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Ask the Physician
The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | June 2021
I ’ ve been on the force for 20 years and overall feel healthy . I do work long hours and face a lot of job stresses , especially in the past year . My wife keeps bugging me to go to a cardiologist . Is it necessary ? Tony , Jersey City
Tony , it is natural to only think about going to see a doctor when you feel sick , or are having a health problem . It is important to remember , however , that when it comes to your heart , there can be things going on that you aren ’ t aware of .
This is why we recommend that first responders like police officers and EMTs get an evaluation of their baseline cardiac health . Deborah ’ s First Responder Assessment Program is specifically designed for people like you , who are at higher risk and face additional job-related stresses . This is why in addition to cardiac testing like an EKG , we also evaluate risk for sleep apnea , atrial fibrillation , and peripheral arterial disease . All of these interplay into cardiac health , and with first responders we know these can put additional stress on the heart and increase risk .
If you haven ’ t had an assessment , I would strongly urge you to get one . It will give you ( and your wife ) peace of mind .
For more information , visit www . DemandDeborha . org or call 855-646-3484 .
Daniel Ice , MD Interventional Cardiologist & Medical Director , First Responder Assessment Program Deborah Heart and Lung Center