Mount Sinai Medical Center of Florida Program

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Program at Mount Sinai Medical Center provides a comprehensive one-year training experience dedicated to cultivating skilled interventional cardiologists. The facility is renowned as the largest private, independent, non-profit teaching hospital in South Florida, uniquely positioned to serve a diverse patient population from local communities as well as international patients from the Caribbean and Latin America 1.

Program Overview

The fellowship is fully accredited by the ACGME and strictly adheres to the guidelines set forth by the American College of Cardiology (COCATS) 1. The curriculum encompasses both clinical training and procedural experience, allowing fellows to master a wide range of percutaneous coronary intervention techniques and other advanced cardiovascular procedures.

Goals and Mission

The core mission of the program is to ensure that fellows become proficient in clinical knowledge, procedural skills, clinical judgment, professionalism, and interpersonal communication 1. By the end of the fellowship, participants will be equipped to pass board certification examinations and practice independently in the field of interventional cardiology.

Curriculum and Rotations

Fellows benefit from a structured curriculum focusing on various aspects of cardiology, including:

• Diagnosis and management of coronary artery disease
• Management of peripheral artery disease
• Abnormalities of the heart valves
• Cardiomyopathy and other forms of heart diseases
• Understanding the indications, limitations, and complications associated with interventional procedures

Fellows will receive supervised training in both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and will engage in learning through both didactics and hands-on practice 1.

Training Environment

The program is directly supported by highly qualified faculty members from the Division of Cardiology, many of whom have academic ties with Columbia University 1. This collaborative environment not only offers extensive mentorship opportunities but also fosters professional growth as fellows prepare to become leaders in the field.

Research Opportunities

Research is a fundamental component of the fellowship, allowing fellows to engage in innovative projects that can lead to presentations and publications. Faculty support is readily available for fellows interested in pursuing research avenues, helping them contribute to the advancement of interventional cardiology 1.

Visa Support

The program exclusively sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates. Candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in Internal Medicine and a Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship in the United States prior to entering the program. However, the program does not sponsor H-1 or O-1 visa types, nor will it convert H-1 visas to J-1 for separate candidates 1.

Application Process

Each year, the program offers two fellowship positions. Applications are accepted solely through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Prospective fellows must submit the following documents:

• ERAS Application
• Official Medical School Transcript
• USMLE Transcripts (steps 1 & 2)
• Personal Statement
• Three letters of recommendation (one must come from the Cardiovascular Fellowship Program Director)

Additionally, candidates need to clarify their visa status when applying, ensuring it is definitive 1.

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The program is regarded as highly competitive. Only well-qualified applicants will be considered, and the candidates' performance in prior medical training, including a strong passing rate on USMLE steps, will be crucial for selection. Potential applicants need to ensure they meet any specific prerequisites and comply with guidelines concerning their prior training and visa eligibility 1.

Interviews

Once the application materials have been reviewed, the selection committee will extend interview invitations via email, primarily during the months of January and February. This structured interview process allows for direct engagement between prospective fellows and faculty, enhancing mutual understanding and alignment of goals 1.