Prestigious recognition reflects commitment to specialized care for genetic heart condition

MANHASSET, NY—Northwell North Shore University Hospital (NSUH) has earned the prestigious HCMA Recognized Center of Excellence designation from the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA), recognizing the institution's outstanding expertise and comprehensive care programs for patients with HCM, a common genetic heart condition. The Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital at NSUH is among approximately 61 centers nationwide to receive the elite distinction. 

HCM is a genetic disorder in which the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick and stiff, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. Affecting approximately one in 300 people, this type of heart disease can result in complications such as heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and sudden cardiac death, particularly in young, active individuals.

According to the HCMA, the heart condition is not rare but it is under-recognized, with a diagnosis typically taking three to five years after symptoms start. The National Institutes of Health noted only 15 percent of affected individuals are even aware they have this condition.

“Being designated an HCMA Recognized Center of Excellence in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy validates the exceptional clinical expertise and world-class care our multidisciplinary team delivers to our patients,” said Ronald Wharton, MD, director of the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Program at North Shore University Hospital. "We've built a comprehensive program that combines cutting-edge diagnostics, specialized and evolving treatment options, including groundbreaking medications, and personalized care plans to help our patients live fuller, healthier lives.”

Part of the Northwell Cardiovascular Institute, North Shore University Hospital's HCM program distinguishes itself through an integrated team approach, bringing together cardiologists, genetic counselors, nurses, imaging specialists and cardiac surgeons to provide evaluations and tailored treatments. The hospital offers advanced imaging, including cardiac MRI as well as a complete range of innovative treatments, cardiac procedures and surgery, as well as cardiovascular clinical trials.

"The HCMA Recognized Center of Excellence recognition is a testament to the clinical excellence and dedication of our specialized cardiologists and all of our teams working together to improve outcomes for patients managing this heart condition,” said Jeffrey Kuvin, MD, executive director and senior vice president of cardiology at Northwell Health, and co-executive director of the Northwell Cardiovascular Institute. “Northwell is not only treating the condition—we’re advancing the field ensuring our patients have access to the latest breakthroughs in treatment, diagnosis, and cardiovascular research.” 

North Shore University Hospital's cardiovascular program is consistently recognized for excellence. U.S. News & World Report ranks NSUH 19th among the top 50 hospitals in the nation for Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery, underscoring its leadership in advanced heart care.

The HCM Center of Excellence designation is awarded to programs that demonstrate exceptional clinical outcomes, advanced technology, specialized expertise, and a commitment to patient education and family support. The HCMA Center of Excellence recognition requires a rigorous review process, focusing on multidisciplinary teams including specialized cardiologists, surgeons, genetic counselors and advanced imaging.  

In addition, Dr. Wharton noted that NSUH’s national recognition as a Center of Excellence in HCM will make the program more visible online, which helps patients find the highest regarded and most comprehensive programs close to home.

For more information about cardiac care across the Northwell Cardiovascular Institute, call: 855-HEART-11. The central contact number serves as a concierge service for patients seeking appointments, general information and resources.

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About Northwell Health

Northwell is the largest not-for-profit health system in the Northeast, serving residents of New York and Connecticut with 28 hospitals, more than 1,000 outpatient facilities, 22,000 nurses and over 20,000 physicians. Northwell cares for more than three million people annually in the New York metro area, including Long Island, the Hudson Valley, western Connecticut and beyond, thanks to philanthropic support from our communities. Northwell is New York State’s largest private employer with over 106,000 employees – including members of Northwell Health Physician Partners and Nuvance Health Medical Practices – who are working to change health care for the better. Northwell, named a TIME100 Most Influential Companies 2025, is making breakthroughs in medicine at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research. Northwell is training the next generation of medical professionals at the visionary Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and the Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies. For information on our more than 100 medical specialties, visit Northwell.edu and follow us @NorthwellHealth on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn. 

About the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association

The Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA) was founded in 1996 as an international resource for patients, families, and the medical community on matters of importance. HCM is a genetic heart muscle disorder affecting 1 in 250 people worldwide. The HCMA provides services to enhance understanding, provide support, foster research, ensure high-quality health care, and support public policies of importance. The HCMA is a 501(c)(3) with offices in Denville, NJ, and online at www.4hcm.org.