Augusta Health said it will limit cardiology privileges to physicians under contract with the hospitals. The move will help the hospital build a financially viable community-based cardiology program, according to a hospital statement cited by the report. Patient advocates, however, worry the change could negatively affect Fishersville patients treated by University physicians.
University of Virginia cardiologists have served Fishersville area patients since the 1990s, and the move is expected to impact 2,500 patients. These patients will either need to seek treatment at University of Virginia facilities in Charlottesville or switch to a new physician, according to the report.
Augusta announced plans to hire cardiologists in March 2009 and currently has four under contract.
Read the Daily Progress report on Augusta Health.
Read other Becker’s coverage on employed cardiologists.
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