St Vincent Hospital Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
Cardiovascular diseaseACGME Code:
1412421239Program Overview
The Cardiology Fellowship at Saint Vincent Hospital provides an intellectually stimulating environment designed to train the next generation of leaders in cardiovascular care. This ACGME-accredited program emphasizes both general cardiology and interventional cardiology, combining comprehensive clinical training with innovative educational approaches.
Fellows gain valuable experience through extensive clinical rotations in state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced cardiac catheterization laboratories that feature the latest in hybrid catheterization capabilities. Additionally, fellows have access to a non-invasive echocardiography lab where various echocardiographic techniques are performed, such as 2-D and 3-D studies, transesophageal echocardiograms (TEEs), and exercise and dobutamine stress echocardiography.
Integration into a busy inpatient consult service complements the educational experience, allowing fellows to actively engage in complex cardiac cases and interdisciplinary team dynamics. Electrophysiology rotations provide involvement in a wide array of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including ablations and device implants, enhancing the fellows' technical prowess in treating arrhythmias.
1Curriculum and Clinical Rotations
The curriculum offers diverse electives tailored to fellows' interests, facilitating in-depth exploration in areas such as advanced cardiac imaging, heart failure and transplantation, vascular medicine, and basic science research. The flexibility in the elective structure permits fellows to design their educational experiences aligned with their career goals and aspirations.
Fellows participate in robust educational conferences, including daily noon lectures, weekly catheterization conferences, and periodic guest lectures from prominent figures in cardiovascular medicine, covering cutting-edge topics. This structured educational component ensures that fellows remain updated on advancements in the field and develop a strong foundation of knowledge.
1Training Environment and Support
Saint Vincent Hospital, recognized for its high-quality medical training, offers an environment that emphasizes mentorship and faculty engagement. The hospital is a community teaching hospital that has been serving the region for over 100 years, establishing a reputation for delivering exceptional cardiovascular care. The faculty comprises experienced cardiologists committed to providing individualized mentorship to fellows throughout their training.
The program boasts a commendable pass rate on the ABIM Cardiovascular Disease board exam, reflecting the effective training model and successful educational strategies utilized within the fellowship. Additionally, fellows often excel in their certifying examinations from the National Board of Echocardiography and the Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology, an indicator of the comprehensive training received during the fellowship.
1Research Opportunities
Research is an integral aspect of the fellowship program, encouraging fellows to engage in ongoing clinical studies and investigations within the field. Opportunities are available to collaborate with faculty on projects that may contribute to advancements in cardiovascular medicine and improve patient care practices. This emphasis on research fosters critical thinking and the application of evidence-based medicine in clinical practice.
1Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness
The Cardiology Fellowship at Saint Vincent Hospital is friendly towards applicants from diverse backgrounds, including international medical graduates (IMGs) and those holding Doctor of Osteopathic (DO) degrees. The program supports J-1 and H-1B visa applications, ensuring that international candidates have access to the fellowship.
However, it is essential to note that the program is competitive, with many applicants vying for limited fellowship positions. Therefore, prospective applicants are encouraged to present a strong application portfolio, highlighting clinical experiences, research involvement, and letters of recommendation to enhance their competitiveness.
2Special Application Requirements
While specific requirements for application can vary slightly from year to year, applicants generally need to have completed an internal medicine residency and possess a valid ECFMG certificate if applicable. Candidates should also be mindful of any maximum number of failed USMLE Step exams, as this could influence their application status. Ongoing performance within residency, achievements in research, and demonstrated commitment to the field of cardiology will form critical components of a successful application.
2Conclusion
Saint Vincent Hospital's Cardiology Fellowship provides a robust and comprehensive training experience that equips fellows with the skills, knowledge, and clinical exposure needed to excel in the field of cardiovascular medicine. The program's commitment to education, mentorship, and research further establishes it as an excellent option for medical graduates interested in a cardiology career.
2Website
Director
Bonnie H Weiner, MD, MBAProgram Director Appointed Since November 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$76,951First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Worcester, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA is a diverse city with a lot to offer for residents. Here is an overview of what living in Worcester is like:
Crime Rate and Safety:
Worcester has a mid-range crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. While certain areas may have higher crime rates, overall the city is considered safe to live in.
Fun Activities:
Worcester offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. There are also numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city has a vibrant food scene with diverse dining options.
Climate:
Worcester has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Races and Population:
Worcester is a diverse city with a population of approximately 208,000 residents. The city has a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Education:
Worcester is home to several higher education institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clark University. The city also has a strong public school system for residents with children.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Worcester is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood, but overall, Worcester offers a more affordable living situation compared to nearby Boston.
Proximity to Bigger Cities:
Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, which is about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic. Boston offers additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents looking to explore a bigger city.
Pros and Cons:
One of the pros of living in Worcester is its diverse community and cultural attractions. However, one potential con could be the traffic congestion during peak times, especially when commuting to Boston.
Interview Questions
