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19 Health Care Organizations In Indiana Recognized For Commitment To Improve Cardiovascular Health

November 2, 2022 | The Paper of Montgomery County |

Across Indiana, 19 health care organizations received American Heart Association outpatient program achievement awards for commitment to reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke by improving high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and blood pressure management. The awards recognize a commitment to following the latest evidence- and science-based care guidelines.

Nearly half of all adults in the U.S. have some form of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke or heart failure.[1] High cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and uncontrolled high blood pressure are leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease, but with timely diagnosis, research-based treatment and education, these conditions can be managed.

According to America’s Health Rankings, Indiana ranks in the bottom half of states for the percent of people with high cholesterol (30th), type 2 diabetes (34th) and high blood pressure (35th).

“Addressing these risk factors is key not only for better cardiovascular health but for longer, healthier lives in general,” said Dr. Jerry Smartt, a neurologist on the American Heart Association’s Indianapolis board of directors. “The outpatient achievement award programs put the unparalleled expertise of the American Heart Association to work for hospitals and clinics nationwide, helping ensure the care provided to patients is aligned with the latest evidence- and research-based guidelines.”

This year, in Indiana:

  • 14 health care organizations received the American Heart Association’s Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol™ award,
  • 12 organizations received the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes℠ award, and
  • 19 organizations received Target: BP™ award recognition jointly presented by the American Heart Association and the American Medical Association.

Links to the complete list of winners can be found at https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement/outpatient