Henry Ford St. John Hospital Program

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital is an ACGME-accredited program that provides advanced training for physicians who have completed a three-year general cardiology fellowship. The fellowship is designed to enhance clinical skills and knowledge in interventional cardiology, allowing fellows to perform a spectrum of complex procedures and manage complex cardiac patients.

Duration and Structure

The fellowship lasts for one year and accepts three fellows annually. Training includes extensive exposure to a wide range of procedures such as complex coronary interventions, peripheral vascular interventions, myocardial biopsy performance, and various structural heart procedures including transcatheter interventions.

Curriculum and Training

During the fellowship, trainees will participate in numerous rotations, working with a dedicated team of interventional cardiologists. The curriculum covers a comprehensive set of skills and procedures, including:

• Complex coronary interventions
• Peripheral vascular interventions
• Mechanisms of structural heart treatments, including PFO/ASD/VSD closures
• Transcatheter aortic and mitral valvuloplasty
• Alcohol septal ablation
• Balloon atrial septostomy
• Management of hemodynamic support systems

As part of the training, fellows will not only participate in procedures but also engage in ongoing research projects, contributing to the academic mission of the institution. Each fellow is mentored closely by faculty cardiologists, who are active leaders in the field, ensuring that trainees receive the highest quality education and support.

Clinical Exposure

Henry Ford Hospital is a major tertiary referral center, providing fellows with exposure to a diverse patient population across a wide array of cardiovascular conditions. The hospital system, which includes multiple facilities in the region, is well-equipped to manage complex cases referred from other institutions. This creates a robust learning environment, where fellows manage patients experiencing acute cardiac events, perform high-risk procedures, and participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for patient care.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellows to engage in clinical research, offering numerous opportunities to participate in ongoing studies. Fellows are expected to complete a research project during their training, with access to resources including paid statistical support and mentorship from seasoned researchers.

Visa Sponsorship

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital supports J1 and H1B visas for applicable candidates. This ensures that international medical graduates can apply and participate in this prestigious training program without visa-related hindrances.

Application Process

Applicants must have completed a three-year general cardiology fellowship prior to application. The application process occurs through the ERAS system, with specific submission deadlines and interview timelines. The fellowship program is competitive and is open to DO and IMG candidates, reflecting a commitment to diversity and inclusion in its cohort.

Unique Aspects of the Program

1. **High Procedural Volume**: The program benefits from a high volume of procedures thanks to the large network of hospitals and referral centers in the region, ensuring extensive hands-on experience for fellows.

2. **Simulated Heart Failure Cases**: Training includes simulated sessions for complex procedural scenarios, enhancing readiness for real-world applications.

3. **Support for Personal and Professional Growth**: The fellowship emphasizes the well-being of fellows, offering a supportive training environment with robust mentorship and guidance throughout the educational experience.