UPMC Medical Education Program
Specialty:
Interventional cardiologyACGME Code:
1524121116The Cardiovascular Fellowship Training Program at the University of Pittsburgh (UPMC) has a long-standing tradition of excellence, offering comprehensive fellowship training in the field of cardiology for over four decades. Designed to address the evolving nature of cardiovascular medicine, the program incorporates a wide range of training modalities focused on developing master clinicians. This program encompasses substantive clinical exposure and the opportunity to engage in extensive research, ensuring fellows build a solid foundation in both the practice and science of cardiology.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum within the fellowship is structured to meet all American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) requirements. This ensures that by the completion of the fellowship, participants are prepared to sit for the cardiovascular boards. The training is divided into various tracks including General Cardiology, Cardiology Physician-Educator, and Cardiology Physician-Scientist, allowing fellows to customize their experience based on career aspirations. Each track incorporates clinical rotations alongside dedicated faculty who are recognized for their educational prowess.1
Clinical Rotations
Fellows enjoy extensive clinical rotations at major UPMC sites including UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Montefiore, as well as the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System and Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. Rotations provide comprehensive exposure to inpatient and outpatient cardiology, interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and advanced heart failure procedures.1 Elective rotations further allow fellows to pursue individual interests within the field.
Research Opportunities
A critical aspect of the fellowship is the requirement for all fellows to engage in meaningful research, developed in collaboration with faculty mentors. Research initiatives may span clinical, basic, and translational areas. Training in biostatistics and lab methods is available, with competitive fellowship grants of up to $10,000 accessible to fund projects.18
Unique Program Features
One of the distinguishing characteristics of the UPMC Cardiovascular Fellowship is its commitment to tailoring the training experience. Each fellow's schedule is customized to support individual career paths and growth areas. The program promotes mentorship and career development, linking fellows with faculty who can support their academic pursuits.
Fellows can extend their expertise in subspecialties through additional training fellowships, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and advanced imaging. Educational components include comprehensive lectures and conferences covering significant topics in cardiovascular health, ensuring fellows receive a holistic educational experience.2
Visa Sponsorship
UPMC is supportive of international applicants, and the program has the capacity to sponsor visas for its fellows, allowing for a diverse and inclusive training environment.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
Candidates should be aware that the fellowship is highly competitive. In addition to required qualifications, applicants may have specific criteria to meet such as the year of graduation or limits on previously failed examinations. These factors are pivotal in determining eligibility for the program.7
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Director
Jeffrey A Fowler, DOProgram Director, Interventional Cardiology Appointed Since July 2022 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
50 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
30 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$82,625First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
4.5XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Pittsburgh, PA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Pittsburgh has a slightly higher-than-average crime rate compared to the national average. However, specific neighborhoods within the city vary in safety levels, so it's advisable to research the area where you'll be living.
- Fun Activities: Pittsburgh is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, sports events, numerous parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities along its three rivers.
- Climate: Pittsburgh experiences all four seasons, with cold winters, warm summers, and beautiful fall foliage.
- Races and Population: Pittsburgh is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The city has a population of around 300,000 people.
- Education: Pittsburgh is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Pittsburgh is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the US, particularly in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Pittsburgh is approximately a 5-hour drive from Philadelphia and a 6-hour drive from New York City. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences, entertainment, and employment opportunities.
- Pros: Vibrant arts and culture scene, affordable cost of living, beautiful outdoor scenery.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate in some areas, cold winters.