Kaiser Permanente Downey Cardiac Catheterization Lab Saves Lives

Downey Cath Lab

When it comes to matters of the heart, time is of the essence. Now, Kaiser Permanente patients in Downey and surrounding communities who may have heart conditions can get the diagnostics they need at Downey Medical Center, thanks to its Cardiac Catheterization Lab.

Cardiac catheterization—also known as angiogram or heart cath – is a procedure used to see inside the heart and view blood vessels to diagnose heart conditions without surgery. Interventional cardiologists use this procedure to view potential artery blockages that can cause heart attacks or other serious cardiovascular damage.

The presence of a Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Downey Medical Center marks a significant advancement in cardiovascular care for Kaiser Permanente members in Southeast Los Angeles County.

“This new service enables us to deliver advanced cardiac care right here in our community,” said Dr. Laurie Anne Chu, area medical director, Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center. “The Downey Catheterization Lab ensures our members can receive timely and effective treatment for heart conditions, ultimately saving lives and improving overall health outcomes.”

Patients are referred to the Cardiac Catheterization Lab by physicians from inpatient units, outpatient clinics and other Kaiser Permanente medical centers.

“The addition of this service at Downey Medical Center marks a new era in our cardiovascular care,” said Mitch Winnik, senior vice president and area manager, Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center. “It’s a reflection of Kaiser Permanente’s commitment to improving patient care for its members and introduces advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities right at the community's doorstep.”

The hospital’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab is dedicated to addressing heart issues through comprehensive health care, which is a hallmark of Kaiser Permanente’s mission of providing high-quality affordable care and to improve the health of the communities it serves, including Downey and surrounding areas.