USA Health Program

The Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program at USA Health provides a comprehensive three-year training experience accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program is designed to equip fellows with the skills needed for successful careers in clinical, academic, and research settings, conforming to the American College of Cardiology's training recommendations (COCATS 4) for adult cardiovascular medicine.

Located in Mobile, Alabama, the program primarily takes place at the USA Health University Hospital, a 125-bed acute care facility featuring an active emergency department, level 1 trauma service, and a robust cardiac surgery program. Fellows are given extensive exposure to various invasive cardiology procedures, including percutaneous coronary interventions, diagnostic catheterization, and electrophysiological procedures. The annual volume includes around 1,000 adult invasive cardiac procedures, providing a busy but educational environment.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship's structure is designed to maximize clinical exposure while ensuring that educational objectives are met through a combination of rotations. Fellows will engage in:

• **Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (4-8 months):** Gaining competency in diagnostic cardiac catheterization procedures, temporary pacing, and direct patient care.
• **Cardiac Electrophysiology Laboratory (2 months):** Exposure to various electrophysiological interventions, including pacemaker and AICD implantation.
• **Coronary Care Unit/Consultation Rotations (9 months):** Managing critically ill patients and consulting on cardiology cases.
• **Non-Invasive Cardiac Laboratories (8 months):** Conducting echocardiography, ECG interpretations, and stress testing.
• **Nuclear Cardiology (2 months):** Training in non-invasive imaging techniques.
• **Advanced Imaging and Electives (3 months):** Opportunities to explore specialized imaging techniques and research interests.

Each fellow typically has a half-day outpatient clinic weekly, ensuring continuity of patient care and the development of outpatient management skills.

Research and Academic Experience

Fellows are expected to engage in research activities, which are pivotal for their professional development. The program emphasizes the importance of scholarly activity, and all fellows participate in clinical research projects. The flexible nature of the program allows fellows to tailor their research experiences based on individual interests and career goals, with faculty mentors available to guide them in developing their projects.

Training Sites and Learning Environment

The USA Health University Hospital serves as the primary training site, supported by additional facilities like the USA Health Stanton Road Clinic and affiliated hospitals which provide comprehensive outpatient and emergency care experiences. The environment fosters a collaborative learning atmosphere, while the faculty comprises multiple experienced specialists in various aspects of cardiology, enhancing the rich educational landscape for fellows.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Admission to the fellowship is highly competitive. The program seeks candidates who exhibit strong clinical skills, research aptitude, and a commitment to the field of cardiology. Applicants, particularly from international medical backgrounds, should ideally have completed their medical education within the last five years and demonstrate proficiency in English. Failure to achieve a passing score in Step 1 or Step 2 of the USMLE on the first attempt may affect candidacy. Also, candidates must be eligible for J-1 visa sponsorship, as the program does not sponsor H-1B visas.

Benefits and Support

The fellowship program offers several benefits, including a generous leave policy and tuition reimbursement for family members enrolled in the University of South Alabama. This support reflects the program's commitment to education, well-being, and the professional development of its fellows.

Conclusion

Overall, the USA Health Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship Program stands out for its structured curriculum, extensive clinical exposure, and supportive faculty environment, preparing fellows for successful careers across various cardiology domains.