Something to Consider
COA travelling fellowships are not a thing of the past

Emil H. Schemitsch, M.D., FRCSC
Editor in Chief

There has been significant discussion as of late regarding the lack of interest in the travelling fellowships sponsored by the Canadian Orthopaedic Association.

These travelling fellowships include the ABC (American/British/Canadian), NATF (North American), ASG (Austrian/Swiss/German) and other prestigious fellowships. This has occurred despite the tremendous job done by the Chair of the Exchange Fellowship Committee to promote these opportunities.

What has led to this apathy? There is no question that a four to six week period of time away from one’s family and practice is a major sacrifice. As well, the notion that visits to other orthopaedic centres are required to exchange ideas, may no longer be relevant in this day and age of the Internet and instantaneous information transfer.

Despite this, these fellowships do have very significant value. An intense period of travel with a like-minded group of individuals usually leads to the establishment of life-long friendships. The value of establishing contacts with prominent individuals in one’s field of practice cannot be underestimated. Moreover, the fellows who go and visit a number of different centres are exposed to new ideas as well as old traditions that can be incorporated into practice, used to develop one’s career and ultimately improve Canadian orthopaedics. The travelling fellows are usually treated like royalty so that it really does become “a once in a lifetime opportunity”. Finally, selection as a travelling fellow brings honour to one’s centre as well as to the Canadian Orthopaedic Association.

As a former fellow myself, I would therefore encourage all that have an interest to consider applying for a travelling fellowship.