AdventHealth Sebring is working to improve heart health in Highlands County by engaging local families and offering education about cardiovascular care. As part of Heart Month, the hospital hosted its annual Every Beat Counts Heart Symposium on February 3, where doctors discussed common heart conditions, warning signs, and treatment options with attendees. The event also featured interactive booths demonstrating how technology is used locally to diagnose and treat heart disease.
Dr. Thomas Shimshak, chair of interventional cardiology at AdventHealth Sebring, said, “For many people, heart disease can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to help people understand their risk, recognize symptoms early and know that exceptional whole-person heart care is available here in our community.”
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in both the United States and Florida. Research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology shows that adults living in rural areas have a higher mortality rate from heart disease—about 1.5 times greater than those in urban settings. Data from the Florida Department of Health indicates that deaths related to heart disease are higher than the state average in Highlands and Hardee counties.
To address these challenges, AdventHealth Sebring offers cardiac services aimed at reducing barriers to care for rural residents. The hospital operates the only interventional radiology unit and certified heart-and-vascular center in the region.
In response to growing demand, AdventHealth Sebring recently announced plans for an expansion that will add more than 100,000 square feet of clinical space. This project will increase capacity and enhance local access to advanced cardiac services—including a new open-heart program supported by updated surgical and diagnostic technology. The expansion is expected to be completed by fall 2027.
More information about AdventHealth Sebring’s cardiac care can be found at AdventHealth Sebring | Premier Sebring Hospital and ER.
AdventHealth Orlando, located in Orlando since its founding in 1908, serves as a training hospital with pediatric facilities under President Terry Shaw.
