Medical College of Georgia Program
Location:
Augusta, GASpecialty:
Interventional cardiologyACGME Code:
1521214168Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Overview
The Interventional Cardiology fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia is a one-year training opportunity designed for physicians aiming to become certified primary operators in Invasive and Interventional Cardiovascular Medicine. This fellowship complies with the standards established by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and successful trainees will achieve board eligibility for the Interventional Cardiology Board administered by the American Board of Internal Medicine 1.
Program Goals
The main goal of the training program is to deliver comprehensive subspecialty training in invasive and interventional cardiology. This is specifically tailored for physicians who have completed a residency in Internal Medicine, along with a categorical fellowship in Cardiovascular Disease Medicine. The program is continually evolving to keep pace with advancements in the field of interventional cardiology 1.
Training Environment
Trainees engage actively in clinical research within the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and collaborate with the Division of Cardiac Surgery. This multi-disciplinary approach enriches the fellow's educational experience while fostering a deeper understanding of cardiology as a whole 1.
Research Opportunities
The fellowship program offers a variety of basic and clinical research experiences. Each fellow is expected to participate in research projects that develop their skills in experimental or clinical study design. They will gain expertise in research techniques, data acquisition, and analysis, presenting their findings effectively. The program emphasizes the importance of research in advancing the field and encourages fellows to bring their projects to fruition 1.
Clinical Skills Development
Throughout the fellowship, fellows will learn to independently perform various interventional procedures, including:
- Balloon angioplasty
- Coronary stenting
- Cutting balloon angioplasty
- Directional atherectomy
- Rotational atherectomy
- Intravascular ultrasound
- Intra-aortic balloon pump insertion, operation, and troubleshooting
- Impella device management
- Tandem heart insertion and management
- ECMO initiation and management
- Trans-radial and trans-brachial access for coronary angiography and intervention
- Intracoronary Doppler flow analysis
- Fractional flow reserve determination
Fellows will also gain experience in the medical and interventional management of valvular heart diseases such as aortic stenosis and mitral regurgitation. Opportunities to participate in transcatheter aortic valve replacement procedures will be available as well 1.
Program Structure and Slots
The program offers a single slot annually for the one-year fellowship. This competitive nature requires all applicants to have completed a three-year Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program prior to starting in the Interventional Cardiology fellowship 1.
Application Process
Applications are accepted exclusively through the ERAS system. The application period opens in December of each year. Applicants must submit the following documents via ERAS:
- ERAS Application
- Three Letters of Recommendation (one recommended from the program director)
- Personal Statement
- Medical School Transcript
- Medical Student Performance Evaluation / Dean's Letter
- Color Photograph
- ECFMG Status Report (for International Medical Graduates only)
- USMLE Transcript - Transmitted by the NBME
This structured application process ensures that only the most qualified candidates are selected for this competitive fellowship 1.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$72,340First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
Augusta, GA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
About Living in Augusta, GA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Augusta has a moderate crime rate compared to national averages. Like any city, there are safe areas and neighborhoods to consider when choosing housing.
- Fun Activities: Augusta is known for the Masters Tournament, which attracts golf enthusiasts from around the world. The city also offers outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and visiting the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area.
- Climate: Augusta has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity in the summer months.
- Races and Population: Augusta has a diverse population with various races and ethnicities. It offers a mix of cultural experiences and opportunities for community engagement.
- Education: Augusta is home to Augusta University, offering educational and research opportunities. There are also public and private schools in the area for families with children.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Augusta is generally lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
- Proximity to Major Cities: Atlanta is approximately 2 hours away from Augusta by car. Atlanta offers a wide range of cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities that residents can explore on weekends or for special events.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse population, proximity to Atlanta for additional amenities.
- Cons: Moderate crime rate in some areas, high humidity in summer.
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