FHRS for International Electrophysiologists

The Fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society (FHRS) credential exemplifies advanced training, certification and commitment to the field of electrophysiology. FHRS will help to distinguish you among health care providers and researchers for your advanced training, certification, and commitment to the field of electrophysiology. It will clarify the referral process and serve as a credential for quality care among health care providers, patients, the media, and government. As a result, it will help you to publicize your skill in the treatment and/or research of heart rhythm disorders.

Eligibility Criteria

Note: Electrophysiologists who trained in Canada may also apply using the ABIM/AOBIM-certified Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiologist criteria if those criteria are met. 

To meet the criteria for Fellowship in the Heart Rhythm Society as an International Electrophysiologist (EP), you must*:

1. Hold current membership with the Heart Rhythm Society as a International Physician member 
2. Have performed a minimum of 150 intracardiac, catheter-based ablation procedures or device-related procedures during training and/or in the first two years after completion of training, or in the previous three years of practice
3. Have completed training and practiced EP/pacing for at least two years after completion of training
4. Demonstrate EITHER
   • Certification in EP/Pacing by ABIM, IBHRE, EHRA or equivalent organizations OR 
   • At least 75 percent of clinical practice devoted to heart rhythm disorders PLUS one of the following
     • Have performed a minimum of 300 intracardiac, catheter-based ablation procedures or device-related procedures during training and/or in the first two years after completion of training, or in the previous three years of practice
     • Have authored at least 10 publications, including 5 as first author
     • Have served at least one term as a volunteer on an HRS or IBHRE committee, sub-committee or writing group

How to Apply

1. Reach out to two current FHRS members and have them write sponsor/endorsement letters for you.
2. Write a letter stating your intent to apply and provide information about your training and experience according to the eligibility criteria.
3. Use the online application form to
   • Upload a copy of your CV / resume / biosketch
   • Upload your cover letter 
   • Upload two letters of support from current FHRS members
   • Upload one letter confirming 12 months of U.S. ABIM-equivalent CCEP training and professional activities (view the ABIM CCEP training, procedural and clinical competence requirements) from EITHER:
     • Your former training program director OR
     • The person who is now the program director at the institution where you received your training OR
     • Your current clinical or administrative supervisor
   • Pay your FHRS $135 application fee

You must begin your application using the online application form, but if you do not have all of your materials for upload, you can send them to [email protected]

Application Process

Completed applications from eligible candidates are considered by Membership staff and Membership Committee. Please allow approximately three weeks for the review of your application. Applications are accepted and considered throughout the year. FHRS status is conferred immediately upon approval. 

The deadline for submitting a completed FHRS application in time for recognition at the upcoming Heart Rhythm Annual Meeting is April 15. After that date, you can be approved for FHRS status, but it may be too late for recognition at the annual meeting.

* The Society recognizes that we have a diverse membership with a variety of training and career paths. If you do not appear to be eligible for FHRS but would still like to be considered, you may petition the Membership Committee for review. Please contact [email protected] for details.

Membership Dues

Once accepted, annual physician membership dues for FHRS members are:

Physicians Living Outside the United States: World Bank High or Upper-Middle Income Countries

Physicians Living Outside the United States: World Bank Low or Lower-Middle Income Countries

HRS offers special membership rates for those who live in countries that are classified as low or lower-middle income by the World Bank. As of April 2020, the first year of membership is complimentary for new applicants. After the first year, dues rates are offered at a 50% discount off our international rates.

Frequently Asked Questions about FHRS

Have questions? Try our FHRS FAQ page or contact [email protected]