Bassett's Preventive Cardiology Clinic exists to help patients reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke. In order to prevent new heart problems, we also provide care for patients who have had a heart attack, heart surgery or other heart procedures.

Some of the underlying causes of coronary heart disease are genetic, or inherited, and cannot be changed. One of the purposes of the clinic is to precisely diagnose these disorders. The genetic or inherited risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol, run in families. They are present and can be diagnosed in children and grandchildren of those with early heart disease.

Many of the risk factors associated with heart disease will require changes in daily living habits and/or medication. The clinic is staffed by physicians, physician assistants, registered dieticians, registered nurses, an exercise physiologist and other health professionals. These professionals are trained to help you and your family prevent heart disease and stroke through identification and modification of heart disease risk factors. The Preventive Cardiology Team has over twelve years of experience in helping patients with complex heart disease risk factors.

CLINIC VISITS

• If you have a family history of heart disease
• If you have high cholesterol
• If you have high blood pressure
• If you have an inactive way of life
• If you are overweight
• If you have diabetes mellitus

you may be at risk for heart disease or stroke.

APPOINTMENTS

During your first visit, a physician will take your medical history and perform a physical examination. Any needed tests will be ordered and changes may be made to your medication(s). On the second visit, members of the Preventive Cardiology Team will meet with you to discuss test results and to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. The registered dietician may take a nutrition history and teach you how to keep a diet diary. An exercise physiologist may ask you to keep a record of your physical activity. A nurse who specializes in helping patients quit smoking, will meet with you if you are a smoker.

Your third visit will take place in three or four months to give you ample time to work on the lifestyle changes in your treatment plan. You may need to have follow-up blood tests a week before the visit. If you must drive a long distance to Cooperstown, blood tests can be arranged at a Bassett Health Center close to your home.

You may need medication in addition to lifestyle changes to achieve your treatment goals. These will be introduced and evaluated before you are discharged to the care of your primary health care provider.

Your progress in clinic and the need for long-term treatment will be arranged in conjunction with your primary care provider.

FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS

Your physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner may refer you to the Preventive Cardiology Clinic. Appointments may be scheduled by calling (607) 547-3180 or 1-800-BASSETT between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You will need to set aside about an hour for each visit.

LOCATION

There is an initial evaluation fee as well as a fee for follow-up visits. Nutrition counseling is a separate charge as are laboratory tests. Please plan to request referrals from your primary provider and/or health insurance when these are necessary. If your insurance plan requires referral for nutrition counseling, you will need to obtain this prior to your second visit.