University of Virginia Medical Center Program
Location:
Charlottesville, VASpecialty:
Interventional cardiologyACGME Code:
1525113093The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Program at the University of Virginia (UVA) Medical Center is a prestigious and comprehensive training opportunity aimed at fellows in their fourth or fifth year of internal medicine cardiology fellowships. This fellowship, offered by UVA's Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, provides a robust educational foundation in interventional cardiology, combining clinical experience with didactic learning to equip fellows with essential skills for their future careers.
The program offers a one to two-year accredited fellowship, where fellows can choose to either complete a full clinical fellowship in one year or dedicate the first year to research, followed by a clinically-focused second year. Participants rotate through various settings, including the cardiac catheterization laboratory, inpatient services, and an interventional outpatient clinic, thereby acquiring technical expertise in diagnostic and interventional cardiovascular procedures while also gaining extensive clinical exposure to the care of both inpatient and outpatient interventional cardiology patients 1.
Clinical Rotations
Clinical training in the Interventional Cardiology Fellowship consists of a rigorous apprenticeship model where fellows are involved in the direct care of interventional patients. They are responsible for the assessment and management of inpatients referred for percutaneous coronary interventions, making critical decisions regarding coronary revascularization and ensuring comprehensive post-procedural care 2.
Fellows engage directly with all procedures under the supervision of experienced interventional cardiologists, performing techniques such as balloon angioplasty, coronary stenting, and intravascular ultrasound, among others. Experience with both standard and advanced peripheral vascular procedures is also an integral part of the training, which allows fellows to develop a diverse skill set applicable in various clinical scenarios 2.
Curriculum
The curriculum is geared towards fostering a solid knowledge base in invasive and interventional cardiology through a 'mentored tutorial' approach. Online resources allow fellows to prepare themselves for the technical aspects of their practice, including angiographic review sessions and in-depth discussions surrounding various cardiovascular conditions. Topics include cardiac outputs, angiography techniques, pharmacology, complications of intervention, and management of coronary conditions, among others 4.
Conferences
The program encourages continuous learning through various conferences designed for the interventional fellows. Key conferences include the Cardiovascular Grand Rounds, which feature guest speakers who are leaders in the field, and the Cath Lab Teaching Conference, which focuses on the core knowledge needed for interventional practice. Participation in case presentations at the Cath Conference allows fellows to engage with complex patient scenarios and review relevant literature, further enhancing their learning experience 3.
Research Opportunities
Research is a fundamental component of the Interventional Cardiology Fellowship. Fellows are encouraged to engage in independent research projects, contributing to ongoing studies and protocols within the cardiac catheterization laboratory, which performs over 2,000 diagnostic and 600 interventional procedures each year 1. Research opportunities can involve both clinical and primary research, providing fellows with avenues to contribute to the advancement of the field.
Application Requirements and Competitiveness
To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must have successfully completed three years of an internal medicine residency and have board certification or eligibility in Cardiovascular Disease. The program has joined the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) for positioning candidates, making it a highly competitive process for applicants. It is important for prospective fellows to stay informed about specific submission dates and requirements to ensure they meet the program's criteria 1.
Visa Support
The Interventional Cardiology Fellowship at UVA supports international applicants by offering visa sponsorship for J-1 visas, helping facilitate the entry of qualified international medical graduates into the program 1.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the distinguishing features of the UVA Interventional Cardiology Fellowship is its dual focus on clinical and academic training, allowing fellows the chance to engage deeply in research while honing their procedural skills. This fellowship promotes a collaborative environment where fellows work closely with attendings and fellow colleagues, fostering a unique mentorship experience that enriches their training and professional growth 1.
Website
Director
Michael Ragosta, MDProfessor of Medicine and Director, Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Program Appointed Since January 2002Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$83,278First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.5XResidents 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
