Saint Francis Medical Center Cleveland Clinic Affiliation Statement of Quotes
Steven C. Bjelich, FACHE-D, President and Chief Executive Officer, Saint Francis Medical Center:
“This affiliation with Cleveland Clinic’s Sydell and Arnold Miller Family Heart and Vascular Institute takes
Saint Francis’ already exceptional cardiac care to the next level. With our selection as Missouri’s only hospital
with this affiliation, we have the opportunity to collaborate with Cleveland Clinic, thereby strengthening all
elements of cardiovascular medicine and cardiovascular surgery at Saint Francis.”
“The affiliation gives the Saint Francis Medical Center Heart Hospital access to the best practices that have
helped Cleveland Clinic’s heart program achieve U.S. News and World Report’s No. 1 ranking for 19
consecutive years.”
Edward M. Bender, MD, FACS, cardiothoracic surgeon and chair of cardiovascular surgery at Saint
Francis Medical Center:
“Cleveland Clinic is one of the most premier cardiology and cardiovascular surgery organizations in the country
today. As part of the Cleveland Clinic family, Saint Francis will be able to apply the best practices and protocols
of Cleveland Clinic’s expertise to our own patients locally.”
“Helping patients is our No. 1 goal at Saint Francis. This opportunity will provide patients with the latest heart
treatments close to home, improving the overall heart health of our community.”
Duc T. Nguyen, DO, interventional cardiologist at Saint Francis Medical Center:
“The Cleveland Clinic affiliation is one of the most exciting things to happen to Saint Francis. It’s not going to
be just merely protocols. There is going to be deep integration – their team with our team – looking at all that
data, analyzing the data to determine what is best for the patient.”
“With this new relationship we’re going to have the ability to leverage the knowledge and expertise of
Cleveland Clinic. If there’s a complicated case we will work with their team to develop the best possible
treatment plan for the patient.”
Bruce Lytle, MD, chairman of the Cleveland Clinic Heart and Vascular Institute:
“Treating patients with cardiovascular disease is complex. New techniques and technologies are always
emerging and quality is paramount. This affiliation will allow us to help Saint Francis and its physicians deliver
quality and innovative care.”
Joseph Cacchione, MD, cardiologist and chairman of operations and strategy at the Cleveland Clinic
Heart and Vascular Institute:
“Our affiliation with Saint Francis Medical Center ensures area patients have access to all of the medical and
surgical cardiac expertise Cleveland Clinic is known for to treat their complex conditions. We look forward to
helping bring world-class heart care to the Saint Francis service area.”