New York Presbyterian Hospital (Cornell Campus) Program

The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship program at Weill Cornell Medical College and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital offers a robust three to four-year training experience tailored for highly qualified individuals aiming for careers in investigative and clinical cardiology. The program is designed to not only impart clinical knowledge but also to engage fellows in significant research activities, making it a comprehensive training environment for those seeking to excel in the cardiology field.

Program Overview

Situated at one of the top medical institutions in the nation, the program benefits from both clinical and research affiliations with the adjacent Hospital for Special Surgery. The area surrounding the hospital is renowned for being a significant hub for biomedical research, including esteemed institutions like the Rockefeller Institute and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, thereby enhancing research opportunities available to fellows. The fellowship's structure emphasizes a well-rounded training approach that intertwines deep clinical exposure with rigorous research involvement. The initial years are primarily dedicated to clinical training, while the latter years focus on subspecialties or advanced research methodologies.

Clinical Experience

Clinical rotations are diverse and thorough. During the first two years, fellows will rotate through the cardiac intensive care units, the inpatient consultation service at both NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and the Hospital for Special Surgery, as well as specialized areas like the electrophysiology lab, echocardiography, and the catheterization lab. Fellows are ensured extensive hands-on experience alongside attentive supervision from senior faculty, which facilitates a rich learning environment.

Each fellow is expected to contribute actively to research initiatives, culminating in presentations at major conferences. Fellows have access to a variety of clinical resources and cases, with a robust emphasis on learning through direct patient care.

Rotations and Training Structure

During the first two years, specific clinical rotations include:

• Cardiac Catheterization (2 months)
• Echocardiography (1.5 months)
• Nuclear Cardiology (1 month)
• Electrophysiology (1 month)
• Coronary Care Unit (1 month)
• Telemetry Unit (1 month)
• Consultations (1 month)

The subsequent years provide opportunities for concentrated research efforts in chosen subspecialties, which may include interventional cardiology or electrophysiology. Each fellow is paired with an experienced mentor who supports their individual research interests.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship promotes rigorous research engagements, tying together individual research pursuits with ongoing departmental projects. Trainees involved in basic science or translational research can opt to pursue a master's degree in science, typically during their second or third years. Clinical research-oriented fellows are encouraged to engage in the clinical investigation certificate program. Research conducted can span various domains of cardiovascular study, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, heart failure, and vascular physiology. The program prides itself on having faculty engaged extensively in groundbreaking research initiatives; about 70% of faculty members are involved in either basic or clinical research.

Application Requirements

The program is highly competitive, welcoming applications from both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). As part of the selection criteria, candidates should demonstrate substantial research experience and must hold valid ECFMG certification if applicable. Though there is no stringent board score requirement, a higher score enhances an applicant’s prospects. The program offers J-1 visas for international applicants; however, H-1B visas are not supported.

Benefits and Living Arrangements

Fellows enjoy numerous benefits, including health and life insurance, 20 paid vacation days, and access to various clinical meal programs. Additionally, the program offers a supportive community for living in New York City, with housing arrangements in modern facilities nearby the hospital.