St. George Regional Hospital has achieved a remarkable milestone, ranking fourth in the nation among community hospitals for heart care, according to a recent study by Premier. This annual assessment evaluates the performance of America's top cardiovascular hospitals using publicly available data and artificial intelligence, ensuring an unbiased ranking that cannot be applied for but must be earned.

Dr. Blake Gardner, senior medical director of the heart and vascular program, attributes this success to a collaborative, team-based approach that has been cultivated over the past decade. He emphasized the importance of creating an environment where healthcare providers work together effectively, which has led to improved patient outcomes. This is particularly crucial as heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, with projections indicating an increase in cases.

The study also highlighted other notable rankings within the Intermountain Healthcare system, with Intermountain Medical Center in Murray taking third place among hospitals with cardiovascular residency programs, and Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden securing the top spot for hospitals without such programs.

Dr. Gardner noted that advancements in technology and preventative care are essential for enhancing heart health. He stressed the need for healthcare providers to optimize outcomes while managing costs, aiming to prevent patients from reaching critical health stages. As St. George Regional Hospital continues to innovate and develop new treatments, the focus remains on helping patients achieve their healthiest lives possible.