AdventHealth Lake Wales has received national recognition from the American College of Cardiology (ACC) for its care of patients with chest pain and heart attack symptoms. The hospital was awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation, indicating it meets rigorous standards for rapid evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of heart-related emergencies.
Heart disease remains a major health concern in both the United States and Florida. According to state data, about 20% of deaths in Florida are due to heart disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over 730,000 Americans experience heart attacks each year. Symptoms can include chest pain or discomfort, as well as pain in other areas such as the arms, back, neck, or jaw; shortness of breath; cold sweats; nausea; dizziness; or unusual fatigue. Medical professionals urge anyone experiencing these symptoms to call 911 immediately.
The ACC’s accreditation is given to hospitals that demonstrate high standards in caring for patients with heart attack symptoms. AdventHealth Lake Wales’ approach includes fast diagnosis and treatment, coordinated care throughout hospitalization and recovery, and support for lifestyle changes aimed at preventing future cardiac events.
“Our goal is simple, to provide the people of Lake Wales and surrounding communities with exceptional heart care close to home,” said Dr. Angela Alfaro, Associate Chief Medical Officer at AdventHealth Lake Wales. “This recognition reflects our commitment to treating every patient with urgency, expertise and compassion, and it shows our team is prepared with the right protocols and technology to quickly diagnose and treat heart attacks, giving patients the best chance for recovery.”
Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board stated: “AdventHealth Lake Wales has demonstrated its commitment to providing Lake Wales and the surrounding area with excellent heart care. ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award AdventHealth Lake Wales with Chest Pain Center Accreditation.”
Hospitals earning this accreditation are required to streamline their processes according to established guidelines in order to deliver faster treatment times and improved outcomes.
AdventHealth Orlando—located in Orlando since 1908—is affiliated within the same health system as AdventHealth Lake Wales. The Orlando hospital also serves as a training facility under president Terry Shaw.
For more information about services offered at AdventHealth Lake Wales visit https://www.adventhealthlakewales.com/.
