Training pediatric heart surgeons is a significant global challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These regions often lack comprehensive pediatric heart centers, and specialized training is limited. In many cases, surgeons who primarily perform adult heart operations also handle pediatric cases, leading to suboptimal care. For instance, in India, only 7-10% of neonates and infants with congenital heart defects (CHD) receive timely surgery. The country needs approximately 1,000 dedicated pediatric heart surgeons, but currently has fewer than 501.

Globally, there are stark disparities in access to cardiac surgical care. High-income countries have significantly more pediatric cardiac surgeons per million population compared to low-income countries. For example, sub-Saharan Africa has only 0.08 pediatric cardiac surgeons per million population, while North America has 2.08. This disparity highlights the urgent need to increase human and physical resources in low-resource settings to improve access to cardiac surgery for the 4.5 billion people without adequate care2.

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the shortage of pediatric heart surgeons is a critical issue. For example, India needs around 1,000 dedicated pediatric heart surgeons but has fewer than 50, resulting in only 7-10% of neonates and infants with congenital heart defects (CHD) receiving timely surgery1. The disparity is even more pronounced in sub-Saharan Africa, which has only 0.08 pediatric cardiac surgeons per million population, compared to 2.08 in North America2. This significant shortfall underscores the need for increased training and resources to improve pediatric cardiac care in these regions.

Several hospitals worldwide are recognized for their excellence in pediatric cardiology and cardiac surgery. Texas Children's Hospital in Houston consistently ranks No. 1 for pediatric cardiology and heart surgery, known for its comprehensive care and high success rates1. Duke Children's Hospital and Health Center in Durham, NC, offers advanced treatments and has a strong reputation for clinical outcomes1. Boston Children's Hospital, affiliated with Harvard Medical School, is renowned for pioneering research and innovative treatments1. In New York City, NewYork-Presbyterian Children's Hospital-Columbia and Cornell provides integrated care through its Congenital Heart Center, one of the largest in the nation1. Cleveland Clinic Children's is also highly regarded, particularly for its congenital heart surgery team and advanced imaging techniques1.

For families seeking pediatric cardiac surgeons, several online directories offer valuable resources:

• Bookimed: Lists top pediatric cardiac surgeons worldwide, detailing their expertise, work experience, education, and patient reviews. This platform allows for comparison and informed decision-making.

• Healthgrades: Enables users to find and compare pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons across the United States, featuring patient reviews and ratings.

• Columbia Doctors: Provides information on specialists at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, including their services and expertise.

• NYU Langone Health: Lists pediatric cardiac surgeons affiliated with NYU Langone Health, highlighting their specialties and credentials.

• CHRISTUS Health: Offers details on pediatric cardiothoracic surgery services, including the expertise of their medical team123.