University of Virginia Medical Center Program
Location:
Charlottesville, VASpecialty:
Advanced heart failure and transplant cardiologyACGME Code:
1595114021The Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology Fellowship Program at the University of Virginia Medical Center is designed to provide specialized training for cardiology fellows who have completed their general cardiovascular disease fellowship. This one-year, ACGME-accredited program focuses on educating physicians in the management of complex cardiac conditions, which include outpatient and inpatient care, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment strategies for various cardiac interventions.
Clinical training within the program concentrates on several key areas relevant to advanced heart failure care, including the use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), cardiac resynchronization therapy, high-risk cardiac surgery, mechanical circulatory support, transplantation, and palliative care. Fellows are expected to participate actively in both inpatient and outpatient settings, offering comprehensive care to patients with advanced heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, left ventricular assist devices, and heart transplants.1
Program Structure
The curriculum is well-structured, encompassing a variety of educational and clinical experiences. The inpatient service allows fellows to manage patients admitted due to advanced heart failure and related conditions. Fellows play a crucial role in the multidisciplinary team, which includes housestaff, attending physicians, nurse practitioners, and other support staff. Furthermore, a close collaboration with the cardiac surgery service allows fellows to gain experience in the perioperative management of high-risk patients.1
The outpatient service consists of a busy clinic schedule focusing on heart failure, left ventricular assist devices (LVAD), and pulmonary hypertension management. This hands-on clinical experience is complemented by procedural training, which covers cardiac catheterization, endomyocardial biopsy, and transesophageal echocardiography, alongside programming and interrogating devices such as ICDs and LVADs.1
Educational Activities
Fellows are encouraged to participate in multiple educational activities aimed at enhancing their knowledge and skills in cardiology. These include monthly journal clubs, cardiology grand rounds, imaging conferences, cath conferences, and a monthly morbidity and mortality conference. Additionally, the Advanced Heart Failure Fellow is encouraged to attend significant national meetings such as the Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) annual meeting and the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) conference.1
Application Process
To apply for the Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Fellowship, candidates must be in the third year of their general cardiology fellowship at the time of application. The program is known to be competitive, catering primarily to those who have already completed a standard cardiovascular disease fellowship.2
Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes research as an integral aspect of fellow training. Participants are expected to engage in mentored clinical research, allowing them the opportunity to contribute to advancing the field of cardiac care. Research initiatives are supported by the institution's extensive facilities geared towards cardiovascular innovation, making it an ideal environment for fellows who wish to delve deeper into clinical trials and studies.2
Visa Support
The program is committed to supporting international fellows through various visa sponsorships. Common visa types supported include J-1 and H-1B visas. The program's experience with visa applications aims to facilitate a smooth transition for international medical graduates seeking specialized training opportunities in the United States.1
Competitiveness
The Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology fellowship is characterized as a highly competitive program, accessible to both MD and DO candidates, including international medical graduates (IMGs). Applicants are evaluated based on their training background, clinical experience, and research contributions, among other factors.1
Additional Program Information
For more comprehensive information regarding specific application requirements such as the maximum number of failed STEP exams or recent graduation dates, interested candidates are encouraged to refer to the program's details. The program remains committed to preparing fellows for successful careers in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology.
Website
Director
Mohammad Abuannadi, MBBSProgram Director, Associate Professor of Medicine Appointed Since January 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$80,853First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Charlottesville, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville, VA, is a charming city located in central Virginia. Here's a breakdown of various aspects of living in Charlottesville:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Charlottesville generally has a moderate crime rate with a focus on property crimes. It is always recommended to be cautious in any city.
- Fun Activities: Charlottesville is known for its historical sites, vineyards, and outdoor activities like hiking in Shenandoah National Park. There are also cultural events, music festivals, and a thriving food scene.
- Climate: Charlottesville experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and mild winters. Fall is particularly beautiful with the changing colors of the leaves.
- Races and Population: Charlottesville has a diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities contributing to its vibrant community.
- Education: Charlottesville is home to the University of Virginia, which brings a strong academic and intellectual atmosphere to the city.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Charlottesville is slightly above the national average, mainly due to housing costs. However, compared to big cities, it is still relatively affordable.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Washington, D.C., is around 2 to 3 hours away by car, and Richmond, VA, is about an hour and a half away. Both cities offer more extensive cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities.
Interview Questions
