Duke University Hospital Program

The Duke Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship program is dedicated to training future leaders in the field of Pediatric Cardiology, equipping them to deliver expert care for patients suffering from congenital and acquired heart diseases. The program prioritizes not just clinical training but also research, fostering a lifetime of inquiry among its fellows. The diverse faculty boasts extensive experience across various subspecialties within pediatric cardiology, which enhances the learning experience of the fellows.

Key strengths of the program are highlighted as follows:

• Interventional catheterization
• Electrophysiology
• Non-invasive imaging technologies including cardiac MRI and CT
• Fetal cardiology
• Management of adult congenital heart disease
• Heart failure and cardiac transplantation
• Health care delivery and outcomes research
• Molecular biology and translational investigation

Duke Children’s Hospital has achieved recognition, ranking #4 in the United States for Pediatric Cardiology and Heart Surgery according to U.S. News & World Report for 2024-25, emphasizing the program's quality and comprehensive training environment 1.

The fellowship spans three years, with a structure designed to include a minimum of 24 months in clinical training and 12 months dedicated to research activities. All fellows receive training in patient care and introductory clinical research skills, with options for both basic science training and advanced clinical research training available 1.

Program Overview

Details of the program include:

• Positions Offered per Year: Three
• Program Duration: Three years
• Accrediting Body: American Board of Pediatrics, Sub-board of Pediatric Cardiology
• Match Participation: Yes

The program encourages potential fellows to explore their opportunities for growth and achievement at Duke, clearly demonstrating the supportive environment that foster professional satisfaction 1.

Current and Past Fellows

The fellowship hosts a diverse body of fellows, each coming from various prestigious institutions, which enriches the collaborative environment. Current fellows include individuals from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Vanderbilt University and others 2. Past fellows have also notably contributed to the program and the field through innovative research and specialized experiences. For example, some have engaged in significant research initiatives and even pursued dual degrees that broadened their expertise 5.

Faculty

The program boasts an experienced faculty comprising several professionals who specialize in varied sub-disciplines of pediatrics and pediatric cardiology, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience. Faculty members are distinguished in their respective fields, providing exceptional mentorship to fellows 3.

Application Process

Applying to the Duke Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship requires applicants to have completed a residency in pediatric or medicine-pediatrics. Applications are handled through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and prospective fellows are requested to submit three letters of recommendation, one of which should be from the program director of their residency program 4.

The program promotes an inclusive application process that does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, or national origin, while also maintaining high standards for applicants.

Visa Support

The fellowship program provides visa sponsorship for eligible applicants, which is critical for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) seeking to further their training in the United States. The program typically sponsors J-1 visas, ensuring that international applicants can participate in the fellowship without administrative hindrances.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

The Duke Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship is known to be highly competitive, attracting talented applicants from various backgrounds, including U.S. graduates as well as international medical graduates. The program prioritizes candidates who have excelled during their residency training and demonstrate a strong commitment to both clinical excellence and research in pediatric cardiology. Specific criteria may include the successful completion of a three-year residency in an ACGME-accredited program or equivalent international programs 4.

Program Resources

The program offers various resources for prospective and current fellows, including a detailed fellows block schedule, information about living in Durham, NC, and aspects of graduate medical education at Duke. Such resources are pivotal in helping fellows navigate their training and community life effectively 6.