By: Jastine Beatrice Yap
Dr. Nishtha Sareen has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Global Recognition Award for her transformative work in women’s cardiovascular health. As director of women’s cardiovascular health programs at Ascension Health System, Dr. Sareen has pioneered an innovative care model that has expanded from a single clinic to six comprehensive centers across Ascension Henry Ford Michigan and now at Ascension St Thomas Hospital in Tennessee. She has also established a robust virtual support network serving patients.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States, accounting for nearly one in five female deaths annually, according to the CDC. Dr. Sareen’s program addresses this critical health challenge through gender-specific interventions, focusing on early detection and preventive care. “Heart disease in women is often underdiagnosed because it presents differently than in men,” said Dr. Sareen. “Our program bridges this gap by tailoring care to women’s unique needs.”
Through a comprehensive approach integrating community health screenings, targeted patient education, and strategic partnerships with local providers, the initiative has achieved remarkable success in identifying and treating cardiovascular conditions among women who might otherwise go undiagnosed.
Measurable Impact on Public Health
The program’s exceptional growth trajectory speaks to its effectiveness and urgent need in the healthcare landscape. In just one fiscal year, it achieved a 65 percent growth rate, reflecting its success in expanding services and reaching more patients. This expansion has enabled the clinics to provide comprehensive care packages to thousands of women, including personalized dietary guidance, exercise plans, and referrals to cardiology specialists.
Most notably, the initiative has also facilitated early detection of heart disease, particularly in underserved communities. Dr. Sareen credits the program’s success to its data-driven approach, which includes regular monitoring and evaluation to refine services. This methodical assessment ensures that interventions remain effective and responsive to community needs.
Expanding Reach Through Virtual Platforms
The program’s digital transformation has changed access to specialized cardiovascular care. Beyond physical locations, the initiative has leveraged technology to offer virtual consultations and support. The program now reaches women in remote rural areas across the United States through secure telemedicine platforms. It connects with patients providing critical care where specialized women’s cardiac services are limited.
The virtual infrastructure serves multiple purposes, functioning as a platform for knowledge sharing among medical professionals and offering training on diagnosing and treating women-specific cardiovascular conditions. This collaborative network has created a multiplier effect, exponentially increasing the number of healthcare providers equipped to address women’s heart health challenges.
“Our virtual platform has allowed us to extend care to women who might otherwise never receive it,” said Dr. Sareen. “The ability to provide remote support has been a game-changer in removing barriers to treatment.”
A Community-Centered Approach
The program’s success stems from its deep integration with local communities and healthcare ecosystems. Collaborations with local organizations have helped deliver public health campaigns, educational workshops, and screening events. These partnerships have created sustainable networks of support that continue to expand the program’s reach and impact.
The initiative has revolutionized patient engagement by empowering women as advocates for their health, equipping them with knowledge and resources. Community health forums and public awareness campaigns have reached thousands, fostering a broader understanding of cardiovascular health issues.
“Education is just as critical as treatment,” Dr. Sareen explained. “When women understand the risks and take preventive measures, it changes outcomes not just for individuals, but for entire families and communities.”
Recognizing Leadership in Healthcare
A 2024 Global Recognition Award acknowledges Dr. Sareen’s innovative approach and the scalable impact of her program model. The selection committee emphasized her innovative care model, rapid program growth, and measurable improvements in women’s cardiovascular health. Dr Sareen emphasizes, “I must congratulate Ascension Health System for prioritizing heart health issues among women and their leadership for promoting the cause. This is a call for action for all health systems globally. It is about time!”
Dr. Sareen’s program demonstrates how targeted, gender-specific care can address critical health disparities. With plans for further expansion and continued innovation in virtual care delivery, the program is poised to make an even greater impact on women’s cardiovascular health in the future.
Published by Elle G.
