Breaking Barriers: Dr. Antoine Keller Explores How Geography Impacts Cardiovascular Health

A deep divide exists in heart health, especially in southern states like Louisiana. According to Dr. Antoine Keller, a cardiovascular surgeon and founder of HeartSense, this gap stems from social issues, geography, and policy flaws.

In many rural parts of Louisiana and Mississippi, people struggle to find doctors and hospitals equipped to help with heart problems. Currently, only 11% of doctors serve these rural areas. By 2030, Louisiana and Mississippi are expected to face a severe shortage of doctors, making it harder for the community to access quality care.

Dr. Keller highlights that transportation and childcare issues often keep people from visiting doctors. If someone needs to take a day off work to see a physician, they may choose to skip it entirely.

Food insecurity adds another layer to the problem. Poor diets can worsen heart conditions, particularly for those who already have genetic risks. Research shows that access to healthy food directly impacts heart health, making it crucial for communities to address nutritional challenges.

The cost of care also plays a significant role. In Louisiana, Medicaid has expanded access to certain heart diagnostics, but neighboring states have not followed suit. Many individuals under 65 continue to face high out-of-pocket expenses for necessary screenings and treatments.

Even when people get insurance coverage, they may still struggle to access specialized care. Waiting periods for appointments can stretch for weeks or months. These delays can lead to worsened health outcomes and increased mortality rates from heart disease.

Insurance policies often limit access to higher-tier treatments for heart failure. While basic medications may be covered, advanced therapies aren’t always reimbursed, leaving patients without the support they need. Dr. Keller points out that this creates unfair barriers for those living in poverty, despite their eligibility according to health guidelines.

The issue of cardiovascular care often boils down to where you live. Factors like zip codes, state policies, and socioeconomic status determine access to essential services. To bridge this gap, Dr. Keller advocates for community involvement, policy changes, and investment in healthcare resources.

As heart health disparities remain a pressing concern, it’s clear that steps must be taken to improve access for all individuals, particularly in underserved areas. Addressing these inequalities is essential for ensuring that everyone has the chance for a healthier life.

References

1. Healthy State: Focus on Rural Health Disparities
2. Zhang X et al. (2020). Human Resources for Health. doi:10.1186/s12960-020-0448-3
3. Porras-Pérez E et al. (2025). Journal of the American Heart Association. doi:10.1161/JAHA.124.037457
4. AstraZeneca: Transforming Cardiovascular Care

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disparity,cardiovascular health,underserved,rural,health care access,geography