A program which provides orthopedic residents with first-hand experience in handling athletic injuries was described by Edward T. Smith, MD, chief of the orthopedic service at Hermann Hospital, Houston, and team physician for Rice University.
Hermann Hospital is directly across the street from Rice University, Smith noted, and orthopedic residents have been utilized in the Rice athletic program since the residency program was started following World War II.
Smith told The Journal, "The orthopedic residents, on a rotation basis, attend every football practice. The resident's presence in the training room before practice, on the field during practice, and back in the training room after practice makes him available for any problem where a physician is needed."
Also, Smith continued, "A resident is assigned as team physician to all freshman games, and makes road trips with the freshman football squad. The residents assist in the preseason general examination of the athletes."