Cardiologists work to eliminate ‘cardiology deserts’ found in many rural communities
The United States is in the middle of a significant cardiologist shortage that shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, the ongoing situation is expected to get even worse for clinicians—and the patients they serve—as time goes on.
The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) has shared new survey findings that provide a fresh look at this troubling trend. For example, approximately 40% of Americans know nothing about the two major types of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The numbers are especially high when specifically tracking Black (54%) and Hispanic (49%) respondents.
The survey also revealed that one in four adults travel 10 to 20 miles to see a heart specialist, with longer drives expected in states such as Louisiana and Arkansas. In addition, 22% of adults have tried to secure a cardiology appointment and failed.
“When communities lack the tools to understand their heart health, it's not just a missed opportunity—it's a public health crisis,” ABC President Anthony Fletcher, MD, a veteran cardiologist with CHI St. Vincent Medical Group in Arkansas, said in a statement. “Through this campaign, we're building sustainable pathways to care so that every person—regardless of race, income, or ZIP code—has access to the knowledge and support to protect their heart, because every heart counts.”
This survey represents a key piece of a new ABC initiative focused on helping heart patients who lack reliable access to healthcare services. The organization’s “Every Heart Counts: ABC Cardiology Deserts Campaign” aims to change the lives of these individuals through the use of community outreach. Patient education, free screening and community health fairs are just some of the tools ABC plans on using to make these goals a reality.
“This initiative represents our commitment to transforming data into better outcomes,” Fletcher said. “We are working hand in hand with primary care providers and local organizations to bring life-saving heart care closer to the people who need it most.”
Click here to learn more from ABC.
Michael has more than 19 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.