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Lehigh Valley Health Network’s (LVHN) world-class heart and vascular programs are joining forces to provide the most comprehensive cardiovascular care in the region.
Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute is now Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute.
LVHN’s vascular and endovascular surgery programs were part of Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence.
“Bringing these two programs together was a logical step given existing synergies,” said Ronald Freudenberger, MD, MBA, Physician in Chief, Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute. “More importantly, putting heart and vascular care under one roof benefits the communities we serve through more coordinated and streamlined patient care that offers new and comprehensive treatment alternatives, exciting research opportunities and more.”
Leadership changes are happening as the new institute gets underway.
James Guzzo, MD, Chief, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, is leaving LVHN after nine years of service to the community. “Jim’s passion for his work, his patients and for LVHN will be missed. We wish him well and are grateful for his skill and leadership,” Freudenberger said.
Eric Wilson, MD, will be interim chief of vascular and endovascular surgery while a national search is conducted. “Eric has been with LVHN for 10 years and his expertise and experience will continue to be an asset for both the new institute and our patients,” added Freudenberger.
Heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the U.S. and demand for cardiovascular services is projected to increase driven by higher cardiovascular disease rates and a rapidly aging population.
Becoming a hub of expertise for cardiac and vascular care will allow Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute to be an even more effective health partner for the region.
“We’re excited to be taking this next leadership step to provide the highest quality heart and vascular care to the people of our communities,” Freudenberger said.