Our Philosophy
Saint John's Heart Institute is dedicated to the successful diagnosis, prevention and treatment of cardiac disease. Our mission is to provide you with comprehensive, state-of-the-art treatment combined with the skill, experience and compassionate care of our expert medical team to best serve your needs.
At Saint John's, we offer patients the personalized, one-on-one attention that has made us the number one community hospital in California. We take a holistic approach to healthcare and believe strongly in caring for both your physical, spiritual and emotional needs throughout the course of treatment. We also encourage our patients to ask questions and take an active role in managing their own healthcare. This website is designed to provide you with basic information about heart disease and the many treatment options that are available today. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Heart Institute directly at (310) 829-8760 during normal business hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Caring for the Elderly and Family Members
Our team of specially trained healthcare professionals is experienced in not only saving the lives of cardiac patients, but also with attending to the special needs and concerns of the elderly. Because heart failure is the leading cause of hospitalization in people ages 65 and over, our staff is accustomed to providing the extra attention and focused care that many older patients require.
We also recognize the importance of family during times of medical illness and crisis, and we welcome the active participation of your loved ones and family members during your stay with us. With the opening of the new Inpatient Pavilion at Saint John's, each private patient room features an oversized window seat that converts into a bed to accommodate overnight stays by a visiting family member. Each floor of the Pavilion includes a comfortable Family Waiting Room and a small kitchenette, and two Family-Stay Suites are available so family members can remain close to the patient and in constant contact with their medical team.
Our Team Approach
Saint John's Critical Care nurses provide exceptional care and compassion. The cardiac care team at Saint John's includes the full range of clinicians necessary to best serve the needs of our patients. Our team includes cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, cardiologists, electrophysiologists, critical care nurse specialists and support staff. Our medical team is also fully multi-lingual.
Following is a brief description of the role of our specific team members:
Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons
Our cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons specialize in surgical techniques related to heart disease, including coronary artery bypass grafts, valve repair and replacement, aneurysm repair, and more. They also specialize in the surgical treatment of patients suffering from diseases of the chest and lung, including lung cancer, emphysema, infections and others. Learn more about our cardiovascular surgeons.
Cardiologists
Our cardiologists are specialists in heart disease and perform diagnostic and interventional procedures such as cardiac catheterization and coronary angioplasty. They also consult with our surgeons and other specialists. Learn more about our cardiologists.
Cardiac Electrophysiologists
Our cardiac electrophysiologists conduct the diagnostic tests used to evaluate patients for heart-rhythm disturbances and help determine and perform the appropriate treatment. Learn more about our electrophysiologists.
Clinical nurse specialists
Our clinical nurse specialists are registered nurses (RNs) who have received advanced training and education in caring for cardiac patients. They work closely with physicians to ensure that patients are receiving proper pre- and post-operative care, and they remain in constant contact with patients and their families to keep them fully informed about their treatment and care.
Nurses
Our nurses are specially trained in caring for cardiac and critical care patients, and they provide a wide range of services to patients during their stay at Saint John's Health Center.