Tulane University Program

The Tulane University School of Medicine offers a specialized Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship Program, dedicated to training physicians in the comprehensive management of cardiac arrhythmias. This program emphasizes an advanced understanding of cardiac electrophysiology, which includes both the scientific underpinnings and practical applications essential for effective patient care.

With a focus on hands-on training, the fellowship promotes competence in both invasive and non-invasive electrophysiological procedures. Fellows will progressively gain responsibilities in various procedures, such as diagnostic electrophysiology studies, mapping, catheter ablation for both supraventricular and ventricular tachycardias, as well as the implantation and extraction of both transvenous and subcutaneous cardiac devices. The fellowship also encompasses the management of left atrial appendage closure devices.

Training Structure

Throughout the fellowship, trainees will engage with diverse patient populations at three major medical centers: Tulane Medical Center, University Medical Center of New Orleans, and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Healthcare System Medical Center. This multi-site training ensures exposure to a wide array of clinical conditions and treatment protocols, so fellows can gain expansive experience in the diagnosis and management of arrhythmias.

The fellowship integrates outpatient clinics focused on electrophysiology and cardiac devices, allowing fellows to manage patients longitudinally. Fellows will observe device follow-ups and associated management, providing a comprehensive understanding of patient care in this specialty.

Program Certification and Requirements

The Tulane University School of Medicine’s Office of Graduate Medical Education oversees this two-year program, ensuring compliance with all Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) standards, alongside adhering to the guidelines set by the American College of Cardiology’s Core Cardiovascular Training Statement (COCATS).

Upon completion of the fellowship, participants will possess the necessary skills and qualifications to pursue certification in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology as stipulated by the ACGME.

Application Process

The fellowship program accepts applicants who have completed an ACGME-accredited general cardiology fellowship by a specific deadline. Prospective fellows are required to submit several documents, including a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and USMLE scores. Additionally, international medical school graduates must provide a valid ECFMG certificate. Required letters of recommendation should be from reputable sources, ideally one from the cardiology program director, and must be submitted directly to the fellowship program.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship options for international applicants, typically supporting J-1 and H-1B visa types, ensuring comprehensive support for eligible candidates navigating immigration policies.

Competitiveness

The Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellowship at Tulane University is considered competitive. Applicants are encouraged to present strong academic backgrounds, relevant experiences in cardiology, and compelling personal statements to enhance their candidacy. The program is open to graduates from both MD and DO backgrounds, as well as international medical graduates, promoting an inclusive recruitment strategy.