COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Baylor Scott & White – College Station Region continues to invest in medical facilities and services, increasing access to convenient, quality patient care options for the Brazos Valley. Current projects include:

• A new minimally invasive cardiac procedure to reduce the risk of stroke.
• A new primary care clinic that focuses on preventative care needs and includes a wellness center.
• A new sports therapy and rehabilitation location.

"These investments into our community highlight our continued commitment to deliver quality care in the Brazos Valley," Jason Jennings, regional president, Baylor Scott & White – College Station, said. "As the area grows, we continue to provide innovative services while expanding our capabilities so our patients can receive advanced care close to home."

Advanced cardiology services

New this month, patients on long-term blood thinners may qualify for an alternative option for reducing stroke risk, a left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedure. Using an FDA- approved implantable cardiac device, cardiologists can help patients reduce their use of blood thinners by preventing blood clots from traveling throughout the body, which could cause a stroke.

"Blood thinners have been the standard course of treatment for this patient population," said Jason Cohen, DO, electrophysiologist on the medical staff at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – College Station. "For some, an alternative such as the LAAO device is a better long term approach that reduces stroke risk without the worries that come with blood thinners, such as bleeds from falls or an unexpected surgery."

This is the latest addition to the cardiovascular program at Baylor Scott & White – College Station, the only medical center in the Brazos Valley to offer transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive heart procedure option for patients diagnosed with aortic stenosis. For some, this is an alternative to open heart surgery.

Other cardiology medical services at Baylor Scott & White – College Station include electrophysiology, echocardiograms, stress testing, peripheral and cardiac catheterization, cardiac rehabilitation, congestive heart failure program, open heart surgery and device management.

"We are excited to bring the LAAO procedure to Baylor Scott & White in College Station to better serve our community," said William Rayburn, MD, chief medical officer, Baylor Scott & White – College Station Region. "The addition of this procedure means patients in the Brazos Valley can have the procedure and recover in a hospital close to home while being near loved ones."

Prevention, wellness and recovery options increase

As a not-for-profit health system, Baylor Scott & White invests 100% of its surpluses into advancements for patients, including innovative technology, lifesaving clinical research, medical education, service expansion and improved facilities. The latest of these investments in progress is the Baylor Scott & White Clinic – College Station Midtown, which includes a wellness center and is located south of the Baylor Scott & White – College Station campus. The new facility is a $6 million investment in the Brazos Valley community. The clinic will provide primary care and assist patients with preventative care needs. The wellness center will focus on health education, nutrition and physical activity. This innovative model addresses the patient's medical, physical and mental needs, providing care for each individual's healthcare situation.

Additionally, a new $1.3 million sports therapy and rehabilitation space opening soon will help Baylor Scott & White to continue to serve more patients and add convenience by offering a site closer to many patients' homes and schools.

"We are proud to grow alongside our community, providing services that support our patients' health and wellness needs now and into the future," Dr. Rayburn said.

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About Baylor Scott & White Health
As the largest not-for-profit health system in the state of Texas, Baylor Scott & White is empowering customers to live well by reimagining traditional healthcare — creating more convenient, personalized and informed experiences. It serves more than three million customers through 53 hospitals, including flagship academic medical centers in Dallas, Fort Worth and Temple; the Baylor Scott & White Research Institute; 1,300+ access points; 59,000+ team members; and its leading digital platform — MyBSWHealth. The system's award-winning employer solutions include Baylor Scott & White Health Plan, Baylor Scott & White Quality Alliance and Levanto — a company offering digitally enabled health products. Founded as a Christian ministry of healing more than a century ago, Baylor Scott & White's mission is to promote the health and well-being of all individuals, families and communities. For more information, visit: BSWHealth.com