University of South Dakota Program
Location:
Sioux Falls, SDSpecialty:
Interventional cardiologyACGME Code:
1524614001The University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine offers a one-year Interventional Cardiology fellowship that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. This program is designed to train one fellow per year, ensuring individualized attention and a comprehensive educational experience. Graduates of the fellowship will acquire the competence to perform complex percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) with limited peer support, reflective of typical practice in a rural United States setting. The unique structure of the program allows fellows to handle significant and complex caseloads, preparing them effectively for practice in any environment.
Mission
The mission of the program is to produce skilled interventional cardiologists who possess a comprehensive skill set for independent practice. Graduates are expected to function effectively from day one, even in conditions with limited peer backup.
Aims
Fellows will experience a robust caseload and graduate with the ability to undertake complex PCI, reflecting the demanding requirements of rural cardiology practices 1.
Program Curriculum
The curriculum affords fellows access to all FDA-approved devices available in the cath labs, many equipped with bi-plane technology. Throughout the year, fellows are expected to participate in and perform more than 1,000 procedures, including angioplasty and structural heart disease interventions. The training is rigorous, facilitating both clinical and procedural proficiency 1.
Training Sites
The Sanford Heart Hospital serves as the primary training site, offering a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance patient care while providing excellent educational opportunities for fellows. The hospital is seamlessly connected to the USD Sanford School of Medicine, ensuring direct access to a leading cardiovascular educational environment. The center has a long-standing reputation of over 30 years in delivering award-winning heart care 1.
Life in Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls is characterized as the largest city in South Dakota, providing fellows with a blend of urban amenities and a low cost of living. The city boasts a low crime rate and offers a close-knit community atmosphere, making it an attractive location for those pursuing advanced medical training. The population of around 202,000 supports a vibrant culture with access to parks, recreational facilities, restaurants, entertainment venues, and those committed to healthcare, education, and recreational lifestyles 1.
Application Requirements
To apply for the fellowship, candidates must have completed an accredited three-year residency in internal medicine followed by a three-year fellowship in cardiovascular disease. Successful completion of the American Board of Internal Medicine exam is also a requirement for advancement. International Medical Graduates must provide a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certificate and a copy of their current visa or green card. Required documentation includes a curriculum vitae, personal statement, recent photograph, two letters of recommendation, and letters from program directors of both internal medicine and cardiovascular disease. Interviews are granted only to the most qualified candidates who have completed their application 4.
Fellow Benefits
The University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine is committed to supporting fellows through a competitive salary and benefits package. The stipend for the seventh year (PGY-7) fellowship year is $83,000. Furthermore, fellows receive a $1,000 orientation stipend if they are new to the institution. The program offers comprehensive insurance plans, covering health, dental, life, and disability. Professional liability insurance is also provided 5.
Visa Support
The program has a visa policy in place for international applicants. Specifically, it sponsors J-1 visas for foreign medical graduates participating in fellowship training, thus facilitating the entrance of qualified international candidates into the program.
Competitiveness
The fellowship is highly competitive, and while it primarily caters to US graduates, it is also open to international medical candidates, provided they meet the program's requirements. This openness enhances diversity and equips fellows with various perspectives on interventional cardiology practice.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$78,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
Sioux Falls, SD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Sioux Falls, SD
- Crime Rate and Safety: Sioux Falls has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the U.S., making it a safe place to live.
- Fun Activities: Sioux Falls offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and water activities on the Big Sioux River. The city also has cultural attractions like museums and theaters.
- Climate: Sioux Falls experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snow in the winter months.
- Races and Population: Sioux Falls has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, creating a welcoming and inclusive community.
- Education: The city has good public and private schools, as well as higher education institutions like the University of Sioux Falls and Augustana University.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Sioux Falls is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to reside.
- Neaby Cities: Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota. The nearest bigger cities are Minneapolis, MN, and Omaha, NE, which are both approximately a 3-hour drive away. Minneapolis offers a vibrant urban experience with cultural attractions, while Omaha is known for its zoo and museums.
- Pros: Low crime rate, affordable cost of living, diverse population, and plenty of recreational activities.
- Cons: Cold winters and distance from larger cities for more diverse entertainment options.
Interview Questions
