Homolka shares cardiac information during American Heart Month
When Megan Homolka, nurse practitioner, visits Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) twice each month, she not only cares for patients, she also educates them about heart conditions and diseases.
In observance of American Heart Month in February, Homolka wanted to take it a step further and share information about her PVCH visits and heart disease with the whole community.
“I am here to meet with new patients for consultations, as well as follow-up visits for people with cardiac conditions,” said Homolka who is based at HaysMed. “I work closely with our physicians to ensure we provide the highest quality of care.”
During this special heart-related month, Homolka has a message for the public.
“If you experience chest pain, increased shortness of breath or irregular heartbeats, please do not hesitate to contact your local doctor or call DeBakey Heart Clinic at HaysMed for a self-referral,” she emphasized. “You should also watch for sudden weight gain, swelling and fatigue.”
One big risk factor for cardiac disease is family history. “Unfortunately, we can’t change our genetics but we can take measures to reduce risk,” the advanced practice registered nurse said. “This includes lifestyle modifications, blood-pressure management, lipid control and other factors.”
Homolka noted that residents of Larned and the surrounding area are fortunate to have the local resources of PVCH and its association with HaysMed.
“Providing services locally allows patients to receive care close to home,” she explained. “By expanding access to care, we can save and enhance more lives. Since hypertension, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease are all-too common, PVCH is providing a valuable service through its Specialty Clinics.”
Homolka added that PVCH offers high-quality imaging, which includes CT scans, stress tests, echocardiograms and vascular ultrasounds. “Our technicians are experienced in getting top-notch imaging, allowing for more streamlined cardiac care.”
Homolka earned a bachelor’s degree in general studies from the University of Kansas; bachelor’s in nursing from Chamberlain University in Arlington; Va.; and master’s in nursing-family nurse practitioner from the University of Texas, Arlington.
Jewel Davis, PVCH director of clinic operations, noted that Kalyan Wagle, MD, of the DeBakey Heart Institute, also travels to Larned twice a month.
“Our Specialty Clinic option is so important because these professional providers can see patients right here at home, with access to all HaysMed resources,” Davis said. “If this access wasn’t available, local residents may choose not to see a cardiologist because they are unable to travel.
“We are so fortunate that Megan Homolka is here regularly,” she added. “She sees a high volume of patients and is truly amazing in the care she provides.”
