Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Program
Location:
Phialdelphia, PASpecialty:
Pediatric cardiologyACGME Code:
3254111041The Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship Training Program at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is a distinguished program designed to cultivate proficient pediatric cardiologists. The training provided is thorough, hands-on, and rooted in research, aligning with the program's aim to produce competent clinicians, innovative leaders, and physician-scientists. The program is ACGME-accredited and facilitates advanced training opportunities across various subspecialties including noninvasive procedures, electrophysiology, and heart failure.
Program Overview
The fellowship has six first-year positions, with one additional slot available for ROTC or military-sponsored applicants on a case-by-case basis. The program features highly specialized facilities, including 66 patient beds, and manages a high patient volume with approximately 24,000 outpatient visits and 2,900 fetal echocardiograms annually. The hospital is equipped with advanced surgical and diagnostic centers, making it a hub for pediatric cardiac care 1.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum is intentionally rigorous, structured into clinical rotations and research opportunities. The first year focuses predominantly on clinical training with exposure to inpatient services, echocardiography, and cardiac catheterization, alongside night float responsibilities. In the second year, fellows gain experience in subspecialties such as electrophysiology and heart failure while dedicating time to research. The final year emphasizes scholarly work production and assumes greater clinical responsibilities.
Rotations
Fellows rotate through various core clinical areas, including:
- Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU): Fellows will treat critically ill patients while collaborating closely with critical care teams.
- Electrophysiology: Exposure to clinical electrophysiology, aiding in the diagnosis and management of arrhythmias through comprehensive procedural experience.
- Interventional Cardiology: Trainees assist in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, contributing to over 1,400 procedures performed annually.
- Adult Congenital Heart Disease: This rotation prepares fellows to manage the care transition from pediatrics to adult care in congenital heart disease patients.
Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes research as a key component of fellowship training. The research curriculum consists of a structured timeline for fellows to engage in scholarly activities. Each fellow is expected to collaborate closely with a designated research mentor, facilitating the development of a solid research foundation. By the end of the first year, fellows are expected to have identified a research focus, culminating in publication and conference presentations in subsequent years 1.
Mentorship and Professional Development
A unique aspect of the Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship is its strong emphasis on mentorship. Each fellow is paired with personal and research faculty mentors to help navigate the complexities of subspecialty practice and professional growth. This mentorship framework ensures that fellows receive guidance on various aspects of their training, including research direction, life balance, and professional aspirations 1.
Application Process and Requirements
To qualify for the fellowship, candidates must have graduated from a U.S. or Canadian medical school or have an ECFMG certificate. Applicants should have completed pediatric residency training in an ACGME-accredited program and are required to provide documentation of successful completion of Steps 1, 2, and 3 of the USMLE. The application materials, including a personal statement and letters of recommendation, must be submitted electronically through ERAS with a clear deadline for consideration.
Visa Sponsorship
This program offers visa sponsorship for candidates holding ECFMG certificates. The types of visas supported include J-1 and H-1B visa statuses 1.
Competitiveness
Due to the program's esteemed reputation, it is considered highly competitive, attracting top candidates from various backgrounds, including DO and IMG applicants. The rigorous training schedule, combined with a commitment to research and teaching, ensures that fellows are thoroughly prepared for leadership roles in pediatric cardiology.
Website
Director
Lindsay S Rogers, MDAssociate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics Appointed Since July 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
67hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$82,503First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, often referred to as "Philly," is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse culture. Here are some key aspects of living in Philadelphia for those in a medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has a varied crime rate depending on the neighborhood. While some areas may have higher crime rates, many neighborhoods are safe, especially those close to universities and hospitals. It is advisable to research specific neighborhoods to find safer living options.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia is known for its historical sites, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The city has a lively arts scene, numerous museums, parks, and sports events. The Philadelphia Museum of Art and the famous Broad Street serve as cultural hubs. The local cuisine, famous for cheesesteaks and pretzels, is also a major attraction.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from the high 70s to the high 80s °F (25-30 °C), while winter temperatures can drop to the 30s °F (around 0-5 °C). Snowfall can occur during winter months.
- Race and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a population of approximately 1.6 million people. A variety of cultures and ethnicities contribute to the city's vibrant community. The demographics include significant African American, White, Latino, and Asian populations.
- Education: The city hosts numerous higher education institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania, Thomas Jefferson University, and Temple University. The presence of these institutions enriches the local culture and education landscape.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is generally lower than cities like New York City and Washington D.C., but it can be higher than the national average. Housing costs vary significantly depending on the neighborhood, with options from affordable to more upscale areas.
- Bigger Cities Nearby: Philadelphia is approximately 1.5 hours from New York City (about 95 miles) and approximately 2 hours from Washington, D.C. (around 140 miles). Both cities offer additional cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities, making them viable options for weekend trips or quick getaways.
Pros:
- Rich historical and cultural experiences.
- Diverse community and educational resources.
- Relative affordability compared to nearby major cities.
- Access to a variety of healthcare facilities for residency training.
Cons:
- Variable safety and crime rates in different neighborhoods.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue in certain areas.
- Weather can be harsh in winter months.
Interview Questions
