George Washington University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Interventional cardiologyACGME Code:
1521021006Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Overview
The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences is a one-year ACGME-accredited subspecialty program located in Washington, D.C. It is designed to recruit two fellows annually for advanced training. This fellowship provides comprehensive exposure to a diverse range of acute and chronic cardiovascular disorders through extensive hands-on training in the cardiac catheterization laboratories at both George Washington University Hospital and Adventist Hospital.
The clinical training encompasses a range of sophisticated interventional procedures, including complex coronary interventions in cases of acute coronary syndrome and stable coronary artery disease, endovascular management for peripheral arterial disease, and percutaneous interventions for structural heart diseases such as transfemoral aortic valve replacement (TAVR), Mitral Clip, as well as closure techniques for patent foramen ovale (PFO) and atrial septal defects (ASD). Additionally, fellows are trained in right heart catheterizations, valvuloplasties, percutaneous ventricular assist devices, and endomyocardial biopsies.
1Clinical Responsibility and Training
Fellows engage actively in STEMI call coverage at the primary PCI center at George Washington University Hospital. They participate in weekly cardiac catheterization conferences, providing discussions on indications, contraindications, and complications regarding a multitude of complex coronary, peripheral, and structural cases. The training paradigm emphasizes direct supervision with ongoing evaluation and constructive feedback from faculty members, fostering the development of ACGME core competencies including clinical knowledge, procedural skills, clinical judgment, professionalism, and interpersonal communication.
1Application Requirements
Eligibility for the fellowship necessitates that applicants should be graduates of an ACGME-accredited cardiovascular medicine program and should be board-certified or board-eligible in cardiology. Applications will be accepted starting in July 2024 through the ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service), with the intended start date for training set for July 2025.
The competitive nature of the application process reflects the program's esteemed reputation, drawing candidates from diverse backgrounds, including U.S. graduates, international medical graduates (IMGs), and Osteopathic (DO) graduates. Specific application requirements include passing USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3, alongside an emphasis on strong letters of recommendation, particularly one from the program director of the internal medicine fellowship.
1Visa Support
The program sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates. Only candidates with J-1 visa status are eligible to apply for the fellowship. Applicants must complete their residency training in an ACGME-accredited program to meet the requirements for the visa sponsorship.
1Unique Program Aspects
The interventional cardiology fellowship is characterized by a collaborative learning environment, underscored by a faculty committed to one-on-one mentorship. The fellows are not just attendees but integral participants in research activities contributing to the advancement of cardiology. In addition, alumni frequently present scholarly work at national and regional forums, thereby establishing a strong academic footprint in the field of interventional cardiology.
The program also boasts a robust research infrastructure, allowing fellows to engage in ongoing projects focusing on advanced interventional techniques and outcomes, thus enhancing their clinical acumen while also contributing to the body of knowledge in the field.
1Rotational Opportunities
Fellows enjoy diverse training experiences during their fellowship year. Key components of training include hands-on rotations within the cardiac catheterization lab and various units including the coronary care unit, vascular medicine, and multi-modality imaging such as echocardiography and cardiac CT. The balance of clinical experience and structured didactics ensures they become adept at managing complex clinical decision-making in real-time.
1Competitiveness and Community
The fellowship program is known for its competitive admissions. It seeks candidates who not only display exemplary academic prowess but also exhibit fundamental interpersonal skills suitable for the teamwork-based environment characteristic of modern cardiology practice. The emphasis on community engagement and public health initiatives in cardiovascular medicine reflects GW's commitment to both local and national health issues, recognizing the broader implications of cardiology beyond immediate patient care.
1Website
Director
Ramesh Mazhari, MD, MHSDirector, Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Program Appointed Since October 2014Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$84,376First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
7XResidents 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
