The UTSW Program in Preventive Cardiology
UT Southwestern’s Program in Preventive Cardiology provides specialized patient care using clinical expertise in preventive cardiology, combined with knowledge of the latest research advances from laboratories at UT Southwestern and elsewhere.  We work with patients to assess their risk  of developing cardiovascular disease, looking at hereditary factors and other conditions that may affect their future health. For those who have already suffered from a heart attack or stroke, or those at risk for these diseases, a team of doctors, nurses, and nutritionists tailor a medical plan to aggressively reduce risk factors for each individual. The program combines traditional approaches with new strategies based on research to prevent heart disease and its complications.

Within the program, we provide the following services:

Comprehensive Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
For those patients without known heart disease, the program uses both standard methods as well as novel and emerging tools to help determine more accurately a patient's risk of heart attack and stroke.  We have particular expertise in complex cases such as patients with a strong family history of heart disease, young patients, and those with unconventional risk factors.

Multidisciplinary Risk Intervention
Our team of doctors, nurses, a nutritionist and physician assistant work together to prepare an individualized medical plan to treat each patient's risk factors for heart disease.  We work very closely with our patients, providing extensive counseling and close follow up to achieve healthy lifestyle goals.  Medications are also prescribed as necessary to help treat these heart disease risk factors.

Lipid Management
Dr. Khera is board certified in Clinical Lipidology and has expertise in managing complex cholesterol disorders.  All patients with cholesterol problems are also seen by our nutritionist for dietary interventions and followed closely by our physician assistant.

Cardiac Imaging
Advanced heart tests such as coronary artery calcium scanning and CT angiography (heart scans) are available for appropriate patients

Nutrition Services
A registered dietician with expertise in all aspects of preventive heart health including cholesterol problems, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity is a key member of the team and is available for consultation.

Cardiac Rehabilitation
Phase II cardiac rehabilitation is a 12-18 week program involving supervised, monitored exercise and extensive educational classes to reduce the risk of future heart attacks and heart problems in those patients with a recent heart attack, heart surgery, coronary artery stenting, or angina, as well as other conditions. 

Clinical Trials
Research and investigation are cornerstones of this university-based program.  Clinic patients have access to several ongoing clinical trials of investigational drugs and new therapies.

If you have an upcoming appointment in the Preventive Cardiology Program, please review and complete these new patient forms.

Patient Letter and Form    Food Diary     Exercise Log