MetroSouth Medical Center Starts the New Year Off Right with $30 Heart Screenings

Those who can’t afford preventative check ups because of the high costs of health care, can benefit from $30 heart screenings at Metrosouth Medical Center offered only in January and February. The “Healthy Heart Exam” is discounted from its original value of over $200. The heart check ups will include a series of tests, including an electrocardiogram (EKG)-monitored exercise test, blood pressure test, and blood work to measure cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose levels. Percentage of body fat will be measured and participants will receive a comprehensive report including a summary of their cardiac risk factors. Anyone signing up for the blood tests will have to fast for at least 10 hours prior to the exam.

Friends or family members with diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of heart disease, who smoke or are overweight, or who frequently experience shortness of breath would especially benefit. Women, who often experience atypical symptoms or no symptoms at all, should consider the heart exam if they fall into one of the above high-risk categories.

“MetroSouth wanted to give back to our community by providing a healthy service to our residents,” says Dr. Robert Iaffaldano, MetroSouth interventional cardiologist. “In these tough economic times, not everyone can afford health exams, so it’s important that we create opportunities for them to do so. Studies show that the active management of heart disease symptoms and risk factors significantly enhances a patient’s quality of life.”

In addition to a $30 “Healthy Heart Exam,” those who sign up during the months of January or February can join MetroSouth’s Fitness and Lifestyle Center for $25 a month and a reduced initiation fee. To make an appointment for a “Healthy Heart Exam,” please call 708-597-2000, ext. 5615.

MetroSouth Medical Center (MSMC) is nationally recognized for outstanding cardiac care with state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology labs that feature advanced technology for all interventional procedures. The medical staff is experienced in all cardiac procedures including open heart surgery and coronary and peripheral stenting.

MSMC (formerly St. Francis Hospital & Health Center) is a full-service medical facility located in Blue Island, Ill. – approximately 16 miles south of downtown Chicago.