Mass General Brigham/Brigham and Women's Hospital Program
Location:
Boston, MASpecialty:
Advanced heart failure and transplant cardiologyACGME Code:
1592414015The Brigham and Women's Hospital Program in Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology at Mass General Brigham is designed to train physicians in the management of complex heart failure cases and heart transplantation. This fellowship program provides comprehensive training, combining clinical experience with academic rigor and research opportunities in a multidisciplinary environment.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is structured to ensure that fellows acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in advanced heart failure management and transplant cardiology. The training is divided into clinical rotations, didactic educational sessions, and research, allowing for a balanced approach to training.
Clinical Rotations
Fellows will rotate through various clinical specialties, including:
- Cardiac Transplantation: Involvement in pre- and post-operative management, with exposure to surgical procedures and long-term follow-up care.
- Ventricular Assist Devices (VAD): Training on the implantation, management, and follow-up care of patients receiving mechanical circulatory support.
- Advanced Heart Failure: Management of patients with end-stage heart disease, aiding in pharmacotherapy and non-invasive techniques.
- Research Opportunities: Fellows are encouraged to participate in ongoing clinical trials and translational research aimed at improving treatment strategies for heart failure.
Research and Innovation
The program emphasizes research as a cornerstone of the fellowship experience. Fellows will engage in innovative projects that could include:
- Mechanisms of heart failure
- Improvement of transplant rejection rates
- Cutting-edge therapies such as gene therapy and stem cell interventions.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology Program at Brigham and Women's Hospital holds several unique features:
- Multidisciplinary Team: The program integrates multiple specialties including cardiology, surgery, radiology, nursing, social work, and nutrition to provide comprehensive patient care.
- Largest Cardiac Transplant Program in New England: Providing trainees access to a wide variety of complex cases, ensuring a robust training experience.
- Innovative Research Initiatives: The program is known for its groundbreaking research including advancements in mechanical devices and transplantation techniques, such as fully magnetically levitated left ventricular assist devices (LVADs).
Training Sites
Training is primarily conducted at Brigham and Women's Hospital, a leader in cardiac care, throughout various associated Mass General Brigham healthcare facilities. This collaboration provides fellows with access to a diverse patient population.
Application and Admission Criteria
The fellowship program is highly competitive, welcoming applications from both MDs and DOs, including International Medical Graduates (IMG) as long as they meet specific application criteria:
- Applicants are typically required to have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program in internal medicine or a related field.
- The program looks favorably on candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to cardiology and have research experience.
- Graduates from medical school should typically have graduated within the last five years, though exceptions may apply.
- There is a maximum limit on failures in the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) or COMLEX (Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination), and applicants must have passed all required exams on the first or second attempt.
Visa Sponsorship
The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates. Common visa types sponsored include:
- J-1 Visa for exchange visitors
- H-1B Visa for specialized occupation
The program provides assistance to fellows navigating visa applications and requirements to streamline the process.
Support and Resources
Additionally, fellows have access to extensive resources throughout the Mass General Brigham system, which includes mentorship programs, educational workshops, and opportunities for networking and collaboration with leading experts in the field.
Website
Director
Neal K Lakdawala, MD, MScProgram Director Appointed Since November 2017Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$104,500First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Boston, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Boston, MA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Boston has a relatively higher crime rate compared to some other cities in the U.S., especially in certain neighborhoods. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Boston is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant arts scene. Residents can enjoy visiting historical sites, museums, theaters, parks, and various festivals throughout the year.
- Climate: Boston experiences all four seasons with cold winters and hot summers. Be prepared for snowfall in the winter and humidity in the summer.
- Races and Population: Boston is a diverse city with a mix of races and cultures among its population. Residents can experience a lively multicultural atmosphere.
- Education: Boston is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Harvard University and MIT. Residents have access to top-notch educational opportunities.
- Cost of Living: Boston is known for its relatively high cost of living, especially when it comes to housing and healthcare. It's advisable to budget carefully to manage expenses.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Boston is located approximately 4 hours drive from New York City. New York City offers a different urban experience with its own cultural attractions, dining scene, and entertainment options.
- Pros: Rich history, cultural diversity, top educational institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: High cost of living, higher crime rate in certain areas.
Interview Questions
