Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center Program

The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine is structured as a five-year program that aims to cultivate proficient orthopedic surgeons equipped to manage a range of cases, from routine fractures to complex tertiary referrals. Graduating residents from this program can anticipate being well-prepared to tackle the diverse challenges presented in the field of orthopedic surgery.

Program Overview

This program admits five residents annually and is fully accredited. Residents will primarily treat patients at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, a renowned Level I trauma center that services parts of North Carolina and beyond.

Mission Statement

The mission of the residency is dedicated to fostering excellence in musculoskeletal care. The program ensures that residents emerge as not only skilled surgeons but also as informed leaders within healthcare. The goals focus on clinical and surgical training, mentorship, and community service, encouraging residents to advocate for both patients and the healthcare system 1.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum emphasizes a balanced approach consisting of clinical rotations, didactics, and research. Each resident is expected to undergo rotations through all orthopedic subspecialties, ensuring comprehensive exposure necessary for defining future fellowship choices.

Clinical Rotations

The residency's first year includes rotations in general surgery, emergency medicine, and plastic surgery alongside clinical orthopedics, creating a foundation for advanced knowledge. In the subsequent years, residents focus exclusively on orthopedic services such as pediatric orthopedics, trauma, hand surgery, and sports medicine. This structured rotation prepares residents for board certification, as successful completion of the program allows them to sit for the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery examination 4.

Research Opportunities

Research plays a crucial role in resident training with clinical and basic science research encouraged during residency. Residents benefit from allocated research time, particularly during their PGY3 and PGY4 years, allowing them time to develop their own research initiatives 3. Some residents can even opt for an additional two years of research as part of the seven-year physician scientist training program, enhancing their research credentials while allowing for clinical practice experience 4.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program actively promotes diversity within its training environment. Through initiatives like the Nth Dimension Summer Internship Program and the Kennedy Hoplins Scholarship Program, it seeks to enhance representation in medicine, particularly for underrepresented minority groups within orthopedic surgery 2.

Application Process

Prospective residents must submit applications through ERAS, including a program-specific supplemental application. Requirements include USMLE scores, medical school transcripts, and letters of recommendation. This residency is considered highly competitive, favoring applicants with strong academic backgrounds and competencies in clinical skills 5.

Competitiveness and Special Considerations

Worldwide recognition and strong applicant pools make the program highly competitive. While it accommodates a diverse array of applicants, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds, it requires a solid academic record and the successful completion of USMLE Step exams. There are no specific limitations on the number of failed STEP exams cited within the program criteria, making it relatively inclusive compared to other programs 5.

Visa Support

The program provides support for visa applications for international medical graduates. The specific types of visas that may be sponsored generally include the J-1 visa, which is commonly used for residents and fellows in training programs 1.

Work-Life Balance

Wake Forest values resident well-being, promoting a supportive environment that emphasizes mental health and work-life balance. The program strives to adhere strictly to 80-hour work week guidelines. Additionally, efforts are made to provide residents with time off to maintain personal health and wellness 6.

Living in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem, known as the "City of the Arts," offers a conducive environment for residing during residency. The town has an array of recreational activities, dining options, and cultural experiences, making it an appealing place for residents to relax and explore during their training years 6.