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Sierra View Medical Center expands graduate medical education with new specialty fellowship programs

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 16 Oct 2026 06:21:27 +0000

Sierra View Medical Center (SVMC) has reached a significant milestone in the growth of its Graduate Medical Education program with ACGME Initial Accreditation for new fellowship programs in Cardiovascular Disease and Gastroenterology.

The two programs will bring advanced specialty physician training to Porterville and build on the foundation of Sierra View’s Internal Medicine Residency Program. Each fellowship is approved for six fellows, who will complete their specialty training at Sierra View Medical Center. The Gastroenterology Fellowship is scheduled to welcome its first class in July 2027. The start date for the Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship is still being finalized.

The new fellowships are being developed with a larger regional need in mind. Communities throughout the Central Valley have long faced challenges recruiting and retaining specialty physicians, which can contribute to longer waits for appointments and the need for patients to travel outside their communities for advanced care. By expanding physician training in the Valley, Sierra View is working to help build a local pipeline of specialists who understand the patients and communities they serve.

“Establishing these fellowship programs is about much more than adding another level of medical education at Sierra View,” said Nashwan Obad, MD, Program Director of Sierra View Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Residency Program. “It is about creating a pathway to train specialists in the communities that need them. Physicians who train here care for our patients, work alongside our medical teams and gain an understanding of the healthcare needs of the Central Valley. Our hope is that those connections encourage more physicians to build their careers in this region.”

Fellowship training takes place after physicians complete residency and provides advanced education and clinical experience within a medical specialty. While many fellowship programs are based at large metropolitan academic medical centers, establishing Cardiovascular Disease and Gastroenterology fellowship training in Porterville creates additional opportunities for physicians to pursue advanced specialty education in the Central Valley.

“These programs represent an investment in the future of healthcare throughout the Central Valley,” said Donna Hefner, President and CEO of Sierra View Medical Center. “For many years, communities like ours have worked to recruit specialists who completed their training somewhere else. By developing fellowship programs here, we have the opportunity to be part of training the next generation of specialists in the Central Valley and strengthening access to specialty care for years to come.”

The fellowship programs grow from Sierra View’s Internal Medicine Residency Program, which received ACGME accreditation in September 2020 and welcomed its first class of residents in July 2021. The program now trains approximately 40 physicians and has graduated 36 residents through 2026. Graduates have gone on to pursue fellowship training in specialties including Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Critical Care Medicine, Endocrinology, Infectious Disease and Nephrology, while others have entered careers in hospital medicine and primary care. Physicians trained at Sierra View are now caring for patients throughout the Central Valley and beyond.

Program directors for the Cardiovascular Disease and Gastroenterology fellowships will be announced as development of the programs continues. Additional information about recruitment and program timelines will be shared as it becomes available.

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Adventist Health launches GI fellowship program to address specialty physician shortage

Valley Voice Contributor — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 21:43:19 +0000

Adventist Health Central California Network is proud to announce its new Gastroenterology (GI) Fellowship Program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The program marks a significant milestone in the organization’s ongoing commitment to expand physician training, address a nationwide physician shortage, and improve access to specialty care throughout Central California.

This is the first specialty fellowship program established within the network’s Graduate Medical Education (GME) program and represents a major investment in the future healthcare workforce. Applications are now open and will close on November 18, 2026, at which time two physicians will be selected into the three-year program. The first fellows will begin training through the formal ACGME and National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) application process.

“The demand for gastroenterologists continues to grow across California and the nation,” said Christopher Orpiano, DO, program director for the GI Fellowship Program. “Our fellows will train alongside outstanding faculty physicians and gain experience in preventive care, medical management, and advanced procedures for a variety of digestive disorders, such as liver disease and gastrointestinal cancers.”

The GI Fellowship Program is a natural extension of the network’s continued investment in graduate medical education, which began with residency programs designed to address physician shortages throughout the region.

“Research consistently shows physicians are more likely to practice in the communities where they complete training,” said Raul Ayala, MD, ambulatory medical officer for Adventist Health Central California Network. “By training gastroenterologists right here in the Central Valley, we are creating a pathway for more specialists to remain local, care for local patients, and better understand the unique healthcare needs of our communities. This investment is about building a healthier future for the people we serve.”

The fellowship will be based at Adventist Health Tulare and will utilize training sites throughout the network, including Adventist Health Hanford, Adventist Health Specialty Care in Hanford, and Adventist Health Primary and Specialty Care in Fowler. Fellows will gain experience in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and ambulatory surgical centers.

A medical fellow is a physician who has already completed medical school and residency training and is pursuing advanced specialty education. During the three-year fellowship, physicians receive extensive training in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases of the digestive system, including conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, and pancreas.

The program’s curriculum includes clinical care, advanced procedures, research opportunities, population health management, and disease prevention initiatives designed to improve digestive health outcomes across the region.

The fellowship program also creates opportunities for collaboration with Adventist Health’s existing residency programs, allowing physicians at various stages of training to work together to improve patient care, expand access to specialty services, and develop innovative approaches to managing chronic disease.

As Adventist Health continues to grow its GME program, leaders envision additional specialty fellowship opportunities in the future based on the healthcare needs of the communities it serves.

“Living God’s love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope is at the heart of everything we do,” Dr. Ayala said. “This fellowship program represents all three. It expands access to specialized care, invests in the future physician workforce, and strengthens healthcare for generations to come. Most importantly, it reflects our commitment to the communities we proudly serve.”

Applications for Adventist Health’s GI Fellowship Program are now open through the official GME application process. The application deadline is November 18, 2026. Interested physicians may learn more about the program or apply at this link: adventisthealthcentralca.org/GIFellowship

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Porterville nonprofit awarded national grant to help families affected by dementia

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 04:23:28 +0000

Valley Adult Day Services, a Porterville-based nonprofit organization, has been awarded a national grant from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) to create Mobile Memory Cafés which will bring dementia-friendly programming and caregiver support directly into underserved and rural areas of Tulare County.

Designed for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers, the Mobile Memory Café will host regular programming at community-based locations, removing common barriers to access such as transportation limitations, geographic isolation, and caregiver burden. Each session will provide cognitive stimulation and social engagement through facilitated activities such as music, sensory engagement, and reminiscence exercises. Caregivers will also have opportunities to connect with peers, access resources, and receive emotional support. Light refreshments are served to create a relaxed, café-style atmosphere.

Marina Chavez, Executive Director for Valley Adult Day Services, said, “Families caring for someone living with dementia should not have to face additional barriers simply because of where they live, through our Mobile Memory Café, we are bringing connection, support, and meaningful engagement directly into communities that may otherwise have limited access to dementia-specific resources. We are incredibly grateful to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America for believing in this vision and helping us ensure that families throughout Tulare County know they are seen, supported, and not alone.”

By meeting participants where they are, the Mobile Memory Café expands access to vital services while fostering inclusion, dignity, and quality of life for individuals affected by dementia.

“Support is essential for every family affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s president and chief executive officer. “Valley Adult Day Services’ Mobile Memory Café program is an innovative to remove barriers to care and support and make it easier for families to access crucial services. We are pleased to support their efforts.”

The $6,000 AFA grant will support operational expenses for the program, ensuring it is accessible and sustainable.

Families wishing to learn more about the Mobile Memory Café program can contact Valley Adult Day Services at 559-783-9815 or visit www.valleyadultdayservices.org.

AFA is able to provide vital services, like this grant, through the generosity of individuals and organizations. To support these initiatives or learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and resources available to help families affected by it, visit www.alzfdn.org

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Adventist Health in Central California nationally recognized for excellence in stroke care

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 02:49:18 +0000

All six of the Adventist Health hospitals in Central California that report data to the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines® have been nationally recognized for demonstrating a commitment to following the latest research-based guidelines for the treatment of heart disease and stroke.

Stroke is the No. 4 cause of death in the United States, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report. Studies show patients can experience better outcomes when care teams consistently follow evidence-based treatment guidelines.

Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the most up-to-date science-backed guidelines. As a participant in the Get With The Guidelines programs, the following Adventist Health hospitals in Central California qualified for the awards by demonstrating a sustained commitment to improving the quality of stroke care by saving lives, supporting recovery, and minimizing the long-term effects of stroke:

Adventist Health Hanford
- Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
Adventist Health Tulare
- Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
Adventist Health Bakersfield
- Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite
- Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
Adventist Health Specialty Bakersfield
- Stroke Silver Plus
Adventist Health Tehachapi Valley
- Rural Stroke Silver
Adventist Health Delano
- Rural Stroke Bronze

“Adventist Health in Central California is committed to delivering high-quality care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines and streamlining processes to ensure timely, appropriate care for stroke,” says Lisa Kreber, PhD, senior director of brain and spine services lines at Adventist Health Central California Network. “Our hospitals are caring for hundreds of stroke patients a year. Get With The Guidelines programs help our teams put proven science into practice to support improved outcomes so more community members across Central California can live longer and healthier lives.”

Adventist Health Selma and Adventist Health Reedley are in the process of adding data to Get With The Guidelines data registry.

“These awards reflect Adventist Health in Central California’s commitment to caring for people in their communities who need cardiovascular care,” said Karen E. Joynt Maddox, M.D., MPH, chair of the American Heart Association Quality Oversight Committee.

“By following the American Heart Association’s quality improvement protocols, Adventist Health in Central California can help advance our shared vision of better patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates — a win for patients, families and health care systems.”

To learn more about stroke care at Adventist Health in Central California, visit this link.

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Third class graduates from Sierra View Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Residency Program

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 06:28:56 +0000

Sierra View Medical Center celebrated the graduation of 10 physicians from its Graduate Medical Education Internal Medicine Residency Program on Friday, June 26, at River Island Country Club. The ceremony marked the completion of three years of residency training for the program’s third graduating class as family members, faculty, hospital leadership, and community partners gathered to celebrate the milestone.

“Investing in physician education is an investment in the future of healthcare,” said Donna Hefner, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sierra View Medical Center. “Over the past three years, these physicians have provided compassionate care to our community while growing into skilled clinicians. We are proud of all they have accomplished and hope many will continue serving patients here in the Central Valley.”

The Class of 2026 includes:

Mustafa Alsharafi, MD
Tiffani Barham, MD, Chief Resident
Igor Gorodniuk, MD
Shashi Gupta, MD
Armine Martirosyan, MD
Ghufran Quresh, MD
Malik Shetab, MD (Graduating December 2026)
Shiva Verma, MD
Kiran Wasiq, MD, Chief Resident
Sharanya Thiagarajan, MD, Chief Resident

The evening featured welcome remarks from Dr. Bindusagar Reddy, Vice Chairman of the Sierra View Local Health Care District Board of Directors, and Tulare County Supervisor Dennis Townsend. Dr. Nashwan Obad, Program Director, led the graduation ceremony.

Graduates received certificates presented by Tulare County Supervisor Dennis Townsend and Porterville Mayor Greg Meister. Dr. Obad and Dr. Randy Tingle, Associate Program Director, presented each graduate with their diploma and a stethoscope in recognition of completing residency training. The graduating class also presented Dr. Obad and Dr. Tingle with a framed class photograph in appreciation of their leadership and mentorship throughout the program.

Since welcoming its first class in 2021, Sierra View Medical Center’s Graduate Medical Education Internal Medicine Residency Program has continued to expand physician training opportunities in the Central Valley. The Class of 2026 leaves behind a lasting impact through the patients they cared for, the residents they mentored, and the contributions they made to the continued growth of the program.

Sierra View Medical Center congratulates the Class of 2026 and wishes each graduate continued success as they begin the next chapter of their medical careers.

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Adventist Health launches new minimally invasive enlarged prostate treatment in Tulare, Hanford with

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:57:53 +0000

Men experiencing the frustrating symptoms of an enlarged prostate now have access to a minimally invasive treatment option close to home. Adventist Health Hanford and Adventist Health Tulare are offering prostate artery embolization (PAE), an innovative procedure performed by interventional radiologist Arthur Fontaine, MD.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate, affects millions of men as they age. Symptoms can include frequent urination, a weak urinary stream, and difficulty completely emptying the bladder. While BPH is not cancerous, it can significantly impact quality of life.

PAE offers an alternative to traditional surgery for eligible patients. During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin, and tiny particles are used to reduce blood flow to the prostate. Over 3 to 6 months, the prostate shrinks, helping alleviate urinary symptoms.

“Many men assume urinary symptoms are simply a normal part of aging and that they have to live with the inconvenience,” said Dr. Fontaine, interventional radiologist at Adventist Health. “Prostate artery embolization provides a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option that can significantly improve quality of life while avoiding many of the risks and recovery challenges associated with traditional surgery. On average, patients experience a 90 percent improvement in their urinary symptoms, making it a highly effective treatment for men suffering from an enlarged prostate.”

The procedure is typically completed in one to two hours, and most patients return home the same day. Because PAE does not require major surgery, patients often experience shorter recovery times and minimal downtime.

In addition to symptom relief, many men are interested in PAE because it carries a low risk of erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence compared to some surgical treatments for BPH.

Potential benefits of PAE include:

Improved urinary flow
Fewer nighttime restroom visits
Reduced urinary urgency and frequency
Minimal recovery time
No major surgical incision

PAE may be an option for men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms who have not found relief with medication, want to avoid traditional surgery, or have medical conditions that increase surgical risk.

“Not every patient is a candidate, but many men are surprised to learn that this treatment is available,” Fontaine said. “If urinary symptoms are affecting your sleep, work, travel, or daily activities, it may be worth exploring.”

The addition of PAE services reflects Adventist Health’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to advanced specialty care throughout Kings and Tulare counties. Interventional radiology procedures use advanced imaging technology to treat conditions through small access points in the body, often resulting in less pain and faster recovery.

Patients interested in learning more about prostate artery embolization are encouraged to speak with their primary care provider. To find an Adventist Health primary care provider, visit this link.

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Blood pressure monitors now available at libraries in Tulare, Kings Counties

Tony Maldonado Jr — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:07:26 +0000

Patrons across 18 Central Valley libraries will now be able to check their blood pressure and manage a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. The resources are available as part of Libraries with Heart by the American Heart Association, devoted to a healthier future for all. Library card holders will also have the option to borrow blood pressure monitoring kits for at home measurement the same way they check out a book.

“Libraries across our community are an amazing source of trusted resources. We know that high blood pressure is a major health threat, and now people can find tools at many of their local libraries to help them manage their heart health – especially as families visit libraries more often during our summer reading programs,” said Veronica Casanova, Librarian V of Tulare County Library. “Through participating libraries, patrons can access blood pressure cuffs as well as American Heart Association information on how to properly measure blood pressure at home, an explanation of what blood pressure numbers mean, and a contact list of care providers who can provide follow‑up to anyone who needs it.”

High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because usually it has no symptoms. The only way to know if someone has high blood pressure is to get it checked, according to the American Heart Association. Almost half of U.S. adults – 47.3% – have high blood pressure1, increasing their risk for heart attack, stroke or kidney disease. These poor health outcomes can potentially be avoided if high blood pressure is managed. Unfortunately, many people are not even aware that their blood pressure is elevated and the use of a blood pressure monitor might be difficult because of cost or lack of access. Libraries with Heart aims to improve the health of local communities by making these resources readily available for free for those who need them.

“Managing blood pressure shouldn’t be complicated or hard to access,” said Satjit Sanghera, MD, American Heart Association volunteer medical expert and Family Medicine Physician at Kaiser Permanente. “Libraries with Heart helps bring basic health tools and trusted information into familiar community spaces allowing Central Valley residents to take control of their health and ultimately save lives from heart disease and stroke.”

The Libraries with Heart program can be found at the following libraries:

Fresno County:
- Bear Mountain Branch (30733 E Kings Canyon Rd, Yokuts Valley CA 93675)
Inyo County:
- Big Pine Branch (500 South Main Street Big Pine, CA 93513)
- Bishop Branch (210 Academy St., Bishop, CA 93514)
- Furnace Creek Branch (201 Nevares, Death Valley, CA 92328)
- Independence Branch (Central Library, 168 N. Edwards St, P.O. Drawer K, Independence, CA 93526)
- Lone Pine Branch (210 N. Washington Lone Pine, CA 93545)
- Tecopa Branch (408 Tecopa Hot Springs Road, Tecopa, CA 92389)
Kings County:
- Kettleman City Branch (104 Becky Pease Street, Kettleman City, CA 93239)
Madera County:
- Madera Branch (121 N G Street, Madera, CA 93637)
Mariposa County:
- Mariposa County Library (4978 10th Street, Mariposa, CA 95338)
Tulare County:
- Earlimart (780 E Washington Ave, Earlimart, CA 93219)
- Exeter Branch Library (230 E Chestnut, Exeter, CA 93221)
- Farmersville (623 N Avery Ave, Farmersville, CA 93223)
- Ivanhoe (15964 Heather Ave, Ivanhoe, CA 93235)
- Lindsay (157 N Mirage Ave, Lindsay, CA 93247)
- London (5711 Ave 378, Dinuba, CA 93618)
- Tipton (301 E Woods Ave, Tipton, CA 93272)
- Woodlake (400 W Whitney Ave, Woodlake, CA 93286)

Through the non-profit Califa, twenty-four libraries in 49 locations in rural areas of California are participating in Libraries with Heart, as part of the Rural Health Connections Project which is supported in whole or in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian.

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Sierra View Medical Center recognized in Best of Central California Awards

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:04:19 +0000

Sierra View Medical Center and several of its locations were recognized in the 2026 Best of Central California People Choice Awards, earning multiple Gold, Silver, and Bronze honors across healthcare categories.

Honors included Gold awards for Best Hospital, Best Surgery Center, and Best Cancer Treatment Center; Silver awards for Place to Have a Baby, Orthopedic Surgery, Women’s Clinic, and Nonprofit Organization; and a Bronze award for Medical Facility.

“These awards are especially meaningful because they come directly from the communities we serve,” said Donna Hefner, President and CEO of Sierra View Medical Center. “Every recognition reflects the dedication, compassion, and teamwork shown throughout our organization each day. We are grateful for the continued trust and support from our community.”

Gold – Best Hospital

Sierra View Medical Center was named Gold Winner for Best Hospital for the third consecutive year. For more than 60 years, Sierra View Medical Center has grown alongside the community, continually evolving to meet the healthcare needs of Tulare County.

The hospital was also recognized as a Silver Winner for Place to Have a Baby. Approximately 1,100 babies are born at Sierra View Medical Center each year, and the hospital remains the only Baby-Friendly designated hospital in Tulare County.

Gold – Best Surgery Center

The SVMC Ambulatory Surgery Center was named Gold Winner for Best Surgery Center for the third consecutive year. Designed specifically for same-day procedures, the Ambulatory Surgery Center allows many patients to recover at home just hours after surgery while receiving advanced outpatient surgical care.

Gold – Best Cancer Treatment Center

The SVMC Roger S. Good Cancer Treatment Center received Gold Winner for Best Cancer Treatment Center for the second consecutive year after earning Silver in 2024. The Roger S. Good Cancer Treatment Center provides comprehensive oncology services for patients throughout the Central Valley, bringing advanced cancer care closer to where patients live and work. In addition to treatment services, the center offers a cancer support group and educational resources that help patients and their loved ones navigate treatment and recovery.

Silver – Orthopedic Surgery

The Sierra View Hip & Knee Center was recognized as a Silver Winner for Orthopedic Surgery. Sierra View Medical Center continues advancing orthopedic care through minimally invasive procedures, outpatient joint replacement, and robotic-assisted surgery. Sierra View Medical Center is the only hospital in Tulare County offering the Stryker Mako SmartRobotics system for joint replacement procedures and has now completed more than 300 robotic-assisted surgeries using the technology.

Silver – Women’s Clinic

The SVMC Women’s Services Clinic received Silver recognition in the Women’s Clinic category. Opened last year, the Women’s Services Clinic expanded access to women’s healthcare with three providers dedicated to caring for women through every stage of life. The clinic was created to help address the growing need for OB/GYN services locally while keeping pregnancy and women’s healthcare connected to Sierra View Medical Center.

Silver – Nonprofit Organization

The Sierra View Foundation received Silver recognition in the Nonprofit Organization category. The Foundation helps fund new equipment, programs, and healthcare initiatives through community support, fundraising events, and donor partnerships.

This fall, the Foundation will host Midnight in Manhattan on September 18 at Eagle Mountain Casino, featuring a night of city-inspired entertainment in support of local healthcare. Additional information is available at sierra-view.com/midnightinmanhattan.

Bronze – Medical Facility

Sierra View Community Health Center – Terra Bella was recognized as a Bronze Winner for Medical Facility. The health center helps improve access to primary care in Terra Bella through same-day appointments, bilingual providers and staff, and services for patients of all ages.

Sierra View Medical Center thanks the community for its continued support and for helping make these recognitions possible through the Best of Central California People Choice Awards.

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Sierra Hills Senior Living unveils newly renovated community June 16

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:56:04 +0000

Sierra Hills Senior Living will unveil its newly renovated community on June 16 with a celebration open to the public. The event begins at 2 p.m., with a ribbon cutting led by the Porterville Chamber of Commerce to follow at 2:30 p.m.

For 26 years, Sierra Hills has been home to seniors in Porterville. The $180,000 renovation, completed this year, refreshes both the individual living spaces and the shared common areas across the community’s 121 apartment homes and cottages. Updates include the dining rooms Bistro area, the private dining room, new chandeliers throughout the first floor and a fully upgraded multipurpose room.

The celebration invites guests to travel through a series of Colombia-inspired “ports” without leaving Porterville. Each guest receives a passport to stamp along the way, with every stop offering something different, from traditional Colombian treats and foods to cultural experiences and community resource stations. Guided tours of the renovated spaces and live music will round out the day.

The event will also benefit Central Valley Rescue Railroad, raising awareness for shelter animals through gift basket raffles held throughout the day. Guests can stop by a photo booth from a local vendor and meet tropical birds brought by a local resident.

“Our residents are the heart of this community, and these renovations are about giving them spaces that feel fresh and comfortable,” said Betty Botello Ledezma, Executive Director of Sierra Hills Senior Living. “After 26 years in Porterville, we’re proud to open our doors and celebrate this next chapter with our neighbors.”

Call 559-396-4522 to RSVP by June 14 or click here to learn more.

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Adventist Health Tulare offers new lifesaving procedure

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 22 May 2026 03:23:33 +0000

Adventist Health Tulare is expanding access to advanced heart care with the launch of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty. This minimally invasive, lifesaving procedure, which treats blocked or narrowed arteries, will allow community members to receive timely treatment close to home without needing to leave the city or undergo open-heart surgery.

PCI is a minimally-invasive procedure used to treat coronary artery disease, which is a condition where plaque builds in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This buildup can reduce blood flow, leading to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of heart attack. During the procedure, a cardiologist inserts a thin tube through a blood vessel to reach the heart. A small balloon is then used to open the blocked artery, and a tiny mesh tube, called a stent, is set in place to help keep it open and restore healthy blood flow.

As the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiovascular disease continues to impact millions of individuals and families each year. By offering PCI locally, Adventist Health Tulare is taking a significant step toward improving heart health outcomes across the community and surrounding areas.

Adventist Health Tulare is licensed for an Elective PCI Program, meaning the hospital meets rigorous standards to safely perform this procedure and has the necessary protocols, training, specialized supplies, and expert care team in place.

“This is a transformational moment for cardiac care in our community,” said Patrick Hoffman, director of cardiopulmonary services at Adventist Health Central California Network. “The cardiac catheterization lab team in Tulare has been able to diagnose coronary artery disease, but patients often needed to be transferred elsewhere for treatment. With PCI approval, we are no longer limited to just identifying the problem — we can now treat it immediately.”

Timely care is critical when it comes to heart disease.

“In cardiology, time is muscle,” said Ankur Gupta, MD, interventional cardiologist at Adventist Health in Central California. “When a patient is experiencing a heart attack or critical coronary blockage, every minute is vital. The ability to open blocked arteries and restore blood flow in real time reduces treatment delays, limits the need for patient transfers, and significantly improves clinical outcomes.”

The addition of PCI services also ensures patients can remain close to home during critical moments in their care.
“This advancement allows our community members to receive comprehensive cardiac treatment surrounded by their loved ones and support systems,” Hoffman added. “It reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care that meets national standards.”

The PCI program will be led by a team of experienced cardiologists, including Drs. Ankur Gupta, Reza Rafie, Shashi Sharma, Atul Singla, and Bikram Soni, along with specially trained nurses and cardiovascular technologists.
With this expansion, Adventist Health Tulare strengthens its ability to respond to cardiac emergencies and provide seamless, lifesaving care when seconds count.

For more information about cardiac services at Adventist Health Tulare, visit:
Adventisthealthcentralca.org/HeartCare

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