Women in Cardiology

We are an organization of physicians from the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (Department of Medicine) and the Division of Cardiovascular Surgery (Department of Surgery) focused on issues and challenges unique to women in cardiovascular-related fields. The group is co-chaired by Cardiovascular (CV) Medicine faculty member Angela Taylor, MD, with Cardiology Fellow LeAnn Denlinger, MD, serving as the fellows’ chair.

The specialties of cardiovascular medicine and cardiovascular surgery have been largely dominated by men over the years–a trend that has not changed much in recent times. A 2009 survey from the American College of Cardiology found that women represented only about 12% of general cardiologists and less than 10% of those in advanced CV specialties. Reasons cited by respondents for not specializing in cardiology included the long years of training, difficulties with work/life balance, and perceived radiation risks. Thus a key part of our mission is offering mentorship to medical students and residents considering CV-related fields, as well as support to women already in CV fellowships.

The group meets monthly to discuss clinical, research, and professional issues; over time it has broadened to include women cardiologists in the Charlottesville area and beyond. We are also actively involved in community health programs.

Our focus on professional education and development includes a journal club and sponsorship of speakers in the Cardiology Grand Rounds series.

We welcome your participation. To find out more, contact: Angela Taylor, MD