Indiana University School of Medicine Program

The Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine aims for excellence in patient care, research, and education, operating under the vision that it is a diverse academic health enterprise dedicated to high-quality heart and vascular care.

Curriculum Overview

The program provides extensive fellowship opportunities across different sub-specialties including cardiovascular disease, clinical cardiac electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, and advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology. Training in these areas is ACGME-accredited and emphasizes both practical and theoretical components essential for cardiology specialists. This curriculum is designed to foster a comprehensive understanding of heart disease management through hands-on experience and academic learning.

Rotations

Fellows participate in program rotations across various prestigious facilities, including IU Health Methodist Hospital, University Hospital, Eskenazi Health, and the Richard L. Roudebush Indianapolis VA Medical Center. Each site serves a diverse patient population, enhancing the clinical experiences of the fellows. The first year primarily focuses on clinical cardiology immersion with opportunities in echocardiography and catheterization labs. The second year extends exposure to specialties, while the third year allows fellows to tailor their training based on personal interests and prior experiences in subfields.

Research Opportunities

The program is deeply committed to research and offers fellows avenues to engage with distinguished faculty in state-of-the-art research facilities. The Krannert Institute of Cardiology is a focal point for advancing clinical and translational research. Fellows can work with experienced mentors and gain skills in grant writing, data analysis, and presentations. Moreover, NIH T32 support and other funding mechanisms are available for fellows interested in dedicating time to research projects, nurturing the next generation of clinician-scientists.

Training Sites

Fellowship training occurs in multiple hospitals that incorporate modern clinical facilities, allowing for a wide spectrum of interventions and patient care experiences. Eskenazi Health serves an indigent population, known for high-efficiency care, while IU Health’s flagship hospitals are leading centers for complex cardiovascular care, catering to varied patient needs. The VA Hospital provides extensive care for veterans, adding richness to the fellows' clinical training.

Unique Program Attributes

The program’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is noteworthy. It embraces a broad range of backgrounds and experiences among fellows, which is considered a crucial component of the learning environment. Additionally, the division has gained an international reputation, with its faculty members holding prominent roles in cardiology organizations and contributing to major cardiovascular textbooks and journals.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is open to both US graduates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). However, it currently does not accept H1B visa sponsorship, ensuring that candidates need to be aware of the J-1 visa requirements for fellowship training. The program is highly competitive, attracting top candidates from various residencies.

Application Requirements

To apply for the fellowship programs, applicants must submit their materials through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Required documents typically include USMLE scores, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a curriculum vitae. Some specialties may have particular emphasis on recent graduation years or specific training backgrounds.

Continuing Medical Education and Collaboration

Candidates are also encouraged to engage in continuous learning opportunities offered by the Division, which provides medical education at local, regional, and national levels through conferences and specialized seminars. This environment fosters collaborative learning and enhances the educational experience for all fellows.