AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center Program

AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center offers a Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program designed to provide fellows with comprehensive training across various areas of cardiology. The fellowship, which has received ACGME accreditation, aims to train the next generation of cardiology leaders through a mix of clinical experiences, didactics, and research opportunities.

Program Overview

The fellowship program is centered at the Mainland Campus, which features state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology laboratories, a cardiothoracic surgery program, and advanced heart failure programs. Fellows gain valuable experience by working in both the Mainland and City Campuses, where they provide consult services and build ambulatory referral panels. The program emphasizes mentorship via experienced board-certified cardiologists who guide fellows through rotation experiences and help them develop the necessary competencies to become confident cardiologists 1.

Curriculum Structure

The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program is structured over three years, designed to offer progressively increased autonomy. The first year focuses on foundational skills essential for future success, while the subsequent years facilitate elective opportunities tailored to individual fellows' interests. There are also opportunities for fellows to engage in local and national research projects, enhancing their academic and practical experiences in cardiovascular medicine 2.

Rotations

Fellows participate in diverse clinical rotations covering the entire spectrum of cardiology. The curriculum meets all ACGME required elements, including Level 2 COCATS echocardiography and nuclear cardiology. The program aims to provide a rich clinical experience while fostering a collaborative learning environment 2.

Didactics and Conferences

Didactic training is a core component of the fellowship, with fellows participating in a range of conferences that enhance their learning. Regularly scheduled events include Core Curriculum Conference Series, Clinical Case Conferences, Research Conferences, and Quality Improvement Conferences. Core sessions, held twice a month, cover various cardiology topics facilitated by faculty members, encouraging fellows' active participation. Compression of didactic training into specific half-days each month allows for concentrated focus on complex case discussions and advancements in cardiology 3.

Salary and Benefits

For the academic year 2024-2025, the salary for PGY 4 fellows is set at $72,637.39. The program provides a competitive benefits package, ensuring fellows receive adequate support as they progress through their training 4.

Research Opportunities

Fellows have numerous research opportunities available to them throughout their training. Participation in innovative research projects contributes to the evolution of cardiovascular medicine, and fellows are encouraged to design their studies or engage in existing projects. This participation enhances the fellows' understanding and expertise in critical areas of cardiology 2.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program is competitive and admits candidates who are U.S. citizens or classified as resident aliens. Although it’s open to a diverse range of applicants, including those from DO backgrounds, IMG candidates should thoroughly review specific requirements. Applicants must showcase qualifications such as successful completion of an ACGME accredited internal medicine training program and submit letters of recommendation, personal statements, and USMLE or COMLEX reports through the ERAS application system 5.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The AtlantiCare fellowship prides itself on its patient-centered approach, fostering a culture of empathy and ethics alongside clinical excellence. The collaborative environment prepares fellows to work as part of a dedicated team committed to advancing professional growth and healthcare excellence 2. Mentorship from acknowledged experts during clinical rotations enables fellows to gain insights directly related to their fields of interest.