HCA Florida Healthcare/USF Morsani College of Medicine GME - Tampa North/Citrus Hospital Program

Graduate Medical Education at HCA Florida Citrus Hospital

The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program at HCA Florida Citrus Hospital, associated with the USF Morsani College of Medicine, is designed to provide a comprehensive clinical training experience in cardiovascular disorders. The three-year fellowship is ACGME accredited, with an emphasis on preparing fellows for a career in clinical or academic cardiology. The overarching mission of the program is to cultivate the next generation of physician leaders, exemplifying HCA Healthcare's commitment to human life improvement.

Training Environment

HCA Florida Citrus Hospital is a robust healthcare facility featuring 204 beds and offering diverse medical services such as heart and vascular surgery, emergency care, and minimally invasive procedures. The hospital is located in the scenic and community-oriented town of Inverness, Florida, providing a unique balance of professional development and an enjoyable quality of life. The hospital plans to further enhance its fellowship amenities with the addition of a new SIM Lab and dedicated fellow lounges, thereby fostering a conducive environment for learning and collaboration.

Curriculum Overview

Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is structured to ensure fellows gain extensive clinical experience through a diverse range of rotations. In the first year, fellows participate in consult services, noninvasive services, and catheterization labs, allowing exposure to complex cardiovascular cases including heart failures and arrhythmias. As fellows progress into their second and third years, they delve deeper into invasive cardiology, electrophysiology, and further specialized areas according to their career aspirations.

Specific Rotational Experiences

In the first year, fellows rotate through the following core areas:

• Cardiology Consultations - 4 months
• Cardiac Intensive Care Unit - 2 months
• Noninvasive Cardiology (2D echo, ECG, Stress tests) - 3 months
• Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory - 2 months

Progressing into the second year, fellows focus on advanced clinical skills in the cardiac catheterization lab and electrophysiology, culminating with a senior year that allows for specialization in areas of choice, aiding in transition to independent practice.

Research Opportunities

A significant component of the fellowship involves engaging in quality improvement initiatives and scholarly activities. Fellows are paired with experienced mentors upon entering the program during the first year to formulate research ideas. This collaborative effort encourages publishing results in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at national conferences such as the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA).

Salary and Benefits

Fellows receive a competitive salary alongside a comprehensive benefits package which includes:

• Up to $1,000 for orientation.
• Professional memberships and conference expenses.
• Cell phone, laptop/iPad provisions.
• Board preparation resources and Step 3 reimbursement.

Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements

This fellowship program is classified as highly competitive, welcoming both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). Although the program does impose certain limits such as the maximum allowable failed STEP examinations, it actively promotes a diverse applicant pool. The fellowship does not sponsor H-1B visas but may support J-1 visas for qualified international applicants.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

The selection process emphasizes residency training in internal medicine, particularly for fellows applying for the cardiovascular disease specialty. Prospective candidates should ensure they meet comprehensive educational prerequisites and demonstrate an outstanding commitment to the field of cardiology.