“Evidence has shown that lowering LDL levels” – so-called bad cholesterol – “through lifestyle changes or medications can reduce a person’s risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD),” Health First Medical Group Interventional Cardiologist Thierry Momplaisir, MD, recently told Brevard Business News.

And for 20 million Americans with chronic coronary artery disease, a heart-healthy diet and active lifestyle are the best ways to stop or reverse the condition. But for these and many more heart disease sufferers, there’s world-class acute care at Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center’s Heart Center, said Momplaisir and HFMG Cardiothoracic Surgeon Tamim Antaki, MD.

“What’s great about this institution [Health First] is that they are committed to staying ahead of the curve in cardiac care and making sure they are providing patients with the best possible options. So, the tools we have right now to stabilize the patient are amazing, as is The Heart Center team. This is all about teamwork," Dr. Momplaisir said.

Dr. Antaki pointed out Health First’s investment in surgical robots has not only cut down on open conversion rates – the rate at which a minimally invasive surgery shifts to open-cavity due to complications – but greatly reduced recovery times for patients and time spent in the hospital. Dr. Momplaisir highlighted the adoption of temporary catheter heart pumps for patients in heart failure.

“I think it’s impossible for me to overstate the level of care that is available in this area,” Health First Foundation President Michael Seeley told the publication.

READ the complete feature in Brevard Business News HERE.