Cardiovascular

West Michigan Cardiothoracic Surgeons Joining the Spectrum Health Medical Group

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., February 1, 2015 ‘ West Michigan Cardiothoracic

Surgeons (WMCTS), the largest group of heart surgeons in West Michigan, will join the

Spectrum Health Medical Group (SHMG) on February 1, 2015.

The six surgeons join an established practice of SHMG vascular surgeons and

cardiologists. Their integration creates the new Spectrum Health Medical Group Department

of Cardiovascular Services, one of the largest groups of cardiovascular specialists in

Michigan.

WMCTS’ joining SHMG brings a rich history of caring for thousands of patients and

families with high-quality care, notes Seth Wolk, MD, president of Spectrum Health Medical

Group.

‘This is a group of physicians who can trace their lineage and legacy of excellence to

the first cardiothoracic surgeons in West Michigan,’ said Wolk. ‘They also have provided

great leadership in developing surgical specialties at Spectrum Health. Their skill, vision

and leadership are an excellent fit with the Medical Group.’

‘High-quality care and outcomes along with collaborative research and education have

long been hallmarks of West Michigan Cardiothoracic Surgeons,’ said John Heiser, MD, a

senior member of the group. ‘In addition, we will continue to build relationships with

regional and referring physicians. Joining the Spectrum Health Medical Group allows us

to continue our commitment to cardiovascular care and build upon the legacy of our practice.’

Spectrum Health is a not-for-profit health system, based in West Michigan, offering a full

continuum of care through the Spectrum Health Hospital Group, which is comprised of 11

hospitals including Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital; 169 ambulatory and service sites;

1,200 employed physicians and advanced practice providers including members of the Spectrum

Health Medical Group; and Priority Health, a 590,000-member health plan. Spectrum Health is

West Michigan’s largest employer with 21,600 employees. The organization provided $294.6

million in community benefit during its 2014 fiscal year. In 2014, Spectrum Health was named

one of the nation’s 15 Top Health Systems’ by Truven Health Analytics.