International Medical Graduates in US Orthopedic Residency Programs: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

Background: This study aims to provide insight regarding the different qualities of international medical graduates (IMGs) involved in US orthopedic residency programs.

Methods: Orthopedic residency programs accredited by the ACGME and listed in the AMA database were screened. Data on program size and location, IMG year of training, the geographic region of IMG's medical schools, their research experiences and number of gap years were included.

Results: A total of 167(80.3%) orthopedic residency programs were included. A total of 3838 residents were identified, of which 44 (1.15%) were IMGs. The United Kingdom and Ireland had the highest number of matched IMGs with four (9.1%) each. Massachusetts was the state with the highest number of enrolled IMGs. On average, IMGs had 26.3 publications and joined US orthopedic residency 4.66 years following medical school graduation.

Conclusion: Despite the many hurdles experienced by IMGs, a decent number succeeds in matching into US orthopedic residency programs each year.

Keywords: IMG; geographic distribution; international medical graduate; orthopedics; residency training.