For five decades, the people of central Mississippi have entrusted their hearts to St. Dominic Hospital and the Mississippi Heart and Vascular Institute (MHVI).
This milestone is not only a celebration of 50 years of groundbreaking care but also a testament to the powerful partnership with Jackson Heart Clinic’s renowned cardiologists and surgeons. Together, they have built a legacy that has transformed heart health in central Mississippi.
Pioneers in Heart Care
The journey began in 1965 when St. Dominic’s established the first Coronary Care Unit not just in Mississippi but in the entire southeastern United States. This bold move laid the foundation for the creation of MHVI, which officially came to life in 1974. Early milestones, like the institute’s first heart catheterization in 1973 and open-heart bypass surgery in 1974, set a new standard for cardiac care.
Under the guidance of Sister Josephine Therese Uhll, whose prayers were a constant presence during these pioneering surgeries, St. Dominic’s became a beacon of hope for heart patients.
A Growing Legacy
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, MHVI’s impact only deepened. By 1993, the institute celebrated its 20th anniversary by offering free heart checks to the Jackson community, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to public health. Their efforts earned recognition from the Mississippi Hospital Association and solidified their status as a leader in cardiovascular care. Partnerships with the National Cardiovascular Network and other esteemed organizations further enhanced their reach, bringing the latest heart care innovations to Mississippi.
Compassion Meets Innovation
MHVI’s dedication to saving lives continued to expand, with the launch of initiatives like placing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) across Jackson in 2005. A year later, MHVI introduced its Level I Heart Attack Program, cutting critical response times and setting a new benchmark for heart attack care in the state. Their commitment to innovation was further demonstrated by implanting the first wireless pacemaker in Mississippi in 2009, signaling the institute’s leadership in adopting cutting-edge technology.
A Future of Promise
As MHVI looks toward the next 50 years, the focus remains on addressing Mississippi’s most pressing cardiovascular health challenges, including hypertension, diabetes and obesity. The future holds exciting advancements in artificial intelligence, genomics and telemedicine, which will allow for even more personalized, preventive care.
St. Dominic’s, MHVI and Jackson Heart Clinic have shared an unwavering commitment to improving heart health for half a century. With eyes set firmly on the future, their partnership will continue to bring hope, healing and innovation to the people of central Mississippi for generations to come.
