University of Connecticut Program

The University of Connecticut Interventional Cardiology Fellowship is a prestigious one-year, ACGME-approved program situated at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital, providing a robust academic environment focused on comprehensive training in interventional cardiology.

This fellowship program specifically aims to produce highly qualified interventional cardiologists through intensive training in both standard and complex coronary interventions. Advanced techniques such as rotational atherectomy and intravascular ultrasound are covered, emphasizing a substantial mastery of radial access, which is a vital skill in modern interventional cardiology. In addition to coronary procedures, fellows gain extensive experience in peripheral vascular interventions and will benefit from vascular medicine training, non-invasive vascular imaging, and direct participation in clinical trials. The program emphasizes hands-on experience in the catheterization laboratory, with fellows participating in approximately 75 procedures per year, which encompasses renal, subclavian, and lower extremity interventions, thereby ensuring exposure to a wide spectrum of interventional techniques and challenges 1.

Outpatient settings are an integral part of the training experience, where fellows are actively involved in consultations and non-invasive imaging. The program also includes collaborative opportunities with the Vascular Surgery and Interventional Radiology teams, allowing fellows to participate in various procedures and outpatient clinics—an aspect that can be tailored to meet individual trainee interests. Additionally, the program guarantees fellows protected time for research, engaging them in an active research program focused on important advancements in interventional cardiology 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship, with numerous ongoing projects at the Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center. Fellows are encouraged to participate in existing investigations and to pursue self-initiated research projects. Collaborative research focuses on a range of critical initiatives, including assessing novel methods to prevent the progression of coronary artery disease, enhancing performance in failing hearts, and improving diagnostics for heart damage using advanced imaging techniques 1 5.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility for the fellowship includes completion of an accredited general cardiology fellowship. The program accepts one fellow per year, making it a highly competitive opportunity with approximately 100 applicants annually. Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by February 1 of the application year. Applicants are required to submit comprehensive documentation, including a curriculum vitae, medical school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and USMLE transcripts for Steps 1 and 2 2 4.

This program actively seeks U.S. citizens and residents, as well as those on J-1 visas, as it does not accommodate H-1B visa holders. Special considerations in the application are made for candidates who are committed to fostering diversity within the medical community, indicating the program's dedication to an inclusive environment 2 4.

Training Environment

The training environment at UConn is supportive and collaborative, promoting a high academic standard. Weekly didactic sessions, monthly journal clubs, and citywide clinical conferences provide a comprehensive learning platform, supplemented by cardiovascular ground rounds that enrich the education experience of the fellows. Given the program’s emphasis on practical experience and academic engagement, fellows will find themselves well-prepared for independent practice 1 5.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates, the UConn Interventional Cardiology Fellowship supports J-1 visa sponsorship but does not process H-1B visa applications. This distinction is essential for international candidates to understand as they navigate their eligibility and application logistics 2 4.