University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix Program

The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix aims to develop skilled interventional cardiologists through a comprehensive training program lasting 12 months. The curriculum integrates both didactic and practical experiences, ensuring that graduates are well prepared for careers in either academic interventional cardiology or private practice. Fellows are immersed in an intensive learning environment, with access to advanced methodologies and the latest technologies.

Curriculum Overview

This program is an ACGME-accredited fellowship that accommodates three new fellows each year. The curriculum is structured as follows:

• Didactic Components: Weekly catheterization conferences occur every Thursday morning, and Core Competency Conferences are held on Wednesday afternoons. These sessions include biostatistics and critical review of medical literature. The program also features a Monthly Board Review and Journal Club on Wednesday afternoons, as well as a Monthly citywide Angiography Club.
• Clinical Experience: Each fellow has the opportunity to serve as the primary operator on over 250 interventional cardiology procedures during their academic year. In addition, fellows participate in outpatient clinics for half a day each week, working closely with key faculty members.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Research is a core element of the Interventional Cardiology Fellowship program. Fellows are required to initiate their own research projects while collaborating with faculty on projects initiated by the faculty. The program provides access to statistical support and grant writing assistance for fellows, ensuring that they receive comprehensive aid in their research endeavors. A detailed account of the faculty's academic productivity is available through the fellowship coordinator.

Program Highlights and Benefits

The fellowship offers several unique benefits:

• No in-house interventional cardiology call is required.
• Fellows have access to the attending physician’s lounge, as well as library resources from the Arizona Health Information Network (AZ-HIN) and the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix.
• Opportunities are available to apply for a Structural Fellowship Program in the subsequent year.

Training Sites

The training sites for this fellowship include:

• Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix: This nationally recognized academic medical center excels in coordinated clinical care and expanded research activities. Patients with complex medical conditions rely on this facility for excellent patient care, with notable mentions for its high-risk obstetrics and transplant services.
• Banner Heart Hospital: Strategically located in the Phoenix metropolitan area, this hospital features comprehensive cardiovascular services, including intensive care and interventional units equipped with operating rooms and cardiac catheterization laboratories.

Visas and Application Requirements

The fellowship program only accepts applicants on J-1 visas. It is highly selective with a competitive application process, requiring applicants to demonstrate strong academic performance and relevant clinical experience.

Diversity and Community

Fellows come from varied backgrounds, enriching the program's community. They gain valuable learning experiences through interactions with diverse faculty members who hold different specializations and techniques in interventional cardiology. The program fosters an environment committed to excellence while supporting the personal and professional aspirations of each fellow.