Children's National Hospital/George Washington University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Pediatric cardiologyACGME Code:
3251021007The Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship at Children's National Hospital, affiliated with George Washington University, is dedicated to training physicians who will excel in pediatric cardiovascular care. This three-year program, accredited by ACGME, emphasizes the acquisition of skills in clinical care, research, and education. The mission of the fellowship is to cultivate a diverse group of physicians capable of innovative and culturally competent approaches in cardiac care, supported by high-quality clinical experiences and tailored educational opportunities 1.
The fellowship program is structured over a 36-month period, during which fellows develop their proficiency through a variety of training modules encompassing clinical rotations, research activities, and academic experiences. The unique environment within the Children's National Heart Center fosters a multidisciplinary approach that includes not only cardiology but also cardiovascular surgery, cardiac anesthesia, and cardiac intensive care. The Heart Center serves as a national and international referral center, recognized as the largest congenital heart program in the mid-Atlantic region 1.
Curriculum
The fellowship structure consists of approximately 36 months divided as follows: research (6 weeks), cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) (4 weeks), inpatient service (5 weeks), consults (4 weeks), imaging (8 weeks), electrophysiology (6 weeks), cardiac catheterization (8 weeks), and subspecialty rotations (2 weeks). Fellows also engage in outpatient continuity clinics starting from their first year. The program integrates extensive clinical training including a strong emphasis on pediatric electrophysiology, cardiac catheterization, and imaging techniques such as echocardiography and MRI, which are addressed throughout the fellowship 6.
Research Opportunities
Research is a core element of the fellowship, with approximately one-third of the fellowship duration dedicated to research activities. The program encourages fellows to engage in both clinical and basic science research through collaborations with the Children's National Research Institute, George Washington University, and various other institutions like the National Institutes of Health. Fellows have opportunities to access newly developed facilities designed to enhance pediatric research, especially within domains focused on surgical innovations and advancing child health 7.
Unique Aspects of the Program
Children's National Hospital's pediatric cardiology fellowship stands out due to its comprehensive training approach that blends clinical excellence with research. The program supports fellows with a substantial educational stipend, laptop provision, and opportunities for advanced fellowships in specialized fields, including imaging and electrophysiology. The environment promotes a culture of collective learning facilitated by frequent conferences, interdisciplinary meetings, and division-led educational initiatives 3.
Application Process
Applications are processed through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and require submission of several documents including a personal statement, curriculum vitae, and four letters of recommendation. Stronger candidates often include detailed personal motivations for pursuing this fellowship, particularly focusing on how the program aligns with their professional goals 8. Furthermore, the program considers applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, including international medical graduates and DOs, making it relatively IMG-friendly 1.
Visa Sponsorship
Fellows requiring visa sponsorship may find support through the program. Generally, the program is capable of sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas for eligible fellows, catering to diverse cohorts from both domestic and international backgrounds 8.
Benefits
The benefits offered include competitive salaries based on PGY levels, comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development support with a focus on fostering research pursuits. The salary structure for fellows progresses annually, ranging from approximately $86,446 for PGY-3 to $117,776 for PGY-10. Each fellow is allocated an educational stipend of $1,500, granting access to necessary resources for professional growth and development in their respective fields 4.5.
Current Fellows and Alumni
The fellowship is proud of its successful alumni who have attained prestigious positions within academia, private practice, and military medicine worldwide. An overview of recent alumni indicates a successful track record in securing fellowships in electrophysiology, imaging, and faculty positions across leading institutions like Duke University and Boston Children’s Hospital 2.
Website
Director
Lowell H Frank, MDDirector, Cardiology Fellowship Training Program Appointed Since March 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
28hrsFirst Year Salary:
$90,090First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
