George Washington University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Clinical cardiac electrophysiologyACGME Code:
1541031012The Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship at George Washington University is a prestigious ACGME-accredited program situated within the Division of Cardiology at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C. The program stands out for its commitment to training future leaders in cardiac electrophysiology through comprehensive education and hands-on clinical experience. The fellowship lasts for two years, and it is designed to prepare trainees for advanced practices in clinical cardiac electrophysiology (EP), covering all aspects of arrhythmia management including diagnostic testing, ablation procedures, and device therapies.
Each year, the program accepts one fellow, ensuring personalized attention and a tailored learning experience. The curriculum is structured to gradually increase the fellow's responsibilities in invasive procedures in the EP lab while maintaining a strong emphasis on the ethical considerations and patient-centered care essential in the field of electrophysiology. Fellows receive continuous feedback from faculty members with substantial expertise in various areas of arrhythmia treatment and management, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Training Environment
The primary training site for the fellowship is the GW Hospital, a multidisciplinary, tertiary care hospital located in the vibrant heart of Washington, D.C. GW Hospital has been recognized as one of the best hospitals in the region, providing fellows with access to cutting-edge medical technologies and a diverse patient population, including veterans, dignitaries, and local residents.
Additionally, fellows rotate at the Washington VA Medical Center, which offers an advanced heart center and specialized programs for managing structural heart disease and arrhythmias. This unique dual-site training process allows fellows to cultivate their skills and gain diverse clinical experiences that are vital for their future careers.
Rotations and Hands-On Experience
The fellowship features a flexibility in rotations, typically lasting one month, allowing fellows to focus on specific areas of interest within electrophysiology. The EP lab at GW is outfitted with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced 3D mapping systems, intracardiac echocardiography, and various ablation modalities.
Fellows will be actively involved in a number of procedures, including atrial fibrillation and ventricular ablation, pacemaker implantations, and cardiac resynchronization therapy. The close proximity of the EP lab to surgical and cath lab settings allows for an integrated approach to patient care, facilitating teamwork among specialists.
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship, with active projects focusing on the development of new technologies and innovative treatments in the field of cardiac electrophysiology. Fellows are encouraged to engage in ongoing research initiatives, providing opportunities to publish findings and present at national conferences. Collaboration with the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences enhances this research curriculum, merging clinical applications with engineering advancements.
Service Aspects
The fellowship includes a unique annual medical mission to Honduras, where fellows participate in clinical care for underserved populations. This experience not only provides valuable service opportunities but also helps fellows build long-lasting professional relationships and gain perspectives on global health issues.
Visa Support and Requirements
The program specifically supports international applicants with J1 visas, enabling qualified international medical graduates to apply. The fellowship program requires completion of three years in an ACGME-accredited Internal Medicine residency prior to fellowship, alongside required documentation such as USMLE/COMLEX scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Competitiveness and Selection Criteria
The Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship program at GW University is recognized as highly competitive, attracting top candidates from a diverse medical background. International medical graduates (IMGs) are encouraged to apply; however, candidates must hold ECFMG certification. Furthermore, past failed exams on the USMLE steps may count against applicants, as prospective fellows must meet strict examination requirements.
Website
Director
Marco Mercader, MDDirector, Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship Prgm Appointed Since November 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,511First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Washington, DC
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Living in Washington, DC
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- 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.
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