McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University Program

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, is a one-year ACGME-accredited program designed to provide advanced training in the field of interventional cardiology. This program consists of two available ACGME-approved positions, beginning each year on July 1 and concluding on June 30 of the following year. Fellows engage in a rigorous curriculum that combines both extensive clinical exposure and scholarly research opportunities.

The program's catheterization laboratory is quite active, averaging approximately 1,200 interventional procedures annually. Fellows gain hands-on experience in pre-procedural planning, engaging in discussions around the indications for various interventions, and selecting the appropriate techniques and instruments necessary for each procedure. The training encompasses a vast range of clinical skills including but not limited to diagnostic coronary, peripheral, and pulmonary angiography; various forms of percutaneous intervention; and advanced techniques such as adjunctive atherectomy and thrombectomy devices.

Clinical Experience

The interventional cardiology fellowship is primarily clinical, with twelve months fully dedicated to both inpatient and outpatient experiences. During this time, fellows develop competence in essential areas like:

• Diagnostic coronary, peripheral, and pulmonary angiography.
• Perioperative management and interventional procedures, including coronary and peripheral interventions.
• Advanced techniques such as rotational, orbital, and laser atherectomy.
• Use of intravascular imaging and hemodynamic assessment tools.
• Transcatheter valve interventions and adult congenital heart disease procedures.
• Management, placement, and removal of mechanical circulatory support devices.

Additionally, fellows participate in a weekly clinical and research conference, where they are expected to present clinical cases and pertinent literature.

Research Opportunities

In conjunction with a strong clinical program, fellows are required to actively participate in a variety of research projects ranging from basic/translational studies to clinical trials. This aspect of the fellowship encourages fellows to contribute to advancements in cardiovascular medicine and develop essential research skills.

Diversity and Inclusion

Northwestern University emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that the fellowship environment supports personal and professional growth. The program actively seeks motivated fellows from diverse backgrounds, recognizing the importance of varied perspectives in addressing the complex challenges of the healthcare landscape. Resources such as the Department of Medicine Diversity Council and the Northwestern McGaw Underrepresented Residents & Fellows Forum contribute to this effort.

Requirements and Eligibility

Applicants must fulfill several eligibility criteria, including:

• Completion of or current enrollment in an ACGME-accredited general cardiology fellowship.
• Completion of a minimum of eight months in a cardiac catheterization laboratory.
• Board eligibility in cardiovascular disease.
• Full medical licensure in Illinois prior to the start of the fellowship.
• For international medical graduates, a valid visa and ECFMG certification are required.

The application process requires submission through ERAS and includes necessary documents such as a curriculum vitae, personal statement, USMLE transcripts, and letters of recommendation.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship, supporting valid visa applications for qualified international candidates, which may include J-1 and H-1B visas, thus ensuring accessibility for candidates from international medical schools.

Competitiveness

The competitiveness of the Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at Northwestern University can be categorized as highly competitive. The fellowship attracts a diverse group of applicants including graduates from both MD and DO programs, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs), who are encouraged to apply.

Why Choose Northwestern?

Training at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University not only provides exceptional educational resources but also a vibrant community situated in the heart of Chicago. The fellowship nurtures not just clinical and research skills, but also personal development in a collaborative and supportive environment.