Building a World-Class Heart Program Through Innovation, Quality, and Patient-Centered Care with Dr. Tom Nguyen & Ashford Denman

Baptist Health Heart and Vascular Care is making significant strides in transforming healthcare in the Miami area, focusing on quality and patient experience. Dr. Tom Wynn, the System Chief Executive, emphasizes the importance of integrating various resources within the healthcare system to create a cohesive and high-quality service. He compares the process to cooking, where the right ingredients must be combined effectively to produce an exceptional outcome. The organization prioritizes not only clinical excellence but also a patient-centric approach, aiming to provide a "concierge experience" that leaves patients feeling well cared for.

Ashford Denman, Vice President of Heart and Vascular Services, highlights the importance of collaboration and communication within the organization to ensure a seamless patient experience across multiple locations. The leadership structure encourages a dyad model, pairing administrative and physician leadership to enhance operational continuity. This approach is crucial for managing the care continuum and ensuring that patients receive consistent treatment regardless of where they access services.

The program has achieved notable recognition, including a three-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, a testament to its commitment to quality care. The leaders express excitement about future innovations, particularly in minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques that enhance recovery times and patient outcomes. They are also focused on expanding access to advanced heart care while maintaining high standards of quality and service. Looking ahead, Baptist Health aims to position Miami as a leading healthcare destination, with plans for further growth and the introduction of new programs, including heart transplantation.

Tom Nguyen, M.D., System Chief Executive, Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care; Chief Medical Executive, Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute; Chair and Professor, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, and Ashford Denman, Vice President of Heart & Vascular Services at Baptist Health South Florida, where he oversees operations for Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care, which includes both Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute and Lynn Cardiac & Vascular Institute, discuss how they are advancing cardiovascular care through clinical excellence, minimally invasive technologies, and strategic growth.