More than 70 community members attended Heart Health in Rural America, an educational program focused on cardiovascular health.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Pete Whitley, Director of Cardiovascular Services at Phelps Memorial Health Center, who emphasized the importance of education, awareness, and access to quality cardiac care in rural communities.
The featured presentation was delivered by Dr. Douglas Netz, MD, FACC, a cardiologist with Pioneer Heart Institute. Dr. Netz shared national data illustrating the challenges rural communities face when it comes to heart disease and access to specialty cardiology care.
“Eighty-two percent of rural counties in the United States have no cardiologists, and patients often travel an average of 82.7 miles to see a heart specialist,” Dr. Netz said. “Rural communities also face higher rates of cardiac risk factors, including tobacco use, hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.”
Dr. Netz reviewed key facts about heart disease in rural America and discussed what he referred to as “The Big Four” cardiac conditions:
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Congestive Heart Failure
• Atrial Fibrillation
• Valvular Heart Disease
For each condition, he outlined common symptoms and risk factors. He also reviewed treatment options, including lifestyle changes, medication management, diagnostic testing, and interventional procedures when appropriate.
The program highlighted the strength of the local cardiology team at Phelps Memorial Health Center, including Sadie Johnson, PA-C, and Cheryl Klausen, APRN, who play an essential role in patient care and coordination. Dr. Netz and three other cardiologists from Pioneer Heart Institute regularly see patients in Holdrege, allowing individuals to receive specialty cardiology services close to home.
Phelps Memorial Health Center remains committed to improving heart health through education and expanded access to cardiovascular services. Community members interested in learning more about cardiology services or scheduling an appointment are encouraged to contact the Phelps Memorial Health Center Cardiovascular Clinic.
