Scholarly Activities

The fellowship program is designed not only to provide fellows with comprehensive clinical training but also to foster an environment that encourages scholarly growth and innovation. Our fellows are an integral part of advancing the field of cardiology through a variety of academic and research activities.

1. Research Opportunities

Fellows have the opportunity to participate in a diverse range of research projects. Additionally, each fellow is encouraged to initiate or join ongoing projects, contributing to the growing body of evidence that will shape future clinical practices.

2. Mentorship and Collaboration

Fellows at Mary Washington Healthcare are paired with faculty mentors who guide them through their scholarly activities. Mentors provide support in research design, grant writing, manuscript preparation, and navigating the publication process. Additionally, fellows collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experts in cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, pharmacology, and more. This collaborative environment enables fellows to expand their research horizons, offering them unique perspectives on how to tackle complex cardiovascular problems and refine their scholarly skills.

3. Academic Presentations and Publications

Fellows are encouraged to present their research at regional and national cardiology conferences, including those held by the American College of Cardiology (ACC), American Heart Association (AHA), and other renowned cardiovascular organizations. Fellows are also supported in publishing their research in medical journals, with guidance on manuscript submission and peer review processes.

4. Educational Engagement and Teaching

Fellows actively participate in the education of medical students, residents, and junior fellows. Through formal teaching sessions, case presentations, and teaching rounds, fellows refine their communication and teaching skills, while contributing to the development of future cardiovascular specialists. Fellows also have opportunities to engage in curriculum development, offering valuable input into how cardiology topics are taught to learners at various levels.

5. Quality Improvement and Patient Safety

Fellows will engage in quality improvement (QI) projects aimed at enhancing patient care and safety within the cardiovascular department. Fellows work with hospital administrators, clinical teams, and research staff to identify areas of improvement, implement evidence-based strategies, and measure the outcomes of their interventions. This hands-on experience not only improves patient outcomes but also strengthens fellows’ leadership and problem-solving skills