Lehigh Valley Health Network Program

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship program at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) is designed to provide extensive training and experience to develop proficient interventional cardiologists. This one-year program offers a robust curriculum where fellows are exposed to a wide array of interventional procedures aimed at treating coronary artery disease. Among the techniques that fellows will learn are rotational, orbital, laser atherectomy, and intravenous lithotripsy. Additional procedures included in the training curriculum are high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), and mechanical circulatory support utilizing devices such as Impella, ProtekDuo, and ECMO.

Moreover, the fellowship allows for significant exposure to critical arterial conditions, particularly chronic total occlusions (CTO). Fellows will also participate in structural heart procedures, which include left atrial appendage closure, atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent foramen ovale (PFO) closures, as well as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). These varied experiences are crucial for developing a comprehensive skill set necessary for modern interventional cardiologists 1.

Fellows at LVHN will also have opportunities to engage in clinical trials, serving as sub-investigators on ongoing research projects. This exposure to clinical research is integral for those interested in academic medicine or pursuing a career that involves significant research in interventional cardiology 4.

Benefits and Support

The fellowship program offers numerous benefits distinct from the general graduate medical education (GME) requirements. These benefits include 14 days of paid time off, five additional days off per year, and either Christmas or New Year’s Day off. Furthermore, fellows are granted an annual five days for continuing medical education (CME) and are provided with a CardioSource Plus Institutional membership, granting access to the American College of Cardiology's comprehensive online educational resources 2.

The salary and additional benefits satisfactory to LVHN employees, residents, and fellows are provided as well, ensuring financial and professional support throughout the training 2.

Application Requirements

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship program at LVHN typically accepts two fellows annually. Candidates must have completed an ACGME- or AOA-accredited internal medicine residency program and must have passed USMLE/COMLEX Steps I, II, and III. The program supports both J-1 and H-1B visa types, thus accommodating international medical graduates (IMGs) as well 5.

While the program does not mandate prior clinical or research experience in the U.S., such credentials can significantly enhance an application. Furthermore, LVHN does not offer observerships, externships, or clinical shadowing experiences 6. All applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) 7.

Training Sites and Life in the Lehigh Valley

The Lehigh Valley is situated approximately 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 80 miles west of New York City. Known for its economic growth and quality of life, the region offers a lower cost of living compared to nearby metropolitan areas, making it an appealing choice for fellows and their families 1.

Research Opportunities and Publications

Research plays a pivotal role in the program, with all fellows required to engage in scholarly activities. This commitment can involve diverse projects like clinical research, systematic literature reviews, surveys, and qualitative research, thereby enhancing the academic foundation of the fellows 4.

International Students FAQ

According to the program guidelines, specific visa sponsorship is available for international medical graduates, which is fundamental for numerous applicants from outside the United States. Notably, clinical or research experience in the U.S. is not a prerequisite, although such experiences may strengthen an application 6.