UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
Clinical cardiac electrophysiologyACGME Code:
1542433034The UMass Chan Medical School Program in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology is a two-year, ACGME-accredited advanced fellowship program designed for candidates who have successfully completed a three-year cardiology fellowship. The program offers a robust training experience with a wide array of clinical exposure and research opportunities, firmly rooted in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is structured to ensure that fellows develop proficient clinical skills in diagnosing and managing arrhythmias, including both bradycardia and tachycardia. Fellows are expected to be familiar with the latest HRS/AHA/ACC guidelines concerning brady support and ICD implantations, along with drug therapies for arrhythmias. Throughout their training, fellows assume responsibilities comparable to those of an attending physician, particularly regarding patient admissions and management planning, allowing them to hone their clinical acumen in real-world scenarios 5.
Clinical Rotations
Fellows participate extensively in the catheterization laboratory, engaging in coronary interventions when not involved in structural heart disease work. The opportunity exists for fellows to assume a junior attending role and perform coronary interventions, including STEMI management, as per their assessed comfort levels and after suitable evaluations. Through this hands-on experience, fellows learn the intricacies of various arrhythmia procedures and management approaches 5.
Educational Conferences
The fellowship includes mandatory attendance at various educational conferences, including interventional cardiology conferences and multidisciplinary meetings that facilitate learning through case presentations and discussions. Fellows also have opportunities to present research findings at regional and national conferences, promoting both educational growth and professional networking 6.
Patient Care and Volume
The clinical volume of the program is substantial, with over 400 catheter ablations, ICD implants, and pacemaker placements occurring annually. The setting offers fellows exposure to diverse patient pathology and a high procedural volume, which is critical for developing advanced clinical skills 5.
Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes research, encouraging fellows to publish at least one abstract and one complete paper during their training. They will collaborate with attending cardiologists on various research projects and gain exposure to numerous funded clinical trials, contributing to a well-rounded academic experience 5.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the standout features of this fellowship is the supportive and collegial environment that exists among the faculty and fellows. With faculty members from a wide array of cardiology subspecialties, fellows benefit from a wealth of knowledge and experience, which enhances their learning and professional growth. The program's emphasis on mentorship is exemplified through regular interactions and guidance from faculty in both clinical and research contexts 6.
Visa Sponsorship
The UMass Chan Program in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology provides visa support through sponsorship of H1B visas. However, it does not sponsor J1 visas. All prospective fellows must ensure they can secure a full Massachusetts medical license to meet program requirements 5.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
This fellowship program is regarded as highly competitive. Applicants are typically required to have completed a cardiology fellowship and to demonstrate a strong background in clinical cardiology. Specific application requirements may include a maximum number of failed STEP exams, although the precise details should be verified during the application process 5.
Faculty and Mentorship
The program boasts a distinguished faculty, renowned for their expertise in clinical cardiac electrophysiology and related fields. This includes specialists in arrhythmias, cardiac devices, and complex procedural techniques. The faculty’s commitment to education is a hallmark of the program, often engaging in mentorship and collaboration with fellows, thereby enriching their training experience 5.
Website
Director
John K Donahue, MDProgram Director Appointed Since May 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$90,383First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.8XResidents 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
