University of Tennessee Medical Center at Knoxville Program
Location:
Knoxville, TNSpecialty:
Cardiovascular diseaseACGME Code:
1414712278Overview of the Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program
The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine is a three-year, ACGME-approved program designed for graduates of internal medicine residency programs. This program aims to cultivate a culture of intellectual curiosity and engagement, providing fellows with a comprehensive clinical experience alongside opportunities for research and discovery. The fellowship trains clinically proficient cardiologists who are well-equipped to pursue varied career goals, whether in clinical practice, academic medicine, or subspecialty training in cardiovascular medicine.
1The program emphasizes a supportive and collegial educational environment, where continuous learning is encouraged. Fellows receive training in both inpatient consultative services and outpatient staff clinics, focusing on patient-centered care.
1Clinical Rotations and Training
Clinical training includes work in the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC), which serves as a tertiary referral center and Level-I Trauma Center for the East Tennessee region. Fellows manage a wide array of cardiovascular conditions through consultative and critical care rotations. During the fellowship, extensive training is received in various diagnostic procedures, including:
- Electrocardiography (ECG)
- Holter and telemetry monitoring
- Echocardiography (both transthoracic and transesophageal)
- Exercise and pharmacologic stress testing
- Right and left heart catheterization
- Invasive electrophysiology (EP) testing
Fellows also gain experience in advanced procedures such as EP device implantation and catheter-based structural heart interventions.
1A unique aspect of the fellowship is that fellows can work closely with research mentors, pursuing individual research projects, particularly during the dedicated six months of research in the third year.
1Research Opportunities
The program values scholarly activity, encouraging fellows to present their research findings at regional and national meetings. The fellowship has a strong track record, with numerous fellows receiving awards for their research accomplishments. This academic environment is fostered by excellent faculty support and extensive research resources available at the Heart Lung Vascular Institute, which is recognized as a Center of Excellence within the UTMC.
1Training Facilities and Resources
The UTMC is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic facilities. All cardiology faculty are board-certified in cardiovascular disease and possess additional certifications in subspecialties such as interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. The yearly volume of cardiovascular procedures is significant, providing fellows with extensive hands-on experiences.
1The program routinely utilizes advanced technology and academic resources, benefiting from the university’s affiliation with institutions like the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and others.
1Support for Fellows
The fellowship offers an excellent support system for its fellows, including nursing, pharmacy, laboratory, nutritional support, and social worker assistance. There is a structured resident assistance program to ensure that fellows receive comprehensive support throughout their training.
1Visa Support and Application Requirements
The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program provides visa sponsorship for qualifying applicants. Specifically, it supports J-1 and H-1B visa types. Competitiveness for the program is notable; it is welcoming to DO and IMG applicants, making it a friendly environment for diverse medical backgrounds. However, the program does have stringent application requirements. Applicants must not have significant failed attempts on STEP exams and it may favor graduates of an accredited internal medicine residency.
1Post-Fellowship Placement
Fellows graduate with diverse opportunities and are placed in various roles across clinical and academic settings. Many graduates have successfully matched into advanced fellowships such as interventional cardiology and electrophysiology, while others have pursued careers in private practice or academic medicine.
2Website
Director
Raj Baljepally, MDProgram Director and Associate Professor of Medicine Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
30hrsFirst Year Salary:
$65,237First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
2Location
Knoxville, TN
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Knoxville, TN
- Crime Rate and Safety: Knoxville has slightly higher crime rates compared to the national average, but overall it is considered a safe place to live. As with any city, it's good to take standard safety precautions.
- Fun Activities: Knoxville offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and water sports due to its proximity to the Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River. There are also cultural events, festivals, and a vibrant music scene.
- Climate: Knoxville has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Expect some snowfall in winter, and plenty of sunshine in the summer.
- Races and Population: Knoxville has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities. It is also a university town, with the presence of the University of Tennessee contributing to cultural diversity.
- Education: Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee, offering educational and cultural opportunities. There are also good public and private schools in the area.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Knoxville is lower than the national average, particularly in terms of housing costs. This makes it an attractive location for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nashville is approximately 3 hours away by car from Knoxville. Nashville is known for its music scene and vibrant culture, offering residents a different city experience not too far away.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Knoxville include its lower cost of living, outdoor activities, and cultural events. Cons may include slightly higher crime rates and potential for hot summers.
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