanding and engagement 4.

Clinical Rotations

Residents gain practical experience at multiple training sites, including:

• Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center: With 885 licensed beds, this is a hub for diverse medical services.
• Brenner Children's Hospital: This is North Carolina's first Level I pediatric trauma center.
• Veterans Affairs Hospital: Located 40 miles from the main campus, this site provides additional exposure to general orthopaedic practice.
• Spine Center - Clemmons: Focused on spine-related practices.
• Davie Medical Center: Primarily outpatient clinics for various orthopaedic concerns.

This rotation system supports a progression of learning from junior to senior levels, with senior residents engaging in elective rotations to tailor their training to specific interests 4.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital aspect of the training at Wake Forest, where residents are encouraged to engage in clinical and basic science research. A dedicated one-month research rotation is built into the first-year schedule, while PGY3 and PGY4 residents are allotted one day each week for research projects, advancing their capacity as future clinician-scientists 1.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program accepts applications from both MD and DO medical students, with requirements including USMLE Step I & II, medical school transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. The program follows a competitive application procedure, and applicants may submit a supplemental application to enhance their candidateship. Interviews are conducted in person over selected dates 5.

Visa Sponsorship

The program offers visa sponsorship for applicants requiring work authorization in the United States, typically through J-1 or H-1B visa categories. This allows international medical graduates (IMGs) to be considered for residency positions while pursuing further education in the United States 5.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

The program acknowledges the importance of diversity and inclusion in medicine. It has implemented initiatives to support underrepresented minority residents, as well as opportunities for high school students to explore careers in orthopaedic surgery through community engagement programs 1.

Training Environment

The environment fosters a strong work-life balance with dedicated support ranging from faculty members to fellow residents. The program emphasizes the importance of maintaining health and wellness alongside rigorous training, allowing for scheduled breaks to promote resident welfare 6.

Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty of the Orthopaedic Surgery Residency encompasses a diverse group of fellowship-trained professionals across multiple orthopaedic subspecialties. Each faculty member plays a crucial role as a mentor, contributing to the academic and clinical training of each resident, ensuring they receive high-quality education and support throughout their residency journey 1.

Life in Winston-Salem

Residents enjoy the vibrant culture of Winston-Salem, known for its art community, outdoor activities, and proximity to natural attractions including the Blue Ridge Mountains. The lifestyle promotes a healthy balance between work and leisure, crucial for overall well-being during residency 6.