Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) offers an extensive three-year program designed to equip fellows with comprehensive clinical and academic training in cardiovascular medicine. The program is structured to cover all facets of both noninvasive and invasive cardiovascular practices, while also integrating substantial teaching and research opportunities for fellows.

As a component of the Heart & Vascular Center, the fellowship aims to provide expert coordinated patient care, education, and research across various cardiovascular disciplines, including cardiovascular critical care, vascular surgery, and cardiac surgery. The program places a strong emphasis on developing skilled clinicians who are not only capable of providing specialty care but are also ethical practitioners and lifelong learners within the medical community. The curriculum is designed to foster competence in clinicians through rigorous academic training, preparing fellows for successful careers in clinical practice, education, and research 1.

Training and Rotations

Fellows primarily conduct their training at the main DHMC campus located in Lebanon, New Hampshire. In addition to core clinical experiences, fellows also spend approximately two months annually at the nearby Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center in White River Junction, Vermont, where they gain exposure to inpatient and outpatient consultative cardiovascular medicine. The rotations include multi-modality imaging training involving nuclear cardiology, cardiac MRI, CT, and echocardiography, thereby enabling fellows to develop a robust skill set in diagnostic cardiovascular imaging 1.

Curriculum

The fellowship curriculum comprehensively covers both theoretical and practical aspects of cardiovascular disease management. This includes advanced study in areas such as heart failure, electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, and preventive cardiology. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for involvement in clinical research, providing fellows with avenues to contribute to and expand the body of knowledge in cardiovascular medicine 1.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship actively encourages participation in research through collaboration with notable institutions such as the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. The program supports fellows in pursuing research interests that align with their career goals, leveraging the academic resources available at DHMC and the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice 1.

Application Process

The application process for the fellowship begins in July, with interviews occurring between September and October. Applicants must submit a completed ERAS application package, including a personal statement, curriculum vitae, medical school transcript, Dean's letter, and three letters of recommendation. It is important to note that for foreign national physicians, a valid certificate from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) is required for eligibility. The program accepts applicants with J1 visas and those who hold H1-B visas 1.

Diversity and Inclusion

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center is strongly committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for its fellows, staff, and patients. The fellowship believes that diversity enhances innovation and creates a welcoming atmosphere, promoting collaboration and learning within the community. Continuous efforts are being made to address diversity, equity, and inclusion through various initiatives within the program 3.

Fellowship Leadership

The fellowship is led by a dedicated team comprised of experienced faculty members who are residents' advocates and mentors. The leadership includes individuals with varied backgrounds and extensive expertise in cardiovascular medicine, ensuring that fellows receive high-quality education and mentorship throughout their training 5.

Living in the Upper Valley

The Upper Connecticut River Valley, which includes the towns of Hanover and Lebanon, is renowned for its natural beauty and recreational offerings. Fellows enjoy access to a plethora of year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and skiing, as well as cultural experiences unique to the area. The compelling quality of life in this region complements the rigorous training regimen, providing fellows with an enriching and balanced lifestyle 1.