Vascular Access Centers Launches 'HELP' Initiative Health Evaluations for Limb Preservation

Philadelphia, PA, April 7, 2015 (Newswire.com) - Vascular Access Centers, LP has announced its newest system-wide initiative:  HELP - Health Evaluations for Limb Preservation.  HELP’s goal is to build public awareness of lower extremity amputations due to vascular disease, including Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), while encouraging proactive evaluation, screening and minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment options.

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a common circulation problem in which the arteries of the legs become clogged or narrowed by the buildup of plaque, increasing a person’s risk of heart attack, stroke and limb amputation.  PAD affects 10+ million Americans, and is pronounced by leg pain that occurs when walking or exercising, numbness, coldness and tingling in the lower legs and feet, and ulcers or sores on the legs or feet that won’t heal.  Risk factors include diabetes, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), high blood pressure and high cholesterol.  Individuals who are over the age of 50, obese, or smoke, are also at increased risk.

“In my experience, there are an astounding number of patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease who remain undiagnosed and whose quality of life would really benefit from early detection while treatment options are still broad,” said Dr. James McGuckin, Chief Medical Officer for VAC.  “With the launch of HELP, we are able to provide advocacy for these patients, as well as offer them an outlet for advanced endovascular treatments for this disease. With a minimally invasive and non-surgical approach, we are able to restore blood flow in their legs where it may currently be absent, thus helping save patients’ limbs.”

To kick off its newest initiative, Vascular Access Centers will be offering complimentary evaluations and screenings for PAD to the at-risk communities surrounding its 20 locations throughout the month of April. 

Founded in 2005, VAC now has 20 outpatient procedural centers across the country specializing in endovascular, minimally invasive, non-surgical techniques and treatments.  Staffed by a team of endovascular specialists, its goal is to achieve enhanced patient care through clinical excellence and unparalleled service.

For more information and to find the Vascular Access Center nearest to you, please visit www.vascularaccesscenters.com.