Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, a challenge intensified by an aging population and rising rates of diabetes, hypertension and obesity. Despite these realities, experts at Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care are optimistic about the future of cardiovascular medicine, fueled by advances in minimally invasive surgery, robotics, artificial intelligence and data-driven care.
As one of Florida’s most comprehensive cardiovascular programs, Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care continues to expand across South Florida, delivering advanced care while improving access, efficiency and patient outcomes.
“Our focus is on delivering world-class cardiovascular care that is innovative, accessible and built for the future of South Florida.”
— Tom C. Nguyen, M.D., chief medical executive, Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care
Under the leadership of Tom C. Nguyen, M.D., chief medical executive, Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care has experienced significant clinical growth and advancement.
A major milestone this year was the opening of the Center for Aortic Care, a 24/7 multidisciplinary program dedicated to treating complex aortic disease across all segments of the aorta. The Center unites cardiothoracic surgeons, vascular surgeons, interventional cardiologists, imaging specialists and critical care teams to deliver timely, highly coordinated care for some of the most complex cardiovascular conditions.
The program has also seen strong growth across its cardiovascular services, including an increase of more than 40 percent in cardiothoracic surgical encounters over the past year. To meet this demand, the organization expanded high-risk cardiology and cardiothoracic clinics and opened new cardiovascular ambulatory surgery centers, allowing patients to receive advanced care closer to home while reducing hospital length of stay and overall cost of care.
Innovation remains a cornerstone of the program. Baptist Health is a leader in robotic and minimally invasive cardiac surgery, offering advanced coronary bypass and valve procedures designed to promote faster recovery and fewer complications. The program is among the highest-volume robotic cardiac surgery programs in Florida and continues to achieve regional firsts in advanced cardiac and aortic procedures.
Technology also plays an increasingly important role in prevention and early intervention. Artificial intelligence and advanced imaging support more precise diagnosis, streamlined workflows and proactive identification of risk before complications occur.
Beyond clinical care, Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care is a recognized leader in cardiovascular research and innovation, contributing to FDA approvals, first-in-human therapies and landmark clinical trials. These efforts help position South Florida as a destination for advanced cardiovascular care and discovery.
As South Florida continues to grow, Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care remains focused on building a future-ready cardiovascular network of care—delivering exceptional care today while advancing the science of heart and vascular medicine for tomorrow.
To learn more, visit BaptistHealth.net/Heart.
