SGMC Health has achieved a significant milestone by being designated as Georgia's newest, and the region's only, Level I Emergency Cardiac Care Center (ECCC). Level I is the highest recognition given by the Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH) underscoring SGMC Health's commitment to providing exceptional cardiac care and enhancing the health and well-being of the community. 

Interventional Cardiologist Doug Luke, MD, and Chief of Cardiology Services shared, "Achieving the Level I Emergency Cardiac Care Center designation is a testament to the relentless dedication and expertise of our entire team at SGMC Health. We are honored to serve our community and will continue to strive for excellence in every aspect of cardiac care." 

Surveyors from the GDPH commended SGMC Health for its remarkable growth and dedication to cardiac care. The health system has made significant strides, including the launch of a Structural Heart Center and achieving Level III Trauma Center status. Over the past years, the health system has implemented several innovative cardiac procedures to include Impella heart pumps and Watchman Implant devices. The strong partnership with Mercer University School of Medicine further reinforces SGMC Health's commitment to medical excellence and education. 

Surveyors noted an evident passion among SGMC Health team members to deliver high-quality cardiac care across the system. This dedication is reflected in the expansion and enhancement of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the strong partnerships with local first responder agencies. These collaborative efforts ensure that patients receive timely and effective emergency cardiac care, significantly improving their chances of survival. 

Kathleen Toomey, Georgia Department of Public Health Commissioner, highlighted the importance of improving survival rates from heart attacks and out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in Georgia, aligning with Public Health’s mission to protect and improve the health and lives of individuals throughout the state. 

Toomey emphasized the importance of a "systems approach" to care, noting that SGMC Health's designation as an ECCC positions it as an integral part of a growing emergency cardiac care system throughout Georgia. This approach ensures a coordinated and comprehensive response to cardiac emergencies, ultimately saving more lives. 

SGMC Health boasts the region's only open-heart program, structural heart center, and electrophysiology program, highlighting its leadership in comprehensive cardiac care. 

For more information about SGMC Health's cardiac care services and its designation as a Level I Emergency Cardiac Care Center, please visit sgmc.org.