New heart and vascular disease center coming to Raleigh next year

The new North Carolina Heart and Vascular Hospital at UNC Rex Healthcare—designed for efficiency—is still a year away from opening its doors. Cardiology services are currently spread across several locations in the Triangle.

Cardiologist Dr. Ravish Sachar said it’s important to include the latest technology in the new facility.

A hybrid procedure room that will be available in the new center will accommodate many specialties, and it’s also set up for teaching.

“This allows us to consolidate into the area with physicians, patients, families—everybody can be in one area,” said Sachar.

A conference center with simulation labs for training physicians, an auditorium and test kitchen will also be available on the first floor.

“It will be an opportunity for our folks to come and learn how to cook, and to take care of themselves better,” said Rex Healthcare Foundation’s Sylvia Hackett.

Cardiologist Dr. James Zidar said the patient rooms are designed for more space to accommodate family members, and it includes more natural light.

“Patients who are exposed to some direct light tend to have a better outcome—a more positive attitude,” Zidar said.

Hospital officials said the new facility’s design for efficiency and technology go hand-in-hand with the doctors’ partnership with their patients.

WRAL’s Dr. Allen Mask said the new center is designed to bring medical students in from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill who are training in interventional cardiology and vascular surgery.

“More fellowship training will take place there,” Mask said. “Some more advanced heart problems may take place in Chapel Hill, but follow up care could take place in the new hospital in Raleigh, where it’s easier for family members to come and go.”