University of Louisville School of Medicine Program

The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellowship program at the University of Louisville is designed to provide advanced training in anesthetic care for patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery. This one-year fellowship is fully accredited by the American Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and aims to develop well-rounded clinicians who can function as independent consultants in the field of adult cardiothoracic anesthesiology.

This program distinguishes itself through a structured educational framework that includes clinical rotations, weekly didactic sessions, multi-disciplinary academic conferences, and preparation for the Advanced Perioperative Transesophageal Exam by the National Board of Echocardiography (NBE). The program emphasizes a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling fellows to thrive in both academic and community hospital environments.

Program Goals and Objectives

The program's primary aims include:

• Delivering exceptional, patient-centered care at University of Louisville Hospital and Jewish Hospital.
• Recognizing fellows as authorities in evaluating and treating critically ill patients.
• Providing top-tier education in the practice of Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesia.
• Developing independent practitioners prepared to lead in both private and academic medicine.
• Encouraging scholarly inquiry where fellows engage in quality improvement and scientific pursuits.
• Incorporating cutting-edge technologies and techniques in training.

Each of these objectives is designed to prepare fellows for a successful and impactful career in the field.

Curriculum and Training Rotations

The fellowship follows a comprehensive 12-month curriculum, which includes extensive rotations in various areas:

• Cardiac Operating Room: 6 months
• Thoracic Operating Room: 1 month
• Cardiothoracic ICU: 1 month
• Congenital Cardiac Operating Room: 1 month
• Structural Heart: 1 month
• Transthoracic Echo: 1 month
• Research/Elective: 1 month (options include research, perfusion, or additional TTE/structural heart rotation)

The structured clinical exposure ensures a rounded learning experience within the specialty.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are expected to engage in research activities, which typically include designing a systems-based improvement project and presenting a research project or case report at a national conference. Such experiences not only contribute to the fellows’ educational growth but also enhance their contributions to the field of anesthesiology.

Stipends and Benefits

Fellows in the program receive a stipend based on postgraduate year (PGY) level, alongside various benefits that include:

• Annual stipend of $63,144 with monthly payments of approximately $5,262.
• 20 days of paid vacation.
• Book stipend of $500.
• Funding for educational conferences up to $1,500.
• Life and health insurance, including family coverage at minimal cost.
• Professional liability insurance.
• Access to free parking.

Visa Support and Applicability for International Medical Graduates

The University of Louisville offers visa support for international recruits as the program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visa types. This commitment enhances the program’s accessibility to international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to pursue advanced training in cardiothoracic anesthesiology.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The fellowship is considered to be highly competitive; candidates must have completed an ACME-accredited residency program to be eligible for application. Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate a strong performance on the USMLE or COMLEX examinations. There are no stated maximum limits on failed STEP exams, but a solid academic and clinical background is crucial. In general, the program welcomes both DO and IMG candidates, fostering inclusivity.

The application process entails submission through the appropriate channels, including interviews with the program director and faculty members. Candidates are advised that interviews take place from January through March.