CHI Memorial Earns Cardio-Oncology Center of Excellence Certification

In recognition of its innovative work to support the heart health of cancer patients, CHI Memorial has been awarded Center of Excellence Gold certification by the International Cardio-Oncology Society (IC-OS). With the rigorous certification process, this designation recognizes CHI Memorial as the first Center of Excellence in Tennessee.

Partnering with The Chattanooga Heart Institute, CHI Memorial’s cardio-oncology program is one of only a few in the Southeast. CHI Memorial is the only hospital in the region to offer specialized screening modalities for oncology patients, according to Henry Cheng, MD, director of CHI Memorial’s cardio-oncology program and a cardiologist with The Chattanooga Heart Institute. 

“Today’s cancer patients are fighting the disease with greater success, with many expected to resume normal, healthy lives. But chemotherapy and other cancer treatments can produce complications that affect a patient’s heart health,” explained Dr. Cheng.  “CHI Memorial’s cardiac-oncology program offers prevention and protection to detect early-onset cardiotoxicity, or heart damage caused by cancer treatment, in patients.”

The cardio-oncology program studies how chemotherapy and radiation therapy affect the heart.  The program screens and treats cancer patients who have a previous history of heart-related issues, diabetes, obesity, or hypertension, as well as any patient undergoing treatments known to cause cardiotoxicity.

Partnership between cardiologists and oncologists is the key to the program’s success.  “Everything is personalized and taken case-by-case with close communication with a patient’s oncologist,’’ said Dr. Cheng.

CHI Memorial revamped its approach to cardio-oncology in March 2024.  A total of 479 patients were seen in the first six months of 2024, compared to 412 in 2023.  Program leaders expect to double the number of patients in 2024 over 2023. 

CHI Memorial also offers a specialized exercise program, rooted in exercise oncology research, that addresses treatment side effects like fatigue and muscle weakness while improving overall health and resilience.

CHI Memorial’s multi-disciplinary program underscores its commitment to providing comprehensive and innovative care for cancer patients, ensuring their heart health is prioritized throughout their journey.