Nearly 13 years ago, University Community Hospital took an important step in addressing the disease that shatters so many families. We challenged the region’s existing heart treatment and educational programs. With the drive and enthusiasm of well-known Tampa resident and philanthropist, Art Pepin, a special Institute was formed to study and treat heart disease.

Since Art Pepin first shared his vision with UCH, the efforts and accomplishments of this Institute have been truly remarkable. Giving heart patients another chance at life is a daily endeavor for our team of physicians, nurses and technologists. Each year 50 cardiologists, five cardiac surgeons and hundreds of cardiac staff perform approximately 8,000 cardiac catheterizations, 1,500 cardiothoracic and vascular surgeries, 1,800 electrophysiology procedures and 700 open-heart procedures. We also perform more angioplasties in Tampa Bay than any other facility.

UCH is the clear heart care leader in the region. We have been committed to that goal for our patients since our inception. We are poised and prepared to advance our facilities and capabilities. The new Pepin Heart Hospital & Research Institute will carry our philosophy of putting patients first to new heights. Advanced technology will create an ‘intelligent’ facility, where communication and collaboration know no boundaries, and where patients and their families will reap the rewards. This new facility will be one of the best in the industry. It will serve as a showcase for the nation and a gift to the Tampa Bay region. It’s time that we create the premiere facility in the Southeast. That facility is the Pepin Heart Hospital & Research Institute.