The Cardiovascular Disease Program at Michigan State University and Sparrow Health Systems is dedicated to providing a curriculum containing a variety of educational experiences which allow sub-specialty residents to develop into highly qualified cardiovascular disease specialists.

The overall goal of the program is that by the completion of the core elements (three years) the sub-specialty resident will have had the opportunity to have gained experience in current treatments, techniques and procedures in the clinical, educational and research settings. The sub- specialty residents will be able to competently manage the care of a patient with a cardiovascular related problem including a thorough and focused history and physical examination, identification and interpretation of relevant cardiovascular and laboratory testing, development of a problem oriented assessment including treatment options, execution of a treatment plan and documentation of care delivery in accordance with medical record documentation standards. In addition the sub-specialty resident will become proficient in performing and interpreting a variety of tests and procedures common to the practice of cardiology. Research opportunities are available and required for all sub-specialty residents. This experience allows the resident to design, implement, analyze and present data and publish results.

The modalities utilized in the instruction of the sub-specialty residents include our Cardiology Grand Rounds which provide didactic lectures and case reviews, Journal Club for literature review, Basic Science Conference, Pathology Conference and Research Conference. Additionally, all sub-specialty residents are required to participate in either ongoing research projects or work with a faculty member on the development of a project. Current ongoing projects include clinical trials, Cardiac MRl, vascular and basic laboratory activities.

Performance levels are monitored through both the monthly evaluation process as well as the biannual core competencies evaluation which provides both positive and critical feedback. As skill levels develop the sub-specialty resident is given additional responsibilities. Direct supervision is provided by attending physicians with graduated supervision as the sub-specialty residents progress through the training program.

Since Michigan State University does not have an attached hospital complex work is done in associated community based hospitals, primarily Sparrow Hospital. Our referral sources are many and varied for both outpatient and inpatient activities. These include private physicians, Internal Medicine Residency Program, Family Practice, Ingham County Health Department and others. Our comprehensive referral base allows the sub-specialty residents to experience a broader exposure to the population that traditionally sponsored programs. Where necessary, some specialty rotations are arranged outside. These include the Cardiac Transplant-Heart Failure rotation at Henry Ford Health Systems and an intensive cardiac catheterization rotation through the MSU Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies at Borgess Medical Center. Overall, sub-specialty residents are trained in keeping with the ACC and COCATS guidelines.

All graduates are eligible for the cardiology boards and are well prepared for a successful career in clinical and/or educational cardiology.