Ochsner Clinic Foundation Program
Location:
New Orleans, LASpecialty:
Clinical cardiac electrophysiologyACGME Code:
1542114139The Ochsner Clinic Foundation Program in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology offers a comprehensive and advanced training experience designed to cultivate expertise in cardiac arrhythmia management. This fellowship spans one to two years and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), positioning it as a highly respected program in the field.
Upon completion of the fellowship, trainees will be eligible to sit for the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Examination, an essential credential that signifies proficiency and expertise in the specialty 1.
Educational and Clinical Experience
The fellowship training occurs primarily at Ochsner Medical Center, which stands out as a 473-bed academic tertiary care referral center located in New Orleans. The center boasts a strong workforce of over 600 physicians across 80 specialties, offering a diverse and expansive patient population that encompasses southeast Louisiana and stretches as far as Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, Arkansas, and Texas 2.
The Department of Cardiology features a dedicated electrophysiology section with seven full-time electrophysiologists, including two pediatric electrophysiologists. Notably, Ochsner Medical Center was recognized as one of the top 20 hospitals nationwide for cardiology and heart surgery by U.S. News & World Report in 2012, which underscores its reputation in this medical specialty 2.
The program's training facilities include three state-of-the-art electrophysiology laboratories equipped for a variety of procedures, including complex ablations and device implants. Fellows engage in over 1500 electrophysiology cases annually, which cover a wide array of procedures like atrial flutter and SVT ablations, radiofrequency atrial fibrillation ablations, idiopathic and scar VT ablations, as well as device implantation, lead extractions, and high-risk cases 2.
The clinical training emphasizes the development of both interpretive skills and hands-on coordination techniques. Fellows receive specialized training in catheter manipulation, programmed electrical stimulation, and the interpretation of intracardiac recordings. Mentorship and clinical exposure are enhanced through rotations in inpatient and outpatient services, alongside frequent electrophysiology conferences dedicated to case analysis and electrogram review 2.
Leadership and Faculty
The educational experience is guided by a team of skilled leaders and faculty within the Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship Program. Key figures include the Chairman of the Department of Cardiology, who oversees the program, as well as several faculty members specializing in electrophysiology research and clinical practice. This multidisciplinary leadership ensures a rich intellectual environment conducive to learning and professional growth 3.
Teaching Facility
Ochsner Medical Center serves as the primary teaching facility, reinforcing its commitment to evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care. The medical center is designed to facilitate innovative research and the provision of personalized health services, presenting fellow trainees with a robust clinical setting in which to hone their skills 4.
Visa Support and Application Competitiveness
The program supports international graduates and is known for being friendly toward DO (Doctor of Osteopathy) and IMG (International Medical Graduate) applicants, making it an attractive option for diverse candidates. There may be provisions for visa sponsorship, typically providing support for J-1 or H-1B visa types, which is critical for eligible international applicants wishing to partake in this advanced training 1.
Application Requirements
Application prerequisites for the Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship may include specific requirements regarding the year of graduation from medical school or permissible maximum failures on STEP exams. Although these specifications can vary, the program generally seeks candidates with a strong clinical foundation and relevance in their training background to ensure they are well-prepared for the rigorous demands of the fellowship 1.
Website
Director
Michael L Bernard, MDProgram Director Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship Appointed Since July 2018Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$72,695First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
New Orleans, LA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in New Orleans, LA
New Orleans, LA, promises a vibrant and culturally rich living experience for residents. Here's a breakdown of living in this location:
- Crime Rate and Safety: New Orleans has a higher crime rate compared to the national average. While some neighborhoods are safer than others, it's essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
- Fun Activities: Known for its lively music scene, delicious cuisine, and Mardi Gras festivities, New Orleans offers endless entertainment options. Residents can enjoy jazz performances, explore historic French Quarter, and indulge in local Creole and Cajun dishes.
- Climate: New Orleans has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity levels during the summer months.
- Races and Population: New Orleans is a diverse city with a mix of various races and cultures, contributing to its unique charm and cultural richness.
- Education: New Orleans is home to several higher education institutions, including Tulane University and Loyola University, offering educational opportunities for residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in New Orleans is relatively lower compared to other major U.S. cities. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood, with more affordable options available in suburban areas.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: New Orleans is located about 90 miles away from Baton Rouge and 335 miles from Houston, making it fairly accessible by car. Baton Rouge is approximately a 1.5-hour drive, offering a change of scenery and additional amenities.
Considerations: While New Orleans is vibrant and culturally rich, it's important to be mindful of the higher crime rate in certain areas and the humid climate during the summer months. Residents should explore different neighborhoods to find a suitable living environment that meets their preferences and safety concerns.
Interview Questions
