Patient Experience

Patients first, always

“Patients First” is the guiding principle of Lee Health. We strive to provide outstanding and compassionate care and service, every step along the way.

The patient journey

Putting patients first requires more than world-class clinical care – it requires care that addresses every aspect of a patient’s encounter with Lee Health, including the patient’s physical comfort, as well as their educational, emotional, and spiritual needs.

Your cardiothoracic care team

After you consult with your surgeon and decide on the procedure that’s right for you, you’ll be introduced to your cardiacthoracic care team who will tend to your needs before, during and after your surgery. This group will include your surgeon, a cardiologist, a physician assistant, an anesthesiologist, nurses, pulmonary and physical therapists, and a social worker.

In addition, you will receive personalized, one-on-one attention from our cardiac nurse navigator. This coordinator will guide you through the surgery, recovery and rehabilitation process. They will also provide you with educational materials and direct you to a class on nutrition, exercise and stress management and other aspects of your at-home care. Your family will also have an opportunity to participate in a class for caregivers.

Rehabilitation

After your surgery, we offer a comprehensive rehabilitation program that will also help you maintain a heart healthy lifestyle. These programs are described in the Support and Information Resource section of our Heart Care Guidebook.

The highly trained and supportive cardiac surgery team at the Shipley Center will guide you and your family through every step of your surgery and recovery.