February/March
2 013
Cardiac Rhythm Management UNC Embraces the Expanded Benefits of a Multidisciplinary Team Approach
T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R H E A LT H C A R E P R O F E S S I O N A L S
Also in This Issue
Welcome Harold Tate, M.D. Bad Medical Websites
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COVER STORY
6
Cardiac Rhythm Management UNC Embraces the Expanded Benefits of Multidisciplinary Team Approach
february/march 2013
FEATURES
8
Practice Marketing
How to Avoid the Pitfalls of Bad Medical Websites Amanda Kanaan explains basic techniques for keeping a website fresh and friendly that can help position a practice as progressive and ahead of the rest.
15
Physician Profile
New Interventional Radiologist Specializes in Vascular Access Care Harold Tate, M.D., is the new medical director of Vascular Access Center of Durham, and the medical community is invited to meet him April 4.
Vol. 4, Issue 2
DEPARTMENTS 12 Duke Research News
18 UNC Research News
Defect in Immune Memory May Cause Repeat Bladder Infections
New Conclusions May Be Key to Unlock Heart Failure Treatment Stalemate
13 Duke News State-of-the-Art Trent Semans Center Opens to Medical Profession Students
16 UNC News Innovative Neuroscience Surgical Lab Supports Eye Bank’s Sight Mission
17 UNC News
19 News
- Rex Healthcare Earns A+ Bond Rating - Raghunathan Joins Raleigh Neurology
20 News
- Celebrate Heart Health Month with Rex - Welcome to the Area and Upcoming Events
Physician Assistant Degree Program to Benefit Veterans, Lessen Shortage
COVER PHOTO: From left to right: Dr. James Foster, Dr. Anil Gehi, Dr. Andy Kiser, Dr. Jennifer Schwartz, Dr. Eugene Chung and Dr. Paul Mounsey.
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The Triangle Physician
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From the Editor
Best of Both Worlds T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R H E A LT H C A R E P R O F E S S I O N A L S
This issue of The Triangle Physician features a cover story with an introduction by University of North Carolina Health Care cardiac electrophysiologist Paul Mounsey and cardiothoracic surgeon Andy Kiser. In it, they explain how a multidisciplinary approach focused on the treatment of atrial fibrillation expands the options for patients whose treatment using conventional drugs and catheter-
Editor Heidi Ketler, APR
heidi@trianglephysician.com
based ablation separately failed or is contraindicated.
Contributing Editors Amanda Kanaan
Additional contributors to the cover story are Drs. Anil K. Gehi, Eugene H.
Photography Mark Jacoby
Chung and Jennifer D. Schwartz, all electrophysiology colleagues within UNC who explain the various collaborative treatments for AF. For instance, Dr. Gehi discusses their hybrid ablation procedure that combines the benefits of surgical access with catheter ablation strategies in a minimally invasive procedure that minimizes risk and recovery time and is about 75 percent effective in achieving arrhythmia and symptom control in specified patient populations. Also in this issue, Harold Tate, an interventional radiologist and the new medical
Creative Director Joseph Dally
mark@jacobyphoto.com
jdally@newdallydesign.com
Advertising Sales info@trianglephysiciancom News and Columns Please send to info@trianglephysician.com
The Triangle Physician is published by: New Dally Design
director with Vascular Access Center of Durham, is profiled. The medical community is invited to meet Dr. Tate at an open house April 4. Returning as a contributing editor is Amanda Kanaan, who discusses five of the best ways physicians can maintain an updated website. The Triangle Physician, a compilation of freshly written cover stories and profiles, hospital and practice news and medical perspective, is the product of collaboration among many. All 9,000-plus medical professionals within the greater Triangle area are invited to submit your news and expert perspectives at no charge. Consider the qualities of this elite target audience and you will appreciate our advertising rates, which are very competitive. Thanks to all who came together to provide a snapshot of the very best in health care delivered right here in our region.
Heidi Ketler Editor
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The Triangle Physician
Subscription Rates: $48.00 per year $6.95 per issue Advertising rates on request Bulk rate postage paid Greensboro, NC 27401
Every precaution is taken to insure the accuracy of the articles published. The Triangle Physician can not be held responsible for the opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors are not the responsibility of The Triangle Physician. The Triangle Physician makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. All advertiser and manufacturer supplied photography will receive no compensation for the use of submitted photography. Any copyrights are waived by the advertiser. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission from The Triangle Physician.
Cover
Cardiac Rhythm Management in 2013 UNC Embraces the Expanded Benefits of a Multidisciplinary, Team Approach By J. Paul Mounsey, B.M., B.Ch., Ph.D., M.R.C.P., F.A.C.C.; and Andy C. Kiser, M.D.
Management of heart rhythm disturbanc-
For the small segment of the population
cized, instances of device and lead com-
es is playing an increasing part in the lives
prone to ventricular arrhythmias, sudden
ponent failures. Should this deter referral?
of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons.
death is prevented with automated defi-
This is partly because there is more that
brillators. Unfortunately, patients with de-
In this issue of The Triangle Physician we
we can do together about arrhythmias in
fibrillators can suffer painful and frighten-
want to explain how a multidisciplinary
2013 than ever before, and partly because,
ing defibrillator discharges (shocks) that
approach to the management of cardiac
as the population increasingly survives to
affect quality of life. When antiarrhythmic
arrhythmia patients, with close collabo-
older age, some arrhythmias – principally
drugs and conventional catheter ablation
ration among cardiac rhythm physicians,
atrial fibrillation – are more common.
fail, what other options can we explore?
nurses, technicians and nurse practitio-
Atrial fibrillation is now a treatable dis-
No one would deny that implantable car-
geons, allows us to offer practical solu-
ease in the vast majority of cases, and
diac rhythm management devices (pacers
tions to the most challenging heart rhythm
patients do not need to suffer the crip-
and defibrillators) have transformed the
patients. Our multidisciplinary, patient-
pling breathlessness and palpitations that
practice of cardiology and saved count-
centered approach to these uncommon
characterize the condition. Oftentimes,
less lives. But implant rates are currently
but important issues, along with conven-
conventional drugs and catheter-based
at an all-time low. This is obviously a com-
tional arrhythmia management strategies
ablation procedures are effective. But
plex issue, but one reason physicians may
in less challenging circumstances, means
what are the options when they are con-
be reluctant to refer patients for lifesaving
that all of our patient’s heart rhythm prob-
traindicated or fail?
device therapy is the rare, but well-publi-
lems can be managed at University of
ners, and importantly with cardiac sur-
North Carolina Health Care.
Hybrid Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: A New Paradigm By Anil K. Gehi, M.D.
For about 15 years, catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation with excellent results has been possible in many patients. The therapy sprung from the realization that the pulmonary veins were the origin of the electrical triggers that lead to atrial fibrillation. Isolation of the pulmonary veins by creating an electrical barrier between the Dr. Paul Mounsey and Dr. Andy Kiser discuss a case.
6
The Triangle Physician
are verified, and any gaps may be filled in. In addition, those areas that are inaccessible from the epicardial approach, are targeted. By working together, physicians and surgeons can do a minimally invasive procedure that offers the benefits and strengths of both approaches while still minimizing risk and recovery time. The hybrid ablation now means we can offer a good option for ablation in the vast majority of patients with atrial fibrillation, and the result is that AF symptoms can be controlled in the majority of patients. At UNC Health Care, we have performed this operation in more than 100 patients. The vast majority had either persistent or longstanding-persistent AF (that is AF lasting for more than a year). Most had structural heart disease (congestive heart failure, ischemic heart disease and hypertension) and obesity (body mass index greater than 30) and enlarged left atria (mean left atrial diameter of 5 centimeters). We were able to achieve arrhythmia control in approximately 75 percent of these patients, and perhaps more importantly, symptom control. Atrial fibrillation is a common and under-recognized Components of the epicardial and endocardial Maze procedure.
cause of disability in the middle-aged and elderly population. We at UNC recognize this and are at the forefront of efforts to control arrhythmia, but also to make patients feel well.
veins and the atria using a radiofrequency or cryoablation catheter via a transvenous approach can eliminate atrial fibrillation. Efficacy is limited, however, in patients with significant structural heart disease (e.g. hypertensive heart disease, congestive heart failure) or in those with persistent atrial fibrillation – and these form the majority who present for non-pharmacologic therapy.
Hybrid Approaches to Ventricular Tachycardia:
The gold standard surgical treatment for complex atrial fibrilla-
An Emerging Paradigm in Patients with Previous Cardiac Surgery
tion is the Maze procedure developed in the 1980s by James Cox.
By Eugene H. Chung M.D., F.A.C.C.
This is an open-chest operation where lines of electrical block in the atria are produced by a cut-and-sew technique. Efforts to
Ventricular tachycardia, a rapid rhythm of the heart originating
reproduce a Maze procedure using transvenous, catheter-based
in the ventricles, is the most common cause of sudden cardiac
techniques have yielded mixed results. The atrial substrate be-
death. Prevention of sudden cardiac death is achieved using im-
yond the pulmonary veins must seemingly be targeted, however,
plantable defibrillators, but patients with defibrillators who con-
achieving this with a catheter alone is challenging.
tinue to have ventricular tachycardia episodes can have incapacitating symptoms, including syncope and defibrillator shocks. In
At UNC Health Care, we are at the forefront of a hybrid technique
these patients, and in those rare patients with ventricular tachy-
for ablation in these more challenging patients. Using a minimally
cardia in the absence of life-threatening heart disease, symptom-
invasive endoscopic technique, either through a trans-diaphrag-
atic control of the arrhythmia is needed, and this can often be
matic or transthoracic approach, a cardiothoracic surgeon can
achieved with drugs, such as amiodarone and sotalol. But when
perform much of the necessary ablation on the epicardial surface
drugs fail a “surgical” approach is required.
of the left atrium. These ablation lesions are longer, more robust and more efficacious.
The simplest surgical approach – catheter ablation – works by targeting abnormally active areas of the ventricle, or vulnerable
Immediately following epicardial ablation, the electrophysiologist
isthmuses of diseased tissue in reentry circuits, using radiofre-
performs an endocardial ablation using a traditional transvenous
quency or cryoablation catheters introduced through the vascula-
approach. During the endocardial ablation, the epicardial lesions
ture. Three-dimensional anatomical mapping is essential to target
february/march 2013
7
Management of Patients with Pacer and Defibrillators: Teamwork Is Key
By Jennifer D. Schwartz, M.D.
Patients with pacemakers and implantable cardiac defibrillators at University of North Carolina Health Care are managed by a collaborative service of physicians and nurses. From the time of implant through monthly evaluations and battery replacements, our patients are monitored and supported. The Device Clinic follows the device patients in several ways. For pacemakers, patients can have their battery checked over the telephone and come to clinic to
Cryoablation lesion on the left ventricular epicardium.
be seen by our nurses and physicians on the correct location, and ablation of the
For example, we recently encountered
appropriate areas of the heart is used to
a 68-year-old man with old anterior myo-
create lines of scar to disrupt path of the
cardial infarction and coronary bypass
ventricular tachycardia (VT) circuits.
surgery. He had recurrent VT despite antiarrhythmic medication and two prior
On occasion, when patients have VT from
ablation attempts. We performed a left an-
scarring on the outside of the heart, the
terior thoracotomy (incision between the
ablation catheter needs to be placed in the
fifth and sixth ribs) to expose the heart.
pericardial space through a small incision
We could then visualize the scar tissue as
under the sternum. By studying the outside
well as the coronary artery branches that
of the heart, we can localize the origin of the
we needed to avoid. We demonstrated
VT and make ablation lesions on the epicar-
the extent of scar by mapping the epicar-
dial surface of the heart. Not uncommonly,
dium with a diagnostic catheter and then
it is necessary to ablate the abnormal cir-
induced the patient’s VT by pacing to con-
cuits both from the endocardium and the
firm that the arrhythmia indeed originated
epicardium during a single operation.
from this area. With a cryoablation probe, the cardiothoracic surgeon was then able
Epicardial VT ablation is generally limited
to make an encircling lesion on the epi-
to patients who have not had prior heart
cardium to isolate the scar.
surgery. Catheter access is easy and the pericardial space is open. But when the
At the end of the case, we could no longer
pericardial space is scarred, as after cardi-
induce VT, and the patient has been free
ac surgery, catheter ablation in the epicar-
of VT during follow up. Our collaborative
dium can be impossible. At UNC, where
approach, combining surgical access with
cardiothoracic surgeons and cardiac elec-
catheter ablation strategies, will permit
trophysiologists work together, we can of-
more patients with prior heart surgery to
fer VT ablation even in patients who have
undergo epicardial ablation offering hope
had prior cardiac surgery.
of symptom relief to the widest possible range of patients.
8
The Triangle Physician
a regular basis. For implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) patients and some pacemaker patients, in addition to regular clinic visits, participation in the remote monitoring program is encouraged. Through a module placed at their bedside, patients’ cardiac devices are in frequent contact with the UNC device nurses. The devices are constantly monitored for abnormalities that would alert us to an issue with either the leads or batteries. Pacemakers and ICDs provide lifesaving therapy for slow and fast heart rhythm abnormalities, but they are complex devices that can occasionally fail. Two groups of problems are encountered – problem with the transvenous leads and electrical problems with the devices and batteries themselves. All of these issues are very rare. Lead problems are more common than electrical device problems and result from mechanical trauma to the lead because of repetitive movement in the circulation, or very rarely, design issues with the leads themselves.
When problems occur, we have systems in place for rapid identification, patient notification and treatment. In the majority of cases, there is nothing further that needs to be done over and above heightened awareness of the potential issue during routine device follow up. Management of electrical problems with device pulse generators may require nothing more than a software download into the device and this can usually be accomplished non-invasively. Occasionally, however, a device pulse generator change will be necessary. Problems with device leads can be more challenging to manage and require close collaboration
between
the
patient’s
personal physician, the cardiac electrophysiologist and the cardiac surgeon. Sometimes, we elect to simply add a new electrode, but because retained non-func-
Laser lead extraction.
tioning electrodes can cause long-term problems, we usually elect to remove the
done in a hybrid procedure suite in close
Through this multidisciplinary service
lead. These leads can be scarred to the
collaboration with the cardiac surgeons.
involving electrophysiologists, cardiac
internal circulation, requiring the use of
During this same operation, after the lead
surgeons and nurses, our patients are re-
a laser to separate and remove the lead
is removed, a new lead can be placed us-
assured that we are constantly managing
without a large incision. At UNC, this is
ing a laser-tipped sheath.
and monitoring their cardiac devices.
The UNC multidisciplinary service  team includes electrophysiologists, cardiac surgeons and nurses.
february/march 2013
9
Practice Marketing
How to Avoid the Pitfalls of
Bad Medical Websites By Amanda Kanaan
So your practice has a website. That’s a good start. But if it’s no more than an online brochure, than you may not be reaping much of a return on your investment. According to a study by MedCity News of several hundred urologists, orthopedic surgeons and other practices: • 69 percent of physicians have websites but only 33 percent of them have anything more than biographical and practice information on it; • Only 4 percent made at least one blog post in the past 12 months to inform patients of trends and research. This means too many medical practices are ignoring the well-documented fact that most prospective patients search online for health care information – including provider resources. Some even chose their doctors online by forming an impression about their practice merely based on the quality of their website. The online brochure approach is grossly inadequate for today’s educated, involved and computer-centric health care con-
10
The Triangle Physician
sumer. Even worse, the “set-it-and-forget-it” mentality of practices that rarely update their website content means their site is likely to appear low on search engine results, which certainly doesn’t compel the reader to trust or even contact the provider. Here are five ways for you to avoid the pitfalls of an outdated website: 1. U pdate your website regularly
The easiest way to keep your website up to date is to write regular blogs (weekly or monthly). The word “blog” may conjure up ideas of online posts about life experiences. Don’t worry, in this case I mean brief (400 word) educational articles that keep patients up to date with the latest trends or advances in your specialty. It’s the same information you share with patients every day but just in written form. Implementing the blog (or a “News” section) directly on your website gives you the most benefit for your search engine rankings. 2. Present an attractive, updated design
Your website doesn’t have to be overdone with flashing images and music playing in the background, it just needs to look updated (i.e., not like it was designed during the start of the online revolution in the early ’90s). An attractive, yet simple design is most effective because it gives patients the sense that the site is updated yet keeps the navigation user-friendly.
Amanda Kanaan is the president and founder of WhiteCoat Designs, a North Carolinabased marketing agency catering specifically to physicians. WhiteCoat Designs offers doctors affordable marketing solutions to help them grow their practices. Services include website design, search engine optimization (SEO), social media management, online reputation monitoring, brochure and collateral design, branding makeovers and physician liaison services to build patient referrals. Ms. Kanaan can be reached at amanda@whitecoat-designs. com or (919) 714-9885. To learn more, visit www.whitecoat-designs.com.
3. Include patient education
You’ve probably had a patient ask you about health information they read on WebMD. There’s no denying that patients search for health information online. And who better to give it to them than their own doctor? Including patient education on your website will not only keep prospective patients on your website longer but it also positions you as the expert in your specialty. At the end of the day, you want patients and even referring physicians looking to you for advice, not WebMD. 4. Offer online tools
Online tools such as patient portals, online bill pay and the ability to download forms have become more than convenient patient perks. They are now the expectation. These tools are simple ways to increase patient satisfaction and set your website apart from your competitors.
5. Participate in social media
Physicians still have mixed reactions when it comes to social media. Most practices agree that patient-to-patient referrals are one of their largest sources of referrals, and social media is essentially an online megaphone for these interactions. The use of social media logos (e.g. a logo on your website that links to your Facebook page) also makes your website look more up to date, since this is still a relatively new trend that patients view as progressive. Social media is also a great way to share blogs, patient education and practice news with current patients, prospective patients and referring practices alike.
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If you want to set your practice apart online and really use your website to its full benefit then make sure your website is more than a stagnant source of simple contact information. Websites can be a powerful marketing tool that can attract patients and boost patient satisfaction when utilized to their full benefit.
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february/march 2013
11
Duke Research News
Defect in Immune Memory May Cause Repeat Bladder Infections Recurrent bladder infections, which are
making it unable to fully eradicate a per-
both the bladder and kidney, a strong an-
especially common among women, may
sistent population of bacteria.”
tibody response arose, indicating that the immune system recognized the invader
result from a defect among the bladder’s immune fighters that keeps them from re-
Like the gut and the liver, the bladder is
and could swiftly eradicate it. But among
membering previous bacterial infections.
involved in waste treatment and is fre-
those that originally had just the bladder
The immune memory lapse can hamper
quently exposed to bacterial invasion. But
infection, the immune system showed no
a timely and effective attack, according to
it has not been among the organs consid-
memory recall.
researchers at Duke Medicine and Duke-
ered “immune privileged,” in which the
National University of Singapore.
immune system operates under special
The cause was an unlikely source: mast
strategies for tolerating certain pathogens
cells. Best known for fighting allergies,
Their study, which involved mice, may
to keep it from over-activating. Not much
mast cells are responsible for triggering
provide a new route to develop vaccines
is understood about how the mucosal tis-
an early immune response against bacte-
and treatments for urinary tract infections,
sue in the bladder functions.
ria in the bladder, and in every instance, they sprung to action when confronted
which are the second-most common infection and account for more than 8 mil-
Dr. Abraham and colleagues examined
with the E. coli infection. But in some cas-
lion health care visits a year in the United
mouse bladders under conditions that
es, they then began producing a molecule
States, according to the National Institutes
closely mimic human infections; infec-
called interleukin-10, which suppresses
of Health.
tions remained in the bladder for some
the immune system. It was as if the im-
and traveled to the kidneys in others. In
mune system slammed on brakes, so the
“A third of recurring bladder infections are
both cases, they found that urinary tract
adaptive immune system never kicked
from the same strain of bacteria, so that
infections were typically met with a robust
into action to form antibodies that would
suggested to us that there is some sort of
inflammatory response from the innate
recognize a recurring invasion.
defect in the bladder that is causing this,”
immune system, which is the body’s first
said Soman N. Abraham, Ph.D., professor
line of defense and attacks all pathogens
Dr. Abraham said this function of mast
of pathology at Duke and Duke-NUS and
in a generalized fashion.
cells to limit the immune response may coincide with the shedding of the blad-
senior author of the paper published Feb. 14 in the journal Immunity. “We have iden-
After 21 days, both sets of mice were re-
der’s lining cells – a sort of cleansing
tified how a muted immune response to
infected, and here the groups diverged. In
mechanism that keeps bacteria from ac-
bacterial infections in the bladder occurs,
the mice that originally had an infection in
cumulating in the epithelial lining – and may be part of the bladder’s form of immune privilege to temper the inflammatory response. “It appears that the bladder, like the gut, has a highly specialized strategy for balancing tolerance and resisting infection,” Dr. Abraham said. “In most cases, muting the adaptive immune response in the bladder would not be a problem, because the infection would be cleared by the vigorous response of the early, innate immune response. But in some people, it’s causing recurrent infections, because the
Bladder infections that travel to the kidneys result in an immune response that builds antibodies to recognize and attack the pathogen. When the infection remains in the bladder, however, the immune response is led by mast cells, which initially fight the infection but also produce an immune suppressing molecule called interleukin-10 that disrupts the development of antibodies and thus stifles immune memory.
12
The Triangle Physician
bacteria hide in the epithelium and are not recognized by the adaptive immune system.”
Duke News Dr. Abraham said the findings could lead
In addition to Dr. Abraham, study authors
to the development of vaccines against
include Cheryl Y. Chan of Duke University
The study was support by grants from the NIH (R01 A135678, R01 DK077159, R01 A150021,
the bacteria or better treatments that bol-
Medical Center and Ashley L. St. John of
R37 DK50814 and R21 A1056101).
ster the antibody response.
Duke and Duke-NUS.
State-of-the-Art Trent Semans Center Opens to Medical Profession Students Duke University School of Medicine cel-
and our clinical operations and research
ers of health and medicine,” said Victor
ebrated the opening of the Mary Duke
facilities, puts medical education where it
J. Dzau, M.D., chancellor for health affairs
Biddle Trent Semans Center for Health
belongs – at the heart of everything we do.
and president and chief executive officer of
Education – the first new home for medi-
Duke has a long history of innovation, and
Duke University Health System.
cal education at Duke since 1930 – with a
now we have a facility that will allow our
dedication of the state-of-the-art classroom
faculty and students to shape the future of
In addition to the simulation labs, the Trent
and administrative building Feb. 8.
medical education – and the future lead-
Semans Center also includes a ground-
The new six-story, 104,000-square-foot health education building opened to students in January, featuring a floor dedicated to simulation laboratories that can transform from mock clinical exam rooms to surgery suites and emergency rooms. Construction of the $53 million Trent Semans Center took two years and was paid for almost entirely with philanthropic contributions, including $35 million from The Duke Endowment, part of a $50 million gift in 2008 that was the largest ever received by Duke Medicine. Alumni, friends, faculty, staff and medical students and their parents also generously supported the building fund. The new facility is centrally located on the medical center campus, close to Duke University Hospital, laboratory and research buildings, medical clinics, the Duke Cancer Center and a new hospital addition, Duke Medicine Pavilion, which will open in June 2013. “The location of this building – near our new hospital pavilion, our Cancer Center,
february/march 2013
13
Duke Research News floor auditorium, a learning hall and flex-
many great interactions – planned and
“The Trent Semans Center is unlike any
ible, state-of-the-art classrooms with move-
unplanned – among students, residents,
facility the medical school has ever had.
able walls and chairs to accommodate
fellows, postdocs, faculty and staff that will
The new training environment with the
team-based activities. Spaces on the third
transform medical education at Duke.”
simulation labs is incredible,” said Tanmay Gokhale, a fourth-year doctor of medicine
and fourth floors provide dedicated study rooms for students and areas where faculty
“The School of Medicine recruits excep-
and doctor of philosophy candidate who
and trainees can meet informally.
tionally talented students who become
was one of 40 students tapped to partici-
leaders in medicine and science,” said
pate in the building’s planning process.
“Until now, the School of Medicine didn’t
Nancy C. Andrews, M.D., Ph.D., dean of
“The building also encourages collabo-
have a centralized space where faculty
Duke University School of Medicine. “The
ration and sharing among students. The
and students could interact, both formally
new Trent Semans Center for Health Edu-
medical education space at Duke used to
and informally,” said Edward G. Buckley,
cation will be a spectacular place for them
be very fragmented, but now students from
M.D., vice dean for medical education.
to begin their professional education.”
all four years can gather together in one location to learn from one another.”
“The Trent Semans Center will lead to
The facility is named in honor of the late Mary Duke Biddle Trent Semans, who died Jan. 25, 2012, at the age of 91. Ms. Semans was the granddaughter of Benjamin Newton Duke, who was one of the chief benefactors of Trinity College that later became Duke University. Ms. Semans was a trustee of The Duke Endowment for 55 years and served as its first female chair from 19822001. “Since its inception in 1924, The Duke Endowment has been committed to improving health and health care in the Carolinas,” said Minor Shaw, the endowment’s board chair. “We believe that naming this facility for Mary honors her ties to the university and pays a fitting tribute to her remarkable life. We know that our founder, James B. Duke, and Mary would be proud to see this state-of-the-art building.” “We are thrilled to have our new center for health education named for Mary Semans and honored to be forever associated with the love she embodied for her fellow man, her community and all things Duke,” Dr. Andrews said. “This building is a wonderful tribute to our mother,” said Mary Jones, daughter of Mary Duke Biddle Trent Semans. “I hope her presence will serve as a constant reminder for the students and faculty here to never stop pushing boundaries in their quest to make the world a healthier place for all people.” Womens Wellness half vertical.indd 1
14
The Triangle Physician
12/21/2009 4:29:23 PM
Physician Profile
New Interventional Radiologist Specializes in Vascular Access Care Meet Harold Tate, M.D., at Open House April 4. Harold A. Tate, M.D., an experienced diagnostic radiologist, specializing in all aspects of vascular and interventional radiology, has joined Vascular Access Center of Durham as medical director. Vascular Access Centers is a national practice specializing in dialysis access care, screening and treatment of peripheral arterial disease. Here, health care teams led by interventional physicians are dedicated to the care and treatment of patients with access needs. “Vascular Access Centers offers an alternative setting for vascular procedures. Our expertise is in maintaining continued function, preservation and restoration of a patient’s access,” says Dr. Tate. “Vascular Access Centers provides the framework of resources and support that is essential for optimal clinical outcomes and improved quality of life for patients.”
Vascular Access Centers physicians are among the nations’ leaders in vascular access care. Dr. Tate graduated from the Howard University College of Medicine. He completed his diagnostic radiology training at the Martin Luther King Jr. Medical Center, University of California, Los AngelesCharles R. Drew University, Los Angeles, California, during which he served as chief resident in his fourth year. He completed a fellowship at the Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
State-of-Art Vascular Access Services
Dr. Tate is board-certified by the American Board of Radiology and earned its Certificate of Added Qualification in vascular and interventional radiology. He maintains an active membership in the Society of Interventional Radiology.
Expanded VAC of Durham services include central venous access for oncology, nutritional and medication delivery, and limb salvage.
“I am excited about this great opportunity at VAC of Durham to provide exceptional, expedient clinical care and excellent outcomes and unparalleled service to patients throughout this region,” Dr. Tate says.
Vascular Access Center of Durham offers hemodialysis fistula and graft interventions, complete catheter services and peripheral arterial disease screening and treatment. Comprehensive dialysis access maintenance includes thrombectomy/thrombolysis, fistulagrams, fistula maturation procedures, vessel mapping, central venous occlusion treatment and complete catheter services.
Get More Acquainted Vascular Access Centers operates in 21 locations throughout 13 states. VAC of Durham is the sole location in North Carolina. Dr. Tate comes to VAC of Durham from a practice in Texas. Prior to that, he served as a radiologist in the United States Air Force. In his spare time, Dr. Tate enjoys spending time with family, travel, motorcycling and sports. The Raleigh-Durham medical community is invited to meet Dr. Tate at VAC of Durham during an open house Thursday, April 4, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information about VAC’s specialized services and medical staff, patient referrals or appointments, call (919) 251-6605 or visit www.vascularaccesscenters.com. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
february/march 2013
15
UNC News
Innovative Neuroscience Surgical Lab Supports Eye Bank’s Sight Mission The North Carolina Eye Bank Multidisci-
• Ensure the wishes of donors and donor
The lab also houses three full-body surgi-
plinary Surgical Skills Laboratory at the
families are carried out to the greatest
cal stations and 16 cadaveric head or skull
extent possible;
surgical stations that will allow didactic,
University of North Carolina School of Medicine was dedicated with a ribboncutting ceremony in January.
• Maintain procedures to maximize quality-of-tissue distributed; and
simulation and cadaveric-based surgical education in eye, ear and neurosurgery.
• Work cooperatively with ophthalmoloThe new surgical training lab was built
gists and other pro-
thanks to a $1 million gift the North Caro-
fessional clients to
lina Eye Bank to the University of North
ensure optimal re-
Carolina School of Medicine. According
sults for recipients.
to a press advisory, the gift to the department of ophthalmology is being shared
The
among three neurosciences departments:
laboratory is the only
ophthalmology, neurosurgery and otolar-
one of its kind in the
yngology/head and neck surgery.
region, according to
newly
created
the press advisory. It “This laboratory is dedicated to the thou-
provides
sands of North Carolinians who unselfish-
art surgical training op-
ly provided the gift of sight that others may
portunities to medical
see again. We are proud to partner with
students, residents, fellows and physicians
The entire facility is wired for telecommu-
the University of North Carolina School
across the state.
nications, with both high-definition video
state-of-theSelma Kominek, M.D., is a fourth-year neurosurgery resident.
of Medicine in this endeavor,” said Dean
and audio, operative microscopes, pow“The new surgical train-
ered instrumentation, operating rooms
ing center will greatly
and distance education and web-based
enhance our educational
sources. This telecommunication will
mission by providing our
provide both distance-based and surgical
residents with a state-of-
simulation-based learning to medical stu-
the-art facility where they
dents, residents, fellows and current physi-
can practice and learn
cians of North Carolina.
from
our
world-class
surgeons,” said Donald
“This (gift) is a transformative investment
L. Budenz, M.D., M.P.H.,
in the training of ophthalmologists, neu-
professor and chair of
rosurgeons, and ENT surgeons,” said Mat-
ophthalmology.
thew Ewend, M.D., Van L. Weatherspoon
Mita Madan Fleischman, M.D., is a second-year ENT resident.
Jr. eminent distinguished professor and 3,500-square-foot
chair of the UNC department of neurosur-
Vavra, M.S., C.E.B.T., executive director of
surgical skills and biometrics laboratory
The
gery. “Patients can expect the physicians
the North Carolina Eye Bank Inc.
on the UNC campus occupies 19 stations,
of North Carolina who take advantage of
a 50-person conference room and an
this training lab will be armed with the
According to the press advisory, the North
800-square-foot simulation lab, with ac-
best and newest techniques. Surgeons-in-
Carolina Eye Bank mission in the state and
cess to high-fidelity simulators, such as
training can expect to practice and master
around the world is to:
robotic stations and anatomic computer-
their crafts in the lab prior to entering the
• Educate the public and medical com-
based simulators. The simulators allow
operating room. This lab is the future of
munities about the need for eye and
controlled proctoring and progressive
ophthalmologic and surgical training.”
tissue donors;
educational scoring of surgical skills.
16
The Triangle Physician
UNC News
Physician Assistant Degree Program to Benefit Veterans, Lessen Shortage Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Caro-
and primary care physicians. Some figures
lina and the UNC School of Medicine are
estimate that by 2020, there will be a na-
collaborating with the United States Army
tional shortage of about 150,000 physicians
Special Operations Command team at Fort
and 65,000 primary care physicians1. And
Bragg, N.C., to create a physician assistant
in North Carolina, almost 1 million people
Care chief executive officer. “Physician as-
master’s degree program for returning mili-
live in areas that do not have enough health
sistants play a vital role in the primary care
tary veterans.
care professionals to effectively serve their
setting, and our medically trained soldiers
communities2.
return to us well-equipped to meet the needs of underserved communities. North
The program will build on the medical experience and training that Special Forces
According to a UNC press release, the
Carolina, in particular, provides many op-
medical sergeants receive during their ser-
medical school will create a two-year cur-
portunities for our veterans who want to
vice and provide opportunities for veterans
riculum with training rotations at UNC hos-
pursue a long-term career in medicine.”
who want to transfer their unique and hard-
pitals and free clinics around the state. The
earned skills into the health care system.
program’s training will focus on primary
Since 2009, the UNC School of Medicine
This collaborative effort is designed to
care to meet the needs of underserved
and Joint Special Operations Medical Train-
improve health care access for North Caro-
communities in North Carolina.
ing Center (JSOMTC) at Fort Bragg have collaborated to enhance medical training,
linians by reducing the shortage of health “We know that the majority of our Special
care and innovation in underserved areas
Forces medical sergeants want to continue
of North Carolina. Their existing collabora-
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Caro-
their careers in medicine to help improve
tion will influence the development of the
lina (BCBSNC) has pledged $1.2 million
the health and lives of our citizens, but
new master’s degree program with an ex-
over the next four years to help the UNC
many are unsure of what path to take when
ecutive advisory board seeking input from
School of Medicine (UNC) establish the
they transition out of the military,” said
JSOMTC.
master’s curriculum and hire full-time pro-
United States Army Special Operations
gram staff. A significant portion of the grant
Command Surgeon Col. Peter J. Benson.
“I’m extremely proud that the University of
will provide scholarship funds through
“This program gives our veterans the edu-
North Carolina at Chapel Hill is part of this
the Medical Foundation of North Carolina
cation and opportunity to lend their unique
initiative,” said Chancellor Holden Thorp,
to assist Special Forces medical sergeants
health care and leadership skills to benefit
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
who have transitioned out of the military.
citizens across North Carolina.”
“It’s one more example of how our campus
care professionals in our state.
has worked with the United States Armed “Collaborating on creative approaches like
Research has indicated there will be high
Forces since World War I to train our sol-
this program will help us tackle the chal-
interest and participation in the program.
diers and to help the people of North Caro-
lenges our health care system is facing,”
A 2010 national survey of Special Forces
lina.”
said Brad Wilson, BCBSNC president and
medical sergeants revealed that nine out of
chief executive officer. “It’s a simple equa-
10 respondents wanted to pursue a career
The UNC master’s of physician assistant
tion: we need more physician assistants
in health care outside of a military setting,
studies degree program is in the early plan-
in North Carolina, and our veterans want
and about half were interested in becom-
ning stages and plans to enroll its first class
the jobs. When these medics return home,
ing a physician assistant3.
of student veterans in 2015.
perience in the field and use it to advance
“This collaboration is evidence of our
their careers and continue to care for pa-
shared commitment to veterans, provid-
tients.”
ing access to primary care and improving
References 1 Health Resources and Services Administration, 2012 2 North Carolina: Health Professional Shortage Areas, 2012 3 Journal of special operations medicine: a peer reviewed journal for SOF medical professionals, 2012
they’ll have the opportunity to take their ex-
the health of all North Carolinians,” said The United States and North Carolina are
Dr. William L. Roper, M.D., M.P.H., UNC
facing a deepening shortage of doctors
School of Medicine dean and UNC Health
february/march 2013
17
UNC Research News
New Conclusions May Be Key to Unlock Heart Failure Treatment Stalemate Despite a substantial increase in the num-
The analysis, co-authored
from defects in the body’s quality-control
ber of people suffering the debilitating and
by Dr. Patterson and
system for monitoring and maintaining
often deadly effects of heart failure, treat-
Monte Willis, M.D., Ph.D.,
proteins. Finally, studies of a rare genetic
ments for the condition have not advanced
associate professor of pa-
disorder link severe heart problems to mis-
significantly for at least 10 years. An analy-
thology and laboratory
folding of two proteins, known as desmin
medicine at UNC, appears
and CryAB.
sis by researchers at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine shows new
Monte Willis, M.D., Ph.D.
in the Jan. 31 issue of the
New England Journal of Medicine.
breakthroughs could be close.
The new conclusion opens enticing avenues for possible treatments, the advisory said.
The analysis points to striking similarities
The researchers say a vari-
Scientists studying Alzheimer’s and other
between heart cells in patients with heart
ety of recent studies point
neurological disorders have long focused on
failure and brain cells in patients with Al-
to one conclusion: mis-
ways to correct or prevent protein misfolding
zheimer’s disease, raising the possibility
folded proteins in heart
and have even developed drugs that accom-
that some treatment approaches being de-
cells are a key factor in the
plish this feat. “This raises the possibility that
process of heart failure.
that same type of strategy, and maybe even
“There’s a convergence of
some of those compounds, will be benefi-
data pointing to this being a real problem,”
cial in heart failure,” said Dr. Patterson. “It’s
said Dr. Patterson.
an entirely new treatment paradigm.”
sort of wear and tear affects the heart,” said
The analysis brings together three main
Heart failure, in which the heart fails to
Cam Patterson, M.D., M.B.A, UNC’s chief of
lines of evidence, according to a press
pump as effectively as it should, affects mil-
cardiology. “The good news is now that we
advisory. First, studies of heart tissue from
lions of adults in the United States. It can
recognize that – and can understand how
patients with heart failure reveal large ac-
result from heart attacks, coronary heart
the wear and tear actually affects proteins
cumulations of misfolded proteins within
disease and many other causes. Increases
in the heart – it offers us a new chance to
damaged heart cells, similar to the accumu-
in heart attack survival rates mean more
identify strategies to reverse that wear and
lations found in the brain cells of patients
people are living with the effects of heart
tear. It’s like providing a key to preventing
with Alzheimer’s. Second, recent studies
failure, including fatigue, shortness of
aging of the heart.”
using mice show heart problems can result
breath and increased mortality.
veloped for Alzheimer’s may also help reverse the damage from heart failure. “We know that Alzheimer’s is a process of
Cam Patterson, M.D., M.B.A.
wear and tear on the brain, and the same
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Celebrating our first year in Cary!
Sung-Eun Yoo, MD
Endocrinologist Diplomat, American Board of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Diplomat, American Board of Internal Medicine Endocrine Certification in Neck Ultrasound (ECNU) Certification in the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD)
On-Site Services: • Thyroid, parathyroid and neck ultrasound • Ultrasound guided FNA • DEXA bone density scans and interpretation • Osteoporosis therapy • Comprehensive diabetes management including diabetes education, insulin pump therapy, and continuous glucose monitoring • LabCorp in-house Introducing Jeanne Hutson, NP-C Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management
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18
The Triangle Physician
News
Rex Healthcare Earns A+ Bond Rating Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services af-
creased inpatient volumes in some areas,
demographics that we believe will lead
firmed its A+ rating on Rex Healthcare,
its outpatient visits rose by nearly 15 per-
to continued population growth in the
citing Rex’s strong financial performance
cent in 2012. Rex also is seeing significant
service area. In addition, Rex has posted
and beneficial affiliation with University of
growth in specialty areas, such as heart
healthy earnings from operations for the
North Carolina Health Care.
and vascular and oncology and expects
past several fiscal years.
that key physicians in cardiovascular surS&P also maintained its stable outlook on
gery and neurosurgery should boost future
“The stable outlook reflects our view of
Rex’s $119.9 million in debt. Last year, two
volume, S&P analysts wrote.
Rex’s ongoing leading market share in Wake County, despite competition in the
other bond-rating agencies also affirmed their top ratings for Rex. Fitch Ratings has
S&P analysts also wrote: “We consider
area, and its history of maintaining a strong
an A+ rating and Moody’s Investors Servic-
Rex’s overall enterprise and financial pro-
financial profile.”
es has an A1 rating.
files to be strong, bolstered by solid local
“S&P’s rating reinforces our strategy of providing excellent and efficient care and services for all our patients,” said Rex Chief Financial Officer Bernadette Spong. The S&P report notes that Rex also benefits from a “robust regional economy” and its management by a “strong group of senior leaders.” According to a Rex press advisory, the increasing collaboration with UNC Health Care is helping Rex succeed amid changes due to national health reform. According to the advisory, while Rex has followed industry trends and seen de-
Uma Raghunathan Joins Raleigh Neurology
Uma Raghunathan, M.D.
Uma Raghunathan, M.D.,
to Syracuse, N.Y., where she completed a
joined the team at Baystate Neurology,
has joined Raleigh Neu-
residency in neurology at State University
part of Baystate Medical Center in Spring-
rology Associates P.A.
of New York’s Upstate University Hospital.
field, Mass., while also practicing one day
as a part-time neurolo-
Dr. Raghunathan went on to complete a
a month at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in
gist practicing general
fellowship in clinical neurophysiology and
Ware, Mass.
adult neurology at its
epilepsy at Jefferson University Hospital in
Dr. Raghunathan is now accepting new
Durham
Philadelphia, Pa.
patients at Raleigh Neurology Associates’
office.
She
Durham office at 4111 Ben Franklin Blvd.,
brings years of providing award-winning outpatient neurological
Upon completion of her clinical training,
27704. To schedule an appointment, call
care, according to a press advisory.
she practiced as a solo adult neurologist
(919) 719-8834. To learn more about Ra-
at Baystate Franklin Medical Center in
leigh Neurology Associates, visit online at
Dr. Raghunathan earned her medical de-
Greenfield, Mass., where she was awarded
www.raleighneurology.com.
gree from Bharati Vidyapeeth Medical
the Baystate Medical Practice Award for
College in Pune, India. She then traveled
Outstanding Patient Satisfaction. She then
february/march 2013
19
News
Celebrate Heart Health Month with Rex In recognition of American Heart Month
fresh, made-from-scratch menu items.
test. Share a story about your road to good health for a chance to win the Ultimate
in February, Rex Healthcare is partnering with Triangle-area organizations to pro-
The HeartAware assessment asks partici-
Fan Experience, including a VIP dinner,
mote heart health education and aware-
pants to answer a series of questions about
tickets to the April 6 Hurricanes vs. Rang-
ness. For more information about any of
their health, family background and life-
ers matchup and a meet and greet with
the initiatives, visit rexhealth.com/heart-
style habits and then immediately produces
a Canes player! Visit Rex Healthcare on
month.
a personalized report on the respondent’s
Facebook, click on “Pumped Up” Contest
risk factors for heart disease. People with
and share your story.
Sweet Tomatoes
high-risk factors can receive a free follow-
HeartAware Giveaway
up screening with a clinician at Rex. Visit
Twitter Contest
Everyone who completes an online
Rex’s HeartAware site at www.rexhealth.
Rex and the Carolina Hurricanes also
HeartAware assessment during February
com/heart-aware to take the assessment.
are conducting a special Twitter promotion during February, with chances to
will receive a voucher for a free lunch or dinner at Sweet Tomatoes, redeemable
“Pumped Up” Facebook Contest
win team-autographed hockey sticks. For
at the Raleigh and Cary locations, while
The Carolina Hurricanes are teaming up
more information visit Rex Tweet to Win at:
supplies last. Sweet Tomatoes offers farm
with Rex Healthcare for an inspiring con-
hurricanes.nhl.com/club/page.htm?id=67374.
Welcome to the Area
Events
Physicians
Andreas Wolfgang Linke, PA
Pinar Gumus Balikcioglu, MD
FastMed Urgent Care of Garner Garner
Pediatrics; Pediatric Endocrinology
University of North Carolina Hospitals Chapel Hill
Amol Suryakant Katkar, MD Diagnostic Radiology; Radiology
Duke University Hospitals Durham
Paulie Papavassiliou-Bajic, MD Pathology: Molecular Genetic; Pediatric; Anatomic; Clinical; Chemical; Forensic; Hematology; Medical Microbiology
Duke University Hospitals Durham
Leslie Maeve Claracay Pineda, MD Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine; Pediatrics
Duke University Hospitals Durham
Marcus Lindley Scarbrough, MD Hospitalist; Internal Medicine
Eagle Hospital Physicians Henderson
Goonjan Sunil Shah, MD Anesthesiology; Pain Management; Pain Medicine
University of North Carolina Hospitals Chapel Hill
Anna Shapiro, MD Psychiatry
University of North Carolina Hospitals Chapel Hill
Physician Assistants Jessica Renee Jones, PA Thoracic Surgery
Duke Thoracic Surgery of Raleigh Raleigh
20
The Triangle Physician
Family Practice; Urgent Care
Jinkyung Eun Pak, PA Cardiology; Family Practice/Geriatric Medicine; Hospitalist; Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism; Urgent Care
Wake Forest
Michael John Steger, PA Family Practice
218 Ashville Ave, Cary
Brittany Taylor Womble, PA Universal Family Medicine Raleigh
Events
focus on the importance of dental and oral care in diabetes. Location: Teer House, 4019 N. Roxboro Road, Durham 27704 Weight Loss Surgery Support Group March 26, 6-7:30 p.m. This weight-loss surgery support group encourages discussion on topics related to adjustment before and after weight-loss
surgery. February’s topic will be “Healthy Tips for Dining Out.” Location: Duke Center for Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery Durham Clinic, 407 Crutchfield St., Durham 24404. Register for these events online at www.durhamregional.org/events or by calling (919) 403-4374, unless otherwise noted.
The Triangle Physician 2013 Editorial Calendar April Autism Irritable Bowel Syndrome IT Services May Arthritis Women’s Health Medical Billing June NEWSOURCE-JUN10:Heidi Men’s Health Vascular Diseases Medical Collections
July Imaging Technologies Psoriasis Medical Insurance August Orthopedics Gastroenterology Medical Real Estate 8/5/10 September 12:57 PM Page 1 Atrial Fibrillation Urology Web Design
October Cancer in Women COPD - Lung Health Medical Software - EMR November Alzheimer’s Disease Diabetes Financial Planning December Pain Management Spine Disorders Practice Management
Durham Regional Look Good Feel Better March 4, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Look Good Feel Better is a free American Cancer Society program that teaches women beauty techniques while they undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Participants receive a free cosmetics kit and instruction by beauty professionals. Location: North Conference Room, Durham Regional Hospital Registration: Call (919) 470-7168 Stroke Support Group March 11, 1-2:30 p.m. The mission of this support group is to help educate the stroke survivor, caregiver and community about stroke prevention and stroke disabilities. This group meets the second Monday of each month. Location: Durham Regional Hospital, private dining room C Adult Diabetes Support Group March 19, 6-7:30 p.m. This support group for those with diabetes and their guest is facilitated by certified diabetes educators to help participants manage diabetes. February’s session will
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Our network of smart, creative, award-winning specialists serves the health care industry throughout the Mid-Atlantic.
Maybe it’s happiness in a child’s eyes. Whatever the desired outcomes, count on us to ensure your key messages have the 20/20 clarity to deliver.
“More than a doctor. Like a friend.”
We know it by heart.
Trust. WHV is an independent group of heart specialists with locations throughout Eastern North Carolina - ready to provide the care for your patient’s heart when and where they need it. We’ve been pioneering and delivering innovative cardiovascular care for over 25 years. Through our affiliation with UNC Health Care, our physicians can also tap into the latest research and expertise associated with a world-class academic institution. And this in turn allows all our patients to have more access to clinical trials and new therapies, resulting in the best cardiovascular care available in the area.
Cardiovascular Professionals in Johnston, Wayne and Wilson Counties Mateen Akhtar, MD, FACC Benjamin G. Atkeson, MD, FACC
Matthew A. Hook, MD, FACC Eric M. Janis, MD, FACC
Waheed Akhtar, MD, FACC Malay Agrawal, MD, FACC
Kevin R. Campbell, MD, FACC Randy A.S. Cooper, MD, FACC
Diane E. Morris, ACNP Ravish Sachar, MD, FACC
Sunil Chand, MD, FACC Paul Perez-Navarro, MD, FACC
Laura Davis, ANP-BC Christian Gring, MD, FACC
Nyla Thompson, PA-C
Joel Schneider, MD, FACC
Cardiovascular Services Echocardiography Nuclear Cardiology Interventional Cardiology Carotid Artery Interventions Cardiac Catheterization Cardiac CT Angiography and Calcium Scoring Electrophysiology and Cardiac Arrhythmias Peripheral Vascular Interventions Pacemakers / Defibrillators Stress Tests Holter Monitoring Lipid and Anti-Coagulation Clinics Vascular Ultrasounds / AAA Screening
WHV Locations in Johnston, Wayne and Wilson Counties 910 Berkshire Road
2076 NC Hwy 42 West, Suite 100
2605 Forest Hills Road South West
2400 Wayne Memorial Drive, Suite A
Smithfield, NC 27577 Phone: 919-989-7909 Fax: 919-989-3147
Clayton, NC 27520 Phone: 919-359-0322 Fax: 919-359-0326
Wilson, NC 27893 Phone: 252-243-7049
Goldsboro, NC 27534 Phone: (919) 736-8655 Fax: (919) 734-6999
When it comes to your cardiovascular care – We know it by heart. To learn more, visit our website www.WHVheart.com or call us at 1-800-WHV-2889 (800-948-2889).
Advanced Medical Imaging for Your Patients 19 Convenient Triangle Area Locations
Established in 1953, Wake Radiology is the leading provider of outpatient medical imaging for families in the Triangle. Our 54 radiologists are recognized experts, subspecialty trained and certified by the American Board of Radiology. A longtime leader in low-dose imaging, we are committed to minimize patients’ radiation exposure while maintaining the highest quality. We are proud to be the only multi-site freestanding outpatient imaging provider in the Triangle to earn the American College of Radiology’s prestigious Breast Imaging Center of Excellence (BICOE) designation. Our group is also the only one to earn certification from the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) for bone density screenings and the first in Wake County to offer dedicated pediatric imaging services. Our 19 outpatient offices provide easy access to a full range of imaging procedures including: • Screening and diagnostic mammography • PET-CT and nuclear medicine • Interventional radiology and vein care • Orthopedic and sports imaging • Low-dose CT and MRI • Pediatric imaging So the next time imaging is necessary for your patients, choose Wake Radiology. We are in-network with most insurance plans and offer financial assistance or payment plans to patients who need it.
Wake Radiology. Excellence in medical imaging.
Express Scheduling: 919-232-4700 Mon-Fri 7:30am-6:30pm Chapel Hill Scheduling: 919-942-3196 Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm wakerad.com Wake Radiology has 19 convenient outpatient imaging locations in Raleigh | Cary | Garner | Wake Forest | Morrisville Fuquay-Varina | Chapel Hill
Comprehensive Outpatient Imaging Services