Frequently Asked Questions

How many orthopaedic surgery residents match to Walter Reed each year?

There are 6 residents that match to Walter Reed’s orthopaedic surgery GME program each year. Three of which are Army, three are Navy.

How many orthopaedic surgery residents match to in the Military each year? What other locations are available?

This number changes year to year and depends on the needs of the Army, Navy and Airforce. Annually, the Army trains ~20 residents, the Navy trains ~20 residents, and the Air Force trains ~20 residents.

Where are the Military Treatment Facilities that train orthopaedic residents?

Army Locations:

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Bethesda, MD): 3
San Antonio Military Medical Center (San Antonio, TX): 3
Madigan Army Medical Center (Tacoma, WA): 3
William Beaumont Army Medical Center (El Paso, TX): 3
Tripler Army Medical Center (Medical Center, HI): 3
Eisenhower Army Medical Center (Augusta, GA): 2

Navy Locations:

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Bethesda, MD): 3
Naval Medical Center San Diego (San Diego, CA): 4
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (Portsmouth, VA): 5

Air Force Locations:

San Antonio Military Medical Center (San Antonio, TX): 3

Does the military pay for away rotations?

Yes. As a part of the HPSP scholarship, each military branch provides compensation for away rotations. Please see your branch point of GME contact for specific information. For example, the Army allows for one 6-week Active Duty for Training (ADTs) during each year of medical school. During this time, you are paid as an active duty O-1 (officer 1 pay grade). First year of medical school, this is typically completed at your medical school – no travel, just increased pay. During second year of medical school, this is typically done in conjunction with required military training. In the Army, this is called Basic Officer Leadership Course (San Antonio, TX). In the Navy, this is call Officer Candidate School (Newport, RI). The third and four year ADTs are used for away rotations. Most candidates will complete two or three rotations. For two of these rotations, airfare, lodging, and per diem for food will be provided. If you wish to complete a third away rotation, this will not be covered by the military.

What sets Walter Reed ahead of other military orthopaedic programs?

Every program in the military produces high quality, well trained orthopaedic surgeons. Walter Reed, however, leads the Military Health System. It boasts dedicated staff, robust research infrastructure and high quality outside rotations at world renown institutions. Walter Reed prepares residents to work as competent general orthopaedic surgeons or train at some of the best fellowships in the nation.