MedStar Health Georgetown University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Interventional cardiologyACGME Code:
1521011127The MedStar Health—Georgetown/Washington Hospital Center Fellowship Program in Interventional Cardiology is a prestigious two-year training program located in Washington, D.C. This highly competitive fellowship is structured to provide exceptional training and profound research opportunities aimed at developing experts in the field of interventional cardiology.
Program Overview
The program is established within the MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute, which is recognized nationally for its innovative treatment methods and high-volume cardiac programs. Fellows are educated in various competencies necessary for a successful career in interventional cardiology, including procedural skills, clinical judgment, and interpersonal skills. Each fellow is expected to engage in medical knowledge acquisition, professionalism, and systems management, which are foundational components of the training.
Curriculum
The curriculum is divided into two distinct years. The first year focuses on research opportunities, where fellows join collaborative teams responsible for advancing knowledge in interventional cardiology. An active animal lab enhances the educational experience, providing hands-on exposure to angio-graphic facilities and the opportunity to contribute to an impressive publication output.
In the second year, fellows engage in intensive clinical training within the dedicated cath labs at the MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute. This year is characterized by high volumes of clinical cases, with over 10,000 cardiac catheterizations performed annually, enabling fellows to gain experience in a wide variety of interventional procedures, including complex surgeries related to structural heart disease.
Training Facilities
The training sites include advanced cardiac cath labs equipped for both routine and complex procedures. Facilities are operational around the clock, accepting a significant patient influx through both helicopter and ground transport methods. This comprehensive setup ensures that fellows receive quality exposure and experience tailored to their learning needs.
Clinical Experience
Fellows gain supervised clinical experience in various conditions such as coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, and adult congenital heart disease. Additionally, there is an emphasis on participation in a research outpatient clinic as well as general interventional and peripheral clinic activities defined by ACGME standards.
Educational Conferences
The program values continuous education, featuring a robust schedule of conferences. Weekly meetings cover a range of important topics in interventional cardiology, including complex procedures, film reviews, biostatistics lectures, and journal clubs. These venues provide fellows with opportunities to interact with faculty and peers in a collaborative learning environment.
Research Opportunities
The program encourages fellows to present their findings at various prestigious national and international conferences. Events such as the CRT and other cardiovascular symposia are avenues for fellows to showcase their research, fostering a culture of academic excellence.
Faculty and Mentoring
The fellowship benefits from a faculty-to-fellow ratio of 3:1, allowing for individualized mentorship and learning experiences. Fellows are actively involved in training medical residents and general cardiology fellows, which enriches their educational journey and fosters interprofessional relationships.
Visa and Application Information
The program is friendly to both DO and IMG applicants, offering visa sponsorship for various types of visas, including J-1 and H-1B visas. Applicants should check for specific requirements related to the year of graduation and any limitations on failed STEP exam attempts, as these factors could influence eligibility.
Program Evaluation
Fellow feedback is crucial, and the program has implemented a robust evaluation process encompassing periodic clinical meetings and web-based assessments that align with ACGME and ABIM standards. This ensures continual improvement of the program and addresses fellows’ individual needs effectively.
Website
Director
Itsik Ben-Dor, MDProgram Director, Interventional Cardiology fellowship program Appointed Since July 2021 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$88,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
