This year, the focus of the education session was women in the workforce. Women cardiologists in Spain make up just over 40% of the workforce, while here in the US they represent about 15%. Drs. Jennifer Co-Vu and Mikki Lake participated in a live panel discussion titled “Cardio On Air: Women in Cardiology” at the Sociedad Española de Cardiología’s Casa del Corazón, exploring the reasons for the disparity and possible solutions. The SEC was represented by Drs. Cristina Lozano and Leticia Fernández López. Moderated by Dr. Luis Rodríguez Padial, the discussion fostered dialogue among women cardiologists from Spain and the United States, highlighting the importance of collaboration.
Our hospital preceptorships and visits began with a visit to Dr. José Luis Zamorano Marín and his team at Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, who are piloting an artificial intelligence system to improve patient outcomes. Next, we visited Dr. Javier Bermejo and his cardiology team at Hospital Gregorio Marañón, where Dr. María Ángeles Espinosa Castro discussed genetic detection and imaging for cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias. Dr. Felipe Atienza shared insights on Corify, a startup developing a novel non-invasive device to map cardiac arrhythmias in real time during cardiologist office visits.
Our group then traveled to Córdoba, a city rich in history and stunning architecture. That evening, we were warmly welcomed into Dr. Manuel Anguita's home for an incredible reception featuring traditional food, drink, flamenco music, and dancing.
At our visit to the Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Dr. Anguita and his team explained their regional cardiology service models. The hospital tour was impressive, but even more so was Manuel’s tour guide expertise as he led us through the magnificent Mezquita, the Alcázar, and the Jewish Quarter, each corner revealing the rich tapestry of Córdoba's past.
In summary, this trip not only enriched our understanding of cardiology but also deepened our connections with colleagues across the globe. Each experience, from engaging discussions to cultural explorations, highlighted the beauty of collaboration and friendship. In order to fully appreciate the charm and significance of this journey, you must experience it for yourself. Be sure to sign up for next year’s visit!
Sincerely,
David N. Kenigsberg, MD, FACC, FHRS
President, Florida Chapter ACC
