Earlier this summer, Southwest Health System announced the enhancement of its cardiology services by introducing cutting-edge echocardiogram and stress testing technology to Southwest Memorial Hospital.
The goal of this upgrade is to provide residents with more advanced heart care and services that reduce the need for long-distance travel.
This upgrade is part of a partnership between Southwest Health System and Montrose Regional Health, according to a press release from SHS. The collaboration was designed to combine the resources and expertise of both institutions while ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and high-quality cardiac care from providers in their communities.
“Our mission is to deliver exceptional care to our community, and this investment in cardiology services is a reflection of that commitment,” CEO Joe Theine said. “By bringing these advanced tools to our facility and working closely with Montrose Regional Health, we’re ensuring that patients in the Four Corners area have access to the same level of cardiac diagnostics found in larger metropolitan centers – without the need to travel.”
The new echocardiogram technology delivers detailed, real-time imaging of the heart’s structure and function, which will allow for the evaluation of various heart conditions. In addition, the advanced treadmill stress testing added to the hospital will assess cardiovascular performance under physical stress, which is needed to diagnose issues like coronary artery disease and arrhythmias, among others.
The hospital added that these tools will strengthen the hospital’s ability to manage a wide range of heart conditions quickly and effectively.
Though Southwest Health System provided echocardiogram and stress testing services before this, the new equipment will aid in providing more accurate diagnoses.
“While echocardiogram and stress testing services have long been available at SHS, we are now proud to offer the latest, state-of-the-art technology to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient care. SHS encourages individuals with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular risk factors to speak with their primary care provider about whether these tests are appropriate for them,” the hospital said.
