Do you take undergraduate medical students into the Orthopaedic Residency Programme?
No. Prospective candidates must be medical officers at time of application before we allow them into the programme. The programme is over 6 years. We do strongly recommend that you join us as a medical officer in an NHG orthopaedic department to explore your interest in orthopaedics before deciding to apply for the NHG orthopaedic residency programme.How important is research as a criteria to enter residency?
Research is essential to advancing medicine. The goal of research is to improve patient care, treatment and outcomes. We believe that getting involved in research helps you to understand the field better and to appreciate how different forms of research can help in patient management. As a potential resident, taking part in research is one of your first steps in a long learning journey. Additionally, it is a way to engage your potential future colleagues so we get to know you better!
Do I have to do MOPEX postings in NHG to be considered for NHG residency?
Yes! It is important that you experience working in orthopaedics as a medical officer in the clinics and in the operating theatre before making the decision to enter traineeship. We do need get to know you better as well, and what better way than to choose a rotation with us!
I really enjoy the subject matter but I don’t know if I have a flair for operating. Should I still consider Orthopaedics?
During your rotation to us, you will get to experience the operating theatre environment and be involved in various orthopaedic surgical procedures. This may tell you a bit more about how you feel. No one starts off as an excellent orthopaedic surgeon. The orthopaedic residency programme is planned to guide you and hone your surgical skills over 6 years of structured training so you can be a competent orthopaedic surgeon. Hard work and the right attitude is key. Besides surgery, research and education are also big focus points that you can embark on in your training, so if your talents lie in research for example, we welcome you too!
Is it possible to achieve work life balance in Orthopaedic residency?
We will be honest and say it is not impossible. It can be gruelling. However as we work hard, we also play hard. Our residents have a wide range of interests outside of work (including Mount Everest). Many find time to have families. One of our strengths is the close camaraderie that all residents share with each other. It helps to push each other forward; it is also there to support each other during the more trying times.I like orthopaedics but I don’t know if I’ll cut it in a male dominated field. Should I even try?
Although orthopaedics is traditionally a male dominated specialty, the landscape is changing. There are more female upcoming orthopaedic surgeons nowadays. Gender is definitely not a barrier. Technology and skill replace the typical brawn that one expects of the orthopaedic surgeon. Join us and get to know our female orthopaedic residents to find out more!
Am I eligible for the programme and how do I apply?
For general queries on residency application and eligibility, please refer to this page for more information.