The Brownwood Area of Commerce hosted its February Monthly Luncheon, presented by First Central Credit Union on Friday, February 16th.

The event, hosted during Heart Awareness Month, featured Dr. Michael Blanc, an experienced Interventional Cardiologist at Hendrick Health. The Brownwood Cardiology Clinic, part of Hendrick Health, saw 7,500 patients in 2023. Challenges in cardiology include predicted physician and nursing shortages. Hendrick Health’s cardiology program is the largest in West Texas, offering a wide range of services and innovative technologies. “The best way to survive a heart attack is to prevent it”, Dr. Blanc said and emphasized prevention, patient education, and innovation in improving outcomes. Hendrick Health aims to lead cardiovascular care in the region, promoting quality care and patient accessibility. Action items include proactive health management for patients and expanding services for healthcare providers. Plans involve recruiting more cardiologists, expanding facilities, and introducing new technologies.

Chamber events are made possible thanks to the support of our sponsors. Today’s event is presented by First Central Credit Union. Mitchel Duttry, Branch Manager highlighted First Central’s referral program, stressing that membership is not required to benefit from making referrals. Additionally, First Central is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that specializes in providing financial services tailored to low-income individuals.

Supporting sponsors: Clear Path Home Care, Kohler Company, and Smile Doctors Braces, along with our Aces Wild Sponsor, Hendrick Medical Center Brownwood, and our door prize sponsors: Brownwood Lyric Theater, Davis Floral Co, and Domino’s Pizza.