Any time is a good time to focus on heart health and the steps we can take to reduce the risk of heart disease. Since February is American Heart Month, it’s an opportunity to remind our community that heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Yet many heart-related conditions can be prevented, managed, or improved with early care and consistent follow-up.
At Haskell Memorial Hospital, heart health is not just a once-a-year conversation. It is an ongoing commitment to helping patients protect their hearts before, during, and after a cardiac event.
“We see firsthand how it can be a challenge to maintain a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise, but our team has the information, resources, and tools to help you understand your risk and what it will take to ensure a healthy heart,” said Michelle Stephens, Haskell Memorial Hospital CEO.
Understanding Your Heart Health
Heart health is influenced by a combination of factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol levels, physical activity, nutrition, and family history. Many people live with risk factors such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol without noticeable symptoms, which is why routine checkups and screenings are so important.
Managing these risk factors early can help prevent more serious heart problems later on.
Access to Cardiology Care Close to Home
As part of its commitment to heart health, Haskell Memorial Hospital offers access to visiting cardiology providers through the clinic. Patients can meet with Dr. Dhruv Rajpurohit and Mike Frailing, PA-C locally for cardiology consultations, follow-up care, and ongoing heart health management.
After a Heart Event, Recovery Continues
For individuals who have experienced a heart attack, cardiac procedure, or new heart diagnosis, treatment does not end at discharge. Recovery is an ongoing process that requires monitoring, education, and gradual rebuilding of strength.
Cardiac rehabilitation is often recommended as part of that recovery. It provides medically supervised exercise, education, and support to help patients reduce the risk of repeat heart events and regain confidence in daily activities.
The Role of Cardiac Rehab in Long-Term Heart Health
Cardiac rehab helps patients address key areas that affect long-term heart health, including:
- Improving blood pressure control
- Supporting healthier cholesterol levels
- Rebuilding endurance safely
- Learning to recognize early warning signs
This structured approach allows patients to move forward with guidance rather than guesswork, which can make a meaningful difference in recovery outcomes.
Prevention Matters at Every Age
Heart health is not only a concern after a cardiac event. Small, consistent choices — staying active, eating well, managing stress, and following medical guidance — can reduce risk at any stage of life.
American Heart Month is a reminder to take heart health seriously, whether that means scheduling a checkup, making lifestyle changes, or following through with recommended care after a cardiac event.
Local Care, Ongoing Support
Access to local heart care plays an important role in consistency and follow-through. When care is close to home, patients are more likely to attend appointments, ask questions, and stay engaged in their recovery.
Haskell Memorial Hospital provides heart-related services and cardiac rehabilitation locally, helping patients receive the care they need without the added stress of long-distance travel.
Take the Next Step for Your Heart
American Heart Month is a good time to pause and think about your heart health. Whether you are focused on prevention or recovering after a cardiac event, support and guidance matter.
To learn more about cardiac rehab or heart health services at Haskell Memorial Hospital, call (940) 228-4321. Taking care of your heart today can make a lasting difference for the future.
