The program launched in January, according to a March 13 news release from the health system.
Through the program, cardiologist Sivakumar Ardhanari, MD, sees patients at an ECU Health Chowan Hospital outpatient clinic from his office in Greenville. He guides the examination virtually, communicating with the patient and the in-person care team, and is able to order additional tests when needed.
“This program allows us to assess patients in real time, conduct detailed evaluations and coordinate necessary next steps — all without requiring them to leave their community,” Dr. Ardhanari said in the release. “By integrating cutting-edge telemedicine technology with hands-on support from our local clinical teams, we’re ensuring that patients receive timely and expert care while reducing travel burdens and wait times.”
In-person visits with a cardiologist at ECU Health Chowan Hospital are still available two days a week to ensure a hybrid approach to care, the release said.