University of Colorado Program

The Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship Training Program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine (CU SOM) began in 1971 and is fully accredited by the American Medical Association, the American Board of Pediatrics, and the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education. The program aims to develop compassionate, knowledgeable, and driven pediatric cardiologists through a comprehensive three-year training curriculum.

Children’s Hospital Colorado serves as the primary training site, which is recognized as a top children's hospital in the U.S. with a regional outreach that provides services to a diverse population across several states including Wyoming, Montana, and New Mexico among others. The fellowship consists of four categorical fellowship positions per year, with additional opportunities for a fourth year of advanced training in specialized areas including heart failure and transplantation, pediatric cardiac intensive care, pediatric advanced cardiac imaging, interventional congenital cardiology, and pediatric electrophysiology.

Curriculum Overview

The pediatric cardiology fellowship is structured over three years, allowing fellows extensive exposure to both congenital and acquired heart defects, paired with considerable time dedicated to active research in basic, clinical, and translational studies. The curriculum ensures significant development in communication skills, patient-centered care, and procedures through a multitude of clinical rotations. The fellows primarily rotate at Children's Hospital Colorado, along with experiences at the University of Colorado Hospital and Denver Health Medical Center.

Each training year is divided into 13 four-week blocks, with assignments primarily consisting of clinical service and research blocks. Night float coverage is structured to balance clinical responsibilities and research time, promoting a blend of inpatient and outpatient care focused on safety and quality improvement.

Clinical Training

The fellowship provides a vast array of clinical training opportunities, positioning fellows within a multi-disciplinary team of pediatric cardiologists in a high-volume surgical center. The Heart Institute performs over 700 cardiac surgeries, 30 stage one palliations (Norwood operations) annually, and conducts approximately 1,000 pediatric cardiac catheterizations each year. Fellows will cultivate their clinical acumen through continuous direct patient care, alongside receiving training in vital procedures such as echocardiography and cardiac catheterization.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pillar of the fellowship, with protected research time allotted throughout the program. Fellows can explore multiple research opportunities, with guidance provided by various faculty members. They are encouraged to initiate projects early and are expected to present their findings at national conferences. The fellowship also promotes collaboration with initiatives like the Pediatric Heart Network, allowing participation in broader multi-institutional studies.

Diversity and Inclusion

Embracing diversity is central to the program's mission. The University of Colorado and Children’s Hospital Colorado aim to foster an inclusive environment that attracts diverse fellows and celebrates differences among students and faculty. The program hosts community engagement initiatives and training to improve cultural competency, reflecting the demographic diversity of the Denver area, which is inclusive of a rich tapestry of racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The pediatric cardiology fellowship program is regarded as competitive. Applicants must have completed a three-year ACGME-accredited residency in pediatrics and be board eligible. Special application requirements include having at least three letters of reference, a personal statement, and USMLE or COMLEX score reports. Those not holding U.S. citizenship must supply an ECFMG report along with their ERAS application, and should be aware that J-1 visas are the only visa arrangements supported by the program for international applicants. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered, underscoring the importance of submitting all requested documents on time.

Benefits

The fellowship offers a competitive salary and benefits package, proportional to other leading fellowship programs. Candidates are invited to participate in outreach community clinics and have access to comprehensive educational resources.

Living in Denver

Fellows are particularly drawn to Denver for its vibrant city life, outdoor activities, and beautiful weather, with 300 days of sunshine annually. The region boasts myriad recreational opportunities due to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, making it a prime location for both personal and professional growth.