New York Presbyterian Hospital (Columbia Campus) Program

The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellowship at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Irving Medical Center (NYPH/CUIMC) is a prestigious and ACGME-accredited program established in 1991. The program is recognized as the largest adult cardiothoracic anesthesiology fellowship in New York and offers nine fellowship positions annually. With more than 2,200 open-heart surgeries performed each year, NYPH/CUIMC stands as a global leader in cardiac care, providing a challenging and highly stimulating environment for fellows to develop their skills.

Fellowship Overview

The fellowship spans a total of 12 months, commencing typically in July or August, with some flexibility for start dates. The clinical experience focuses on providing perioperative care for patients undergoing various cardiac and thoracic procedures, including open-heart surgeries, robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), transcatheter valve replacements, and lung transplants. Fellows gain experience in additional areas, such as adult congenital heart surgery and mechanical circulatory support.1

Clinical Training and Rotations

The program emphasizes hands-on training whereby fellows primarily manage their own cases while gradually assuming more responsibilities with progressive autonomy throughout the year. They also receive crucial supervision and mentorship, allowing them to prepare effectively for independent and academic practices. Within the fellowship, fellows are expected to perform transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), which receives extensive training to meet certification requirements from the National Board of Echocardiography (NBE), boasting a 100% pass rate over the last decade.1

Didactic Curriculum

The educational aspect of the fellowship incorporates a robust didactic curriculum, featuring lectures, journal clubs, and case discussions from various faculty disciplines, ensuring a comprehensive knowledge base. State-of-the-art simulation facilities further enhance learning with practical exercises that allow fellows to refine their skills in a controlled environment.1

Research Opportunities

Research is integral to the fellowship experience. The Department of Anesthesiology encourages fellows to engage in various research activities, from echo rounds and case reports to presentations at regional and national meetings. Fellows are invited to participate in ongoing clinical research projects or to develop individual research proposals under faculty mentorship. All fellows partake in quality improvement projects relevant to cardiothoracic anesthesia, contributing to their specialty's evolving knowledge base.1

Application Process and Requirements

Candidates interested in the program must have successfully completed an ACGME-accredited anesthesiology residency. The application process is coordinated through the San Francisco Match. Specific timelines for registration, application submission, interviews, and fellowship start dates detail the process for prospective fellows. While there is a competitive candidate selection process, the program actively encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds, fostering inclusivity within the field.1

Visa Support

The fellowship at NYPH/CUIMC offers sponsorship for various visa types. It commonly supports J-1 visas, as well as H-1B visas for qualified candidates. Visa sponsorship is an essential aspect of the program's commitment to attracting a diverse group of fellows who can contribute to the community.1

Diversity and Inclusivity

The program is embedded within a culture that prioritizes diversity and inclusion, establishing respectful working and learning environments. Several initiatives are in place to strengthen the commitment to equity and inclusivity, such as seminars on anti-racism and empowerment of underrepresented individuals within the community.1

Benefits

Beyond educational resources, fellows also receive an educational stipend for relevant expenses, time off, and financial support for attending regional and national conferences, enriching their educational experiences and networking capabilities.1

The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellowship at NYPH/CUIMC stands out due to its robust clinical exposure, extensive training opportunities, and supportive educational environment, making it an ideal choice for medical professionals aspiring to specialize in this dynamic field.