The Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Drexel College of Medicine offers one non-accredited fellowship position in cardiothoracic surgery each year. This position is typically offered to physicians who have either completed cardiothoracic training elsewhere and are looking for additional training opportunities, or who are not candidates for the ACGME-accredited program but are looking for complete training in adult cardiac surgery. The duration of the training program is variable, and typically is either one or two years. The program is designed to provide the trainee with all of the skills necessary to be an outstanding adult cardiac surgeon, both in- and outside of the operating room. The operative experience of each fellow is directly related to his/her skill level and progressively increases as he/she progresses through the training program.

The non-accredited cardiac surgery fellow is a valuable member of the surgical team, which consists of the fellow, a first-year accredited trainee, a general surgery resident, and a third-year trainee who acts as the chief of the service. The call and patient-care duties are shared by all members of the team, and the chief divides the operative cases amongst the members of the team based on the skill level of each member and the educational opportunities provided by each case.

The Fellowship in Cardiothoracic Surgery program at Hahnemann provides an excellent opportunity for additional training in cardiothoracic surgery, or it can serve to provide a strong experience in cardiac surgery for a physician who is considering a career in cardiothoracic surgery. The program teaches both the operative and non-operative aspects of cardiothoracic surgery. Graduates are able to see patients with cardiothoracic diseases, develop an appropriate plan of care, perform all components of the operation, and provide excellent post-operative care.