UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program
Location:
Los Angeles, CASpecialty:
Advanced heart failure and transplant cardiologyACGME Code:
1590514045The UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine offers an Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology Program designed to develop skilled cardiologists capable of handling complex cases of heart failure and transplant issues. This fellowship program emphasizes both clinical excellence and innovative research in the field of cardiology.
Program Overview
The fellowship integrates extensive clinical training with opportunities for advanced research, aligning with the mission to cultivate future leaders in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology. Special attention is placed on mentoring, ensuring fellows receive guidance from experienced professionals in the field.
Curriculum
The curriculum within the Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology Program comprises rigorous educational lectures, case discussions, and hands-on training. Fellows engage in didactic sessions pertinent to advanced heart failure, transplant pathology, and the management of complex patient cases. Additionally, educational activities include:
- Weekly seminars featuring guest speakers from leading cardiology institutions.
- Participation in multi-disciplinary rounds to enhance clinical decision making.
- Involvement in quality improvement projects focusing on patient care processes.
Rotations
The fellowship provides exposure to a variety of essential rotations. Major components include:
- Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiovascular Critical Care.
- Inpatient and outpatient elective rotations focusing on advanced heart failure therapies.
- Opportunities to participate in procedures like left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placements and cardiac transplants.
These experiences are structured to ensure that fellows gain comprehensive knowledge and practice in clinical cardiology.
Research Opportunities
Research is a crucial aspect of the fellowship, with fellows encouraged to engage in projects that advance knowledge in heart failure and transplant cardiology. Opportunities include:
- Collaboration on research grants and clinical trials.
- Access to resources and mentorship within the UCLA research community.
- Presenting findings at national conferences and contributing to peer-reviewed publications.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program distinguishes itself through:
- An integrative approach to patient care that combines clinical training with research opportunities.
- Access to a diverse patient population at the UCLA Medical Center.
- Strong interdisciplinary connections that facilitate comprehensive care and innovative treatment solutions.
Training Sites
The primary training site for the program is UCLA Medical Center, renowned for its advanced cardiac care and groundbreaking research in cardiology. The facility supports a collaborative environment where fellows work alongside experts in various subspecialties.
Visa Support and Sponsorship
The fellowship program offers visa sponsorship opportunities for eligible international medical graduates. The program typically sponsors H-1B and J-1 visas, assisting fellows in navigating the necessary application processes to ensure compliance with immigration requirements.
Competitiveness
The Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology fellowship program is highly competitive, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds, including both DO and IMG applicants. Demonstrated clinical performance, academic achievement, and research experience are critical components of the selection process, making it essential for applicants to showcase their strengths effectively.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to meet certain criteria to be eligible for the program. These include:
- Completion of an ACGME-accredited residency in Internal Medicine or Pediatrics.
- Prior experience in cardiology is highly advantageous.
- A maximum of one failed attempt on USMLE Step exams is typically accepted.
Prospective fellows are encouraged to present a strong application, including a personal statement highlighting their interest in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology, letters of recommendation from mentors familiar with their clinical and research work, and evidence of scholarly activity.
Website
- 1 .Medical Residency | UCLA Medical School
- 2 .Medical Residency | Career Development | UCLA Medical School
- 3 .Physician Scientist Career Development | ASCEND Program | UCLA Medical School
- 4 .Biodesign Fellowship | UCLA Medical School
- 5 .Physician Scientist | PSTP Program | UCLA Medical School
- 6 .Physician Scientist | About PSTP | UCLA Medical School
Director
Arnold S Baas, MDClinical Professor of Medicine Appointed Since July 2013 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
-Residents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Los Angeles, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Los Angeles, CA
- Crime rate and safety: Los Angeles has a moderate crime rate with certain neighborhoods having higher crime rates than others. It's recommended to research and choose a safe area to live in.
- Fun activities: Los Angeles is known for its diverse entertainment options, such as Hollywood attractions, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Climate: Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It is generally sunny throughout the year.
- Races and population: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population representing various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Los Angeles is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering a wide range of educational opportunities.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Los Angeles is relatively high compared to other cities in the U.S., especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
- Proximity to bigger cities: Nearby bigger cities include San Diego (about 2-3 hours drive) and San Francisco (about 6-7 hours drive), offering additional urban experiences.
- Pros: Exciting cultural opportunities, diverse culinary experiences, access to beautiful beaches, great weather, and potential networking opportunities in the entertainment industry.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, air pollution, and housing affordability challenges.
Interview Questions
