Headed by internationally renowned cardiac surgeon Albert Starr, M.D., Providence Heart and Vascular Institute is the largest provider of cardiac services in the Pacific Northwest and is one of the nation's premier cardiac centers. Each year at the institute, more than 13,000 patients benefit from the latest advances in diagnosis, treatment and cardiac surgery. Through clinical research trials, patients here also have access to many new therapies before they become widely available.
By participating in teaching and mission trips, our surgeons and cardiologists also provide and improve care for children and adults throughout the country and around the world.
News and Information
Join us for Start! Heart Walk
The annual Start! Heart Walk on May 17, a benefit for the American Heart Association, is your opportunity to join hundreds of others from Providence – historically the event’s largest team – on a walk alongside downtown Portland's waterfront. It's a fun walk and a great cause. To sign up call Providence Heart and Vascular Institute team captain Jill Mackenzie at 503-215-8039. Or you can self-register on the Start! Heart Walk Web site.
Tiny blood clots pose serious hazard
Deep vein thrombosis – blood clots that typically form in the legs – affects a wide variety, including pregnant women, people who sit for long periods of time, and those who undergo knee surgery. If these clots break loose, they can lodge in the lungs, causing pulmonary embolism and even death. Learn how DVT can be diagnosed, prevented and treated.
National award recognizes Providence's cardiovascular care Providence Heart and Vascular Institute again received honors this year from the American Heart Association (AHA) for achieving the highest standards of quality in cardiovascular care. For the fourth consecutive year, Providence Portland Medical Center received the AHA's "Get with the Guidelines" award. Providence St. Vincent Medical Center added the AHA's program in 2003 and was also recognized this year, the second consecutive year. Learn more.
Dr. Starr awarded highest American honor in Medical Science
Albert Starr, M.D., renowned heart surgeon, Providence Heart and Vascular Institute medical director, and Providence’s director of academic affairs has been named as one of only four recipients this year of the Albert Lasker Medical Research Award. Learn more about this prestigious award that once again has placed Dr. Starr in the national spotlight.
Latest procedure is offered to treat varicose veins
Varicose veins - veins that are swollen and raised above the surface of the skin - are a common problem that affect approximately half of all Americans ages 50 and above. In some cases, treatment is medically necessary due to the aching pain and discomfort that can accompany this condition. VNUS® Closure®, the minimally invasive preferred treatment, is now offered by the Providence Vascular Disease Program.
Vascular Disease Program – screenings and lectures
Vascular diseases threaten the lives of millions of Americans. Often these diseases develop without symptoms. Take a moment to learn about our vascular disease screenings and lecture.
Magazine profiles Providence’s cardiovascular research
Providence Heart and Vascular Institute has a longstanding track record of delivering innovative care to cardiovascular patients throughout the Pacific Northwest. Learn about some of our latest treatment advances and research initiatives in “Setting the pace in cardiovascular care,” reprinted with permission from Oregon Business Magazine.
Give the gift of health
Get heart smart with a Providence Heart-Healthy Exam, a personalized cardiac risk assessment. Gift certificates are now available!
The Providence Heart to Heart Education Guide is now available in an online format to provide helpful information when you, a family member or a friend must be in the hospital for a heart-related problem.
Schedule a tour of Providence Heart and Vascular Institute and discover why it is the top-rated heart program in Oregon. Meet our physicians and learn about our leading-edge research in heart and vascular health. Call 503-216-6612 for more information.
Providence Health Resource Centers provide Web-based information and support on a variety of topics relevant to heart and vascular interests, including:
Providence Heart and Vacular Institute is supported in part by the generosity of our community. Learn how you can improve the lives of others by supporting the Providence Together capital campaign.