Variations in Adult Congenital Heart Disease Training in Adult and Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship Programs

Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate adult congenital heart disease (CHD) training among U.S. cardiology fellowship programs. Background Although training recommendations for caring for adults with CHD exist, the educational patterns and numbers of specialists remain unknown. Methods We surveyed U.S. directors of 170 adult cardiology and 45 pediatric cardiology (PC) fellowship programs. Adult program surveys contained 1 single-response and 10 multiple-choice questions; pediatric program surveys contained 1 single-response and 13 multiple-choice questions. Results Ninety-four adult cardiology fellowship directors (55%) and 34 PC directors (76%) responded. Of adult programs, 70% were in university hospitals and 40% were associated with PC groups. Those with PC-affiliation had more adult CHD clinics (p Conclusions Adult CHD didactic and clinical experiences for cardiology fellows vary widely. Few programs offer advanced CHD training, and the number of specially trained physicians is unlikely to meet projected workforce requirements. Adult cardiology programs with PC affiliation have increased CHD experience and might provide good educational models.