The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) was interested in developing a specialised training programme for cardiac arrhythmias, tailored specifically to experts who have earned their stripes and want to take their careers one step further; for example, by leading a hospital cardiology department. Several universities and university medical centres, including those in Barcelona, London, and Hamburg, were in the running. The ESC ultimately chose Maastricht as its first pick.

Leadership
The new training programme is called DAS-CAM (Diploma of Advanced Studies in Cardiac Arrhythmia Management) and will initially accept thirty experts in the field of cardiac arrhythmias. The integrated, two-year programme focuses primarily on developing leadership skills, but also incorporates the latest insights from the scientific community. 'This programme is an investment in training a new generation of leaders,' says Crijns. 'We're very proud to have been given the opportunity to play an active role.' Dr Kevin Vernooy from Maastricht UMC+ is one of the participants.

Care, research, and education
Maastricht UMC+ has extensive experience and expertise in treating cardiac arrhythmias. The institute is known for applying innovative techniques, such as hybrid ablation and the Sensei robot, and works closely with the Maastricht research institute CARIM to study the development and prevalence of cardiac arrhythmias. 'The training programme marks the start of a new and wholly unique branch of education,' adds Crijns. 'This recognition on the world stage gives our centre of expertise, which specialises in cardiac arrhythmias, added allure.'

For more information, please visit: www.dascam.org.