University of Washington School of Medicine Program

The University of Washington Medical Center (UWMC) offers a distinguished fellowship program in Advanced Heart Failure, Mechanical Circulatory Support, and Cardiac Transplantation. This program is designed for those who have completed three years of ACGME-accredited Internal Medicine training followed by three years of ACGME-accredited general cardiology training. The fellowship is situated within a quaternary referral teaching hospital, providing an impeccable setting for advanced medical training.

UWMC serves a wide geographical area that encompasses the WWAMI states – Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho. The medical center has a robust heart failure and cardiac transplant program, performing between 70 to 80 cardiac transplantation surgeries annually; in 2022, 70 transplants were performed. Over the years, UWMC has undergone a significant evolution in its transplantation efforts, performing a total of 1,182 cardiac transplants since their inception in 1985. The program boasts survival statistics that exceed national averages, with a median graft survival exceeding 15 years, an indication of the quality care provided (1).

Fellowship Responsibilities

Fellows in this program hold significant responsibilities across various patient care settings. They serve in a supervisory capacity on in-patient services, which include the Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Cardiac Transplant Intensive Care Unit (CTICU), and heart failure/transplant service. In addition to consultations for patients facing end-stage heart failure and those undergoing cardiac transplantation, fellows will be involved in collaborative care for patients who have received mechanical ventricular assist devices (VAD). Such involvement will extend to out-patient settings, where fellows will engage in clinics focused on heart failure, transplant, VAD, Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD), and pulmonary hypertension. This promises a well-rounded exposure to various cases and treatment modalities and the opportunity to participate in advanced procedures such as right heart catheterizations and cardiac biopsies in post-transplant patients (1).

An essential component of the curriculum is scholarly research. Each fellow shall receive dedicated time to pursue investigative projects tailored to their academic interests, alongside mentorship from experienced faculty who are leaders in the field.

Life in Seattle

Seattle, known for its stunning natural beauty, offers a balanced lifestyle for residents and professionals alike. The city enjoys warm summers with low humidity and moderate winter temperatures. The vibrant cultural scene includes a diverse array of fine dining options, renowned coffee spots, and rich musical traditions. Sports enthusiasts can root for local teams such as the Seahawks, Sounders, Storm, and the newly established Seattle Kraken in the National Hockey League.

Outdoor activities abound, with extensive hiking trails and national parks - the Olympic National Park and the North Cascade Mountains - providing excellent opportunities for exploration and adventure. Seattle's unique blend of urban and natural environments contributes to a fulfilling life outside of work (1).

Application Process

The fellowship program accepts two positions starting every July 1st. Prospective candidates must submit complete applications through the ERAS system beginning on July 1st and concluding no later than August 14th. It’s important to note that late applications may not be considered. Interviews for prospective fellows typically occur between September and October, culminating in the Match process in November. To be eligible for this fellowship, applicants must have successfully completed an ACGME-accredited Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program.

Required documents for application include a curriculum vitae, research experience summary, personal statement, USMLE transcripts (Steps 1-3), a Dean's Letter, and Medical School transcripts. Additionally, ECFMG certification and visa status documentation are required if applicable. Lastly, summative evaluations from both Internal Medicine residency and Cardiology Fellowship must be submitted if the candidate has already graduated from those programs. Letters of recommendation should include one from the Cardiovascular Fellowship Program Director and two from research mentors or cardiology faculty, specifically addressing the candidate's clinical skills, research experience, and academic potential (1).

Visa Support

The program provides comprehensive visa support for international medical graduates as part of its commitment to recruiting a diverse cohort of trainees. It is essential for candidates to specify their visa status in their applications. Information regarding the visa types supported can typically be found within the provided guidelines or policy statements from the University of Washington Medical Center.

Competitiveness and For Unique Applicant Profiles

Given its robust training and superior surgical outcomes, the fellowship is highly competitive. The program welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those from international medical schools and those with Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degrees. The inclusive environment is designed to enrich the educational experience for all trainees, embracing diversity in all forms as a strategic commitment of the fellowship program (1).

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

The University of Washington's Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology Fellowship Program places a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The program actively recruits and supports trainees from groups that are underrepresented in medicine, recognizing that such diversity enriches both the learning environment and the quality of patient care. This commitment is reflected in our policies and practices within both educational and clinical settings (1).