University of Pennsylvania Health System Program
Location:
Philadelphia, PASpecialty:
Adult cardiothoracic anesthesiologyACGME Code:
0414131008The Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellowship is a one-year clinical training program that prepares graduates for leadership positions within the subspecialty of cardiothoracic anesthesiology. The program is embedded in a multidisciplinary academic environment that fosters comprehensive competence across various core areas including patient care, medical knowledge, practice-based learning and improvement, interpersonal skills, professionalism, and systems-based practice in cardiothoracic anesthesiology 1.
This fellowship offers five Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accredited positions annually to qualified applicants. Completing the program curriculum meets the minimum ACGME requirements and allows eligibility for certification in Advanced Perioperative Transesophageal Echocardiography from the National Board of Echocardiography. Training includes hands-on instruction and comprehensive anesthetic and perioperative care in cardiothoracic operating rooms under experienced faculty supervision. Fellows also engage in oversight and education of Anesthesiology residents during their cardiothoracic rotation 1.
Rotations and Clinical Experience
The fellowship includes a rotation at the Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, enabling fellows to care for cardiac surgery patients within a community hospital environment. The fellowship also covers clinical training in the Cardiothoracic Surgical Intensive Care Unit (CT-SICU), providing an opportunity for fellows to collaborate with surgical residents, critical care medicine fellows, cardiology fellows, and nurse practitioners 1.
Curriculum and Educational Activities
Fellows will engage in formal training in transesophageal echocardiography, managing surgical patients, and conducting research within the cardiothoracic anesthesia domain. The fellowship also organizes several educational events, such as the introduction to TEE course, critical care medicine course, and advanced fellow conferences. Notably, fellows are tasked with preparing presentations for departmental rounds, case conferences, and literature review presentations 1.
Research and Academic Development
Research participation is integral to the fellowship experience, especially for those interested in academic careers. Fellows may select from various academic development tracks, including a combined Critical Care Medicine and Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology track that spans two years, or an Instructor track that stipulates a faculty position following fellowship completion. The Research Training Grant (RTG) track offers three years of training for candidates aiming to pursue independent investigator roles 1.
Clinical Volume and Experience
The program ensures exposure to a broad array of clinical cases, with the Cardiovascular Surgery division performing a substantial number of cardiac procedures annually, including open heart surgeries and transplants. The volume of cases includes approximately 2,000 cardiac surgical procedures annually 1.
Application Process
The fellowship program commences on July 1 each year, with applications being accepted from January 1 to March 31 of the year prior to the fellowship start date. Selection involves a matching process through SF Match, and interviews are required. Eligible candidates should have graduated from an ACGME-accredited Anesthesiology residency program, and unrestricted Pennsylvania medical licenses are essential 1.
Visa Sponsorship
The fellowship supports visa sponsorship for various categories, accommodating international medical graduates aiming to pursue advanced training in health care. The exact types of visa support available can be clarified during the application process.
Competitiveness of the Program
This fellowship is recognized as highly competitive, and while it is favorable towards all qualified candidates, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds, applicants should meet all outlined eligibility criteria to enhance their chances in the selection process 1.
Special Requirements
Additional application requirements may include providing documentation about the year of graduation from medical school, academic qualifications, and maximum allowed failed STEP examination scores 1.
Website
Director
Jared W Feinman, MDAssociate Professor in Anesthesiology and Critical Care Appointed Since July 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
58hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$85,532First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.
Interview Questions
