Henry Ford Health/Henry Ford Hospital Program

The Henry Ford Hospital offers a one-year, ACGME-accredited fellowship in Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology. This program is designed for two qualified fellows each year who seek advanced training in the specialized field of cardiothoracic anesthesia. The program aims to cultivate future leaders in cardiothoracic anesthesia and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) through robust clinical exposure and academic mentorship.

Training in this fellowship involves a comprehensive curriculum with a strong didactic component that includes weekly sessions focusing on intra-operative TEE and advanced topics relevant to cardiothoracic anesthesia and critical care. Furthermore, informal TEE rounds facilitate the enhancement of practical TEE skills which are vital for clinical practice. Fellows also partake in resident education, conducting Problem-Based Learning Discussions (PBLDs) for residents who are rotating in cardiac anesthesia, thereby reinforcing their own learning while also contributing to the education of others.

Fellows in this program experience a diverse range of surgical procedures, as the Henry Ford Hospital Cardiothoracic Surgery Division conducts around five hundred open-heart surgeries annually, encompassing procedures such as heart and lung transplantation, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, adult congenital surgery, and ventricular assist device placement. Moreover, the fellows engage with a leading structural heart program that offers advanced interventions, including transcatheter aortic valve replacements and other innovative techniques. Exposure to a high-volume electrophysiology service complements the clinical training, where fellows witness complex procedures and their anesthesia management.

The program's faculty comprises highly experienced cardiothoracic anesthesiologists who are committed to clinical excellence and education. Each faculty member possesses extensive experience in TEE, ensuring that fellows receive top-tier training in both clinical skills and academic knowledge.

Application Process

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must be graduates of an ACGME-accredited Anesthesiology Residency Program and submit their applications through the San Francisco Match system. Required application components include a curriculum vitae (CV), personal statement, three letters of reference, official USMLE score reports, medical school transcripts, and a valid ECFMG certificate, along with proof of visa status if applicable. The program carefully reviews all applications, and successful candidates will receive invitations for interviews post review.

Visa Support

The program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa types for eligible international medical graduates (IMGs). This visa support is crucial for IMGs looking to train in cardiothoracic anesthesiology, allowing them to participate in the program.

Competitiveness

The fellowship is highly competitive, drawing a diverse range of applicants. Both MD and DO candidates are welcome to apply, and the program values both tracks equally. International medical graduates are also encouraged to apply, making the program friendly towards DOs and IMGs while maintaining a rigorous selection process.

Special Application Requirements

Candidates should note that there may be specific requirements regarding year of graduation and limitations on the number of times the USMLE can be failed for consideration. These details are best confirmed directly via the program's contact points during the application process.