Mass General Brigham/Massachusetts General Hospital Program
Location:
Boston, MASpecialty:
Interventional cardiologyACGME Code:
1522421029The Interventional Cardiology Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) provides a thorough training and clinical experience aimed at developing highly skilled interventional cardiologists. This program leverages the full spectrum of diagnostic tests and non-surgical treatment options for various cardiovascular diseases, including congenital heart disease, coronary heart disease, heart valve disease, and peripheral artery disease.
BWH's Heart & Vascular Center stands out due to its high volumes of procedures, performing approximately 4,000 catheter-based interventions annually. These procedures encompass a wide array of treatments such as angioplasty and stenting alongside cutting-edge techniques like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), which is facilitated by a state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory located within the Shapiro Cardiovascular Center 1.
Clinical Training and Rotations
The program offers a robust clinical curriculum that emphasizes hands-on training through direct patient care in various specialties. Trainees work closely with board-certified interventional cardiologists who are also faculty members at Harvard Medical School, allowing fellows to engage in high-level academic discussions with leading experts in the field. This environment fosters the necessary skills for handling complex cases and performing innovative interventional techniques 1.
Research Opportunities
Research is an integral part of the interventional cardiology fellowship at BWH. The program encourages fellows to participate in both national and international clinical trials, providing a unique avenue for fellows to contribute to the advancement of interventional cardiology. This involvement not only enhances clinical skills but also enriches the fellowship experience by fostering a spirit of inquiry and innovation 1.
Unique Aspects
This fellowship's unique structure incorporates multidisciplinary collaboration, including partnerships with cardiovascular anesthesiology, radiology, endovascular surgery, cardiac surgery, and vascular surgery specialists. Such collaboration ensures comprehensive care for patients and provides fellows with a holistic understanding of cardiology. The program promotes team-based medicine, which is crucial in treating complex cardiovascular cases effectively 1.
Visa Support
The Interventional Cardiology Program at BWH supports various visa types for international medical graduates. The program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the participation of international fellows in its rigorous training. This inclusiveness enriches the fellowship's cultural diversity and broadens the fellowship's educational reach 1.
Competitiveness
Admission to the fellowship is highly competitive, attracting a wide range of applicants, including U.S. medical graduates, DOs, and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program seeks candidates who demonstrate a strong foundation in general cardiology and a commitment to advancing their skills in interventional procedures. While the program welcomes applications from IMGs, it is essential for candidates to present a solid academic record and exceptional clinical competencies 1.
Application Requirements
Prospective fellows must meet specific application requirements to ensure a suitable fit for the program. Typically, the candidates should have completed a general cardiology fellowship and must provide documentation of year of graduation. Furthermore, the program may have specific guidelines regarding the number of failed USMLE Step exams, emphasizing the importance of academic success in the selection process 1.
In summary, the Interventional Cardiology Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital offers extensive training, research opportunities, and a collaborative environment that is crucial for developing future leaders in interventional cardiology.
Website
Director
Douglas E Drachman, MDAssistant Professor of Medicine Appointed Since July 2014Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$104,500First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents 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
