FORT WAYNE, IND. – A preventive cardiovascular clinic recently opened at the Parkview Heart Institute, providing multi-disciplinary care to patients at risk of heart disease. The Cardiovascular Health and Wellness Clinic allows patients to meet with a nurse practitioner to review their personal and family health history, as well as assess their overall cardiovascular risk, and complete a biometric assessment along with a comprehensive physical exam. Patients may also consult with a dietitian, enroll in life coaching, are encouraged to initiate a cardiovascular-oriented exercise program and take part in group education, in addition to other self-improvement directives related to cardiovascular health.
“When a patient is seen in a cardiology office, cardiovascular disease has generally already been detected and, often, the consequences of that disease identified. At that point, we work toward altering the impact caused by the disease on their daily function, longevity and quality of life,” said Roy Robertson, MD, president, Parkview Heart Institute. “The Cardiovascular Health and Wellness Clinic is designed to offer primary and secondary prevention by educating, encouraging and assisting individuals with behavior changes that will reduce their risk of developing heart disease or slow its progression.”
Primary preventive cardiology seeks to prevent the onset of heart disease by reducing risk factors. Such behavior changes might include incorporating routine physical activity and a heart healthy diet, stress reduction, tobacco cessation or maintaining a healthy weight. Screening for cardiovascular disease to detect it in its early stages is approached with testing such as a HeartSmart CT scan, lipid testing, blood glucose testing and blood pressure assessment. Once identified, secondary preventive cardiology focuses on preventing progression of cardiovascular disease through lifestyle and treatment measures.
To make an appointment at the Cardiovascular Health and Wellness Clinic, call 260-266-5680.