Baylor College of Medicine/St Luke's Episcopal Hospital Program
Location:
Houston, TXSpecialty:
Advanced heart failure and transplant cardiologyACGME Code:
1594814006The Baylor College of Medicine's Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology fellowship program offers a comprehensive training opportunity in collaboration with the Texas Heart Institute and Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center. This program is designed to cultivate expertise in the diagnosis and management of advanced heart failure and transplantation.
Fellows receive rigorous training focusing on the pathophysiology, prevention, and treatment of congestive heart failure. The curriculum emphasizes both the clinical and ethical dimensions of transplant medicine.1
Curriculum
The fellowship curriculum includes diverse rotations and clinical experiences that ensure fellows acquire deep knowledge and hands-on skills. Fellows rotate through various training venues, including:
- Outpatient heart failure clinic
- Transplant and LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) clinic
- Heart failure ICU
- Post-heart transplant/LVAD ICU and nursing floor
- Cardiac catheterization and biopsy lab
Additionally, fellows are encouraged to engage in research activities, clinical trials, and device development. They also have the opportunity to serve as reviewers for the Texas Heart Institute Journal, thus participating in the academic community.4
Faculty and Mentorship
The program faculty consists of respected professionals who are deeply involved in the field of cardiology. They include experienced practitioners who mentor fellows throughout their training, providing insights that blend clinical practice with research and education.5
Application Requirements
Applicants to the fellowship are expected to submit a completed application package that includes:
- A small photo
- A current curriculum vitae
- A personal statement
- Three letters of reference, with one from the current program director
Interviews are conducted by invitation only and are scheduled on predetermined dates.3
Visa Support
The program offers visa support for international medical graduates. Visa types that can be sponsored include J-1 visas, which are commonly used for fellowship training in the United States. Further details about the visa application process can be confirmed during the interview stage.
Benefit Packages
Details regarding stipends and benefits for fellows are available via the Graduate Medical Education website. The program is committed to maintaining fellow well-being, providing access to various wellness resources for emotional and physical health.3
Life in Houston
Houston is noted for its diversity and vibrant culture, providing a rich environment during fellowship training. As the fourth-largest city in the United States, it balances the benefits of urban living with a lower cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas, allowing fellows to maximize their stipend.3
Competitiveness of the Program
The fellowship at the Baylor College of Medicine is highly competitive. Factors that contribute to the competitiveness include achieving strong performance on the USMLE exams and having substantial clinical experience prior to applying. The program also remains open to considering candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those from DO (Doctor of Osteopathy) and international medical graduates, making it an inclusive training environment.
Website
Director
Andrew Civitello, MDProgram Director/Medical Director Heart Transplant, Texas Heart Institute at Baylor St Luke's Medical Center Appointed Since July 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$81,380First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Houston, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Houston, TX
Houston, TX, is a diverse and vibrant city with a lot to offer. Here is some information to consider:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Houston is a big city with varying neighborhoods. It's always advisable to research specific areas for safety ratings before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Houston offers a wide range of cultural attractions, restaurants, parks, and museums. The city is also known for its sports teams and outdoor activities.
- Climate: Houston has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity levels.
- Races and Population: Houston's population is very diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural landscape.
- Education: Houston has several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for learning and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Houston is generally lower than in many other major U.S. cities. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Houston is relatively close to other major cities like Austin (about 2.5 to 3 hours by car) and San Antonio (about 3 to 3.5 hours by car). Both cities offer their own unique attractions and are great for weekend getaways.
Overall, living in Houston can offer a mix of urban amenities, cultural experiences, and diverse communities. However, it's essential to consider factors like safety, weather, and specific living costs before making a decision.
Interview Questions
