UPMC Medical Education (Harrisburg) Program

The UPMC Harrisburg Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program offers a comprehensive and immersive training experience aimed at producing highly skilled cardiologists. The program is part of the Central Pennsylvania division of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, which has a long-standing reputation for excellence in cardiovascular care for over four decades.

Fellows benefit from exposure to a diverse array of cardiovascular disciplines, including electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, non-invasive cardiology, preventative cardiology, cardio-oncology, advanced cardiac surgery, sports and exercise cardiology, structural heart interventions, and vascular surgery. This broad exposure allows fellows to develop a well-rounded skill set essential for clinical practice and leadership roles in the field of cardiology 1.

Education and Training

The primary objective of the fellowship program is to graduate exceptional cardiologists who are prepared to tackle any clinical challenge they may encounter. This is achieved through a combination of core curriculum, clinical rotations, and research opportunities. The first year of the program focuses on essential skill development, while future years allow fellows to explore electives and engage in research relevant to their career aspirations.

Fellows are expected to complete a research project under faculty mentorship, which aligns with their individual career goals. UPMC Harrisburg is widely recognized for its involvement in groundbreaking multi-center trials, providing fellows with opportunities to participate in significant research 1.

Clinical Rotations

The fellowship entails core rotations designed to provide comprehensive clinical exposure across various cardiology subspecialties. These rotations are structured to enhance fellows' diagnostic and treatment skills while familiarizing them with various patient populations and clinical environments.

Research Opportunities

The unique faculty and patient demographics at UPMC Harrisburg facilitate significant involvement in crucial structural heart trials, as well as trials encompassing heart failure and vascular interventions. The program maintains a relationship with the University of Pittsburgh, providing fellows with access to extensive health sciences resources to enhance their research capabilities.

Core Faculty

The faculty comprises seasoned professionals in cardiology, ensuring a wealth of knowledge and experience is available to fellows. Notable faculty members include the Program Director and other distinguished cardiologists specializing in various aspects of cardiovascular medicine. This faculty composition focuses on nurturing the next generation of cardiologists through mentorship and hands-on training 1.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Applicants for the UPMC Harrisburg Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship must register through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). The application requires three letters of recommendation from the most recent academic year, with at least one from the Internal Medicine Program Director and one from the Department Chair. The program is competitive, welcoming applications from both MD and DO graduates, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs) 1.

Visa Sponsorship

The program offers support for E-3, H-1B, J-1, and O-1 visa types, thereby facilitating opportunities for eligible international medical graduates to apply and take part in the fellowship training.

Salary and Benefits

Fellowship participants receive a competitive salary along with a benefits package, which is designed to support the well-being of fellows throughout their training period. Specifics regarding salary levels and additional benefits can be found through the program’s resources.

Graduate Success

Graduates from the UPMC Harrisburg Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program have successfully advanced their careers in various settings, including academia and private practice, attesting to the program's effectiveness in providing the requisite skills and knowledge for future cardiologists 2.

Current Fellows

The fellowship program is home to a diverse group of current fellows, showcasing a rich tapestry of educational backgrounds and prior residency experiences. This diversity enhances the academic environment and promotes collaborative learning among fellows 3.