Parkview Medical Center Program

The UCHealth Parkview Cardiology Fellowship Program is designed to cultivate exceptional cardiovascular specialists through a comprehensive educational approach. This program emphasizes the provision of excellent patient care and aims to produce fellows who are not only proficient in cardiovascular medicine but also display empathy towards patients.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the program is to deliver outstanding healthcare services to Southeastern Colorado, with a vision to establish itself as a premier fellowship in the Western United States. The focus lies on continuous quality improvement and remarkable graduate medical education, aiming to prepare fellows for future challenges in cardiology.

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship spans three years, during which robust clinical training is provided predominantly within the first two years. The structure allocates significant emphasis on clinical, consultative, and procedural skills development. A unique aspect involves a dedicated continuity outpatient clinic experience held once a week, offering fellows a chance to nurture long-term patient relationships.

During the third year, fellows pursue individualized academic or research interests, having the flexibility to spend four elective months tailored to their career aspirations. Research activities are encouraged, allowing fellows to dedicate time either concurrently with clinical duties or in blocks.

Clinical Rotations

The clinical schedule for the fellowship is arranged as follows:

First Year Fellows

• 3 months - Consultative service
• 3 months - CCU
• 2 months - Echo/Nuclear
• 2 months - Cath
• 1 month - Arrhythmia service
• 1 month - Vacation

Second Year Fellows

• 1 month - Consultative service
• 1 month - CCU
• 2 months - Cath
• 2 months - Echo/Nuclear
• 3 months - Arrhythmia service
• 1 month - Advanced HF (University of Colorado)
• 1 month - Vacation

Third Year Fellows

• 1 month - Consultative service
• 1 month - CCU
• 2 months - Cath
• 2 months - Echo/Nuclear
• 1 month – Outpatient
• 1 month – Heart failure transplant
• 2 months – Elective
• 1 month – Vacation

This detailed structure enables fellows to gain essential skills across different aspects of cardiology.

Teaching Methods

The fellowship prioritizes academic rigor through diverse teaching methodologies, including:

• Bedside rounds
• Formal lectures
• Sub-specialty conferences
• Journal clubs
• Grand rounds
• Research presentations

These teaching methods are tailored to ensure fellows receive a broad educational experience, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future practices.

Research Opportunities

Research is a core component of the fellowship. Each fellow is encouraged to engage in meaningful research experiences, supported by attending faculty. By the end of the fellowship, fellows are expected to demonstrate research productivity, which may include publications or presentations at national meetings. This emphasis on research not only enriches the fellows' educational experience but also prepares them for potential academic careers.

Visa Support

The fellowship program offers sponsorship primarily for J-1 visas, which are considered on a case-by-case basis through ECFMG. This visa support is particularly beneficial for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking a comprehensive training experience in the United States.

Application Requirements

To apply for the UCHealth Parkview Cardiology Fellowship, candidates must submit their applications through ERAS. The program accepts both DO and MD graduates. Notably, applications from DOs and IMGs are welcomed, making this program relatively friendly for candidates from diverse medical backgrounds. However, some specific application requirements may include stipulations regarding the year of graduation and any limitations concerning failed STEP exams.

Competitiveness

The UCHealth Parkview Cardiology Fellowship Program is considered highly competitive, with a rigorous selection process that aims to identify candidates who not only demonstrate clinical excellence but also possess a strong commitment to the field of cardiovascular medicine.