Orthopedics - Volunteering Overseas

Penn State Orthopaedics has this integrated into their program really well.

Here is a web site to look through for more information:

Thanks OrthoDoc--just what I was looking for.

Does anyone know of any other residency programs with an international health slant? Also, out in practice, how likely is it to be able to spend 1-2 months a year abroad?

I would tell you that spending 1-2 months abroad would be frowned upon in most practices. Two weeks a year probably wouldn't be a problem. Maybe spending a month every several years would be tolerated, but on a yearly basis would be tough on the group. Being gone more than a couple of weeks in a row places an extra burden on the group when it comes to following up on your patients and taking call. In our group, any vacation beyond three weeks in a row must be approved by the entire group before it is authorized.

There is a plan by one of the faculty members at Wayne State to start an annual 1-2 month elective experience at a clinic in Africa (I think in Kenya). This isn't up and running yet, but he's committed to the project (don't know his name).

Regarding doing this in private practice...while I don't disagree with orthodoc's statement, it should be noted that it is a generalization.

If you stay in academia you should be able to find a position willing to let you go for extended periods during the year (all the better if you work with an academic center in the developing country...the academic link would look good, plus you would be able to work in an equipped hospital istead of a hut).

Also, if you are very flexible in choosing a practice location, you should be able to find a group with other members who have motivations or interests that draws them away for extended periods during the year, such that different members may be gone at any given time.

PM me if you like as I am seriously banking on one of the two plans above to work out during my career (I'm very interested in relief work).

i recently saw an article in JBJS about a guy doing this. there was also a story in another journal that i can't remember right now. search the ortho literature - there are a few stories - i would contact these people. good luck