2020 Outcomes - BSW Heart and Vascular Hospital fiscal year 2020 | Page 6

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Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital Welcome
This has been a year like no other in modern hospitals and medicine . Like firefighters , those at Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital – Dallas and Fort Worth , and elsewhere , have run to the crisis , giving their all , rather than avoiding the battle and the very real risks .
Elsewhere herein you will read about continued excellence , recognitions , advancements in care , research studies and publications ( including critical studies related to COVID-19 ), leadership and commitment . My comments this year are short and heartfelt .
All who wear the badge identifying them as part of Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital , from the most senior to the most unassuming , you have my deepest admiration and respect . To all who wear that badge , THANK YOU .
Gratefully and humbly ,
Michael L . Graham , JD Chair , Board of Managers | Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital – Dallas and Fort Worth
The healthcare provider team at Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital in both Dallas and Fort Worth should be especially proud of the accomplishments this past year . U . S . News & World Report recently recognized the hospital and Baylor University Medical Center in all five categories of cardiovascular care for which we were eligible for evaluation as High Performing .
We have been nationally-recognized for quality care and patient outcomes since the facility opened in 2002 and continue to pursue excellence . This year , the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged all hospitals and healthcare organizations . Our team has proven to be adaptable and resilient . Most of all , we remain committed to our organizational values to serve faithfully , act honestly , never settle and realize – we are in this together .
As you will read in this report , several cardiologists are involved in COVID-19 research . Advanced heart failure cardiologist , Robert Gottlieb , MD has been the principal investigator on one of the leading national studies on the anti-viral agent remdesivir . Research led by Peter McCullough , MD , has also been completed on preventive strategies for our high-risk healthcare workers . Innovation thrives through the involvement of these cardiovascular specialists on numerous national research and clinical trials . A complete listing of all active cardiovascular clinical trials is noted in this book .
We are fortunate to have sufficient supplies of protective equipment for our healthcare teams and patients , available critical care beds , and necessary critical care-trained staff . Our primary commitment is to the health and well-being of patients with cardiovascular disease .
Without missing a step , action plans , such as Baylor Scott & White COVID-19 Safe Care , were instituted in order to maintain a safe hospital environment , compliant with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control . Patients scheduled for cardiovascular procedures receive regular communication and comprehensive screening to reduce the risk for COVID-19 . Most importantly , we are strongly advising patients that cardiac care should not be delayed . It is critical to get to the ER as soon as possible if having a possible heart attack or other serious medical condition .
We are honored to be a trusted source of cardiovascular care for the DFW metroplex and beyond and remain dedicated to ensuring the confidence you have placed in us . For all who open this book and learn about our programs and services , if we can be of service to you or your patients , please do not hesitate to reach out .
Kevin Wheelan , MD , FACC , FHRS Chief Medical Officer | Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital – Dallas and Fort Worth