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PARKERSBURG — Parkersburg Cardiology Associates will join the West Virginia University Heart and Vascular Institute, a move the institute says will expand access to advanced heart care.

Integrating Parkersburg Cardiology Associates into the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute will strengthen the delivery of comprehensive cardiovascular care by enhancing access to cutting-edge treatments, innovative research and nationally recognized expertise, officials said in a news release. The practice will continue to provide care from its existing location on the WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center campus.

“This partnership marks a significant step in enhancing cardiovascular care for the Mid-Ohio Valley,” said Dr. George Sokos, chairman of cardiology at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute. “The physicians and staff at Parkersburg Cardiology Associates have built a strong legacy of excellence, and we are excited to work together to bring the latest advancements in heart and vascular care to their patients.”

“For nearly a decade, we have enjoyed a superb collaboration with Parkersburg Cardiology Associates,” said Dr. Vinay Badhwar, executive chairman of the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, said. “By working together as one, we bring the full support of the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute to further expand our collective mission of advancing care and service while keeping patients close to home. With our incredible existing partnership with Camden Clark Medical Center across disciplines, together with these excellent cardiologists, our physician leaders will now form the strongest comprehensive center for all aspects of heart, lung and vascular care across western West Virginia and the Mid-Ohio Valley.”

Parkersburg Cardiology Associates and its partners, including 11 additional advanced practice providers, have served residents of the Mid-Ohio Valley for over 50 years. The practice has been recognized nationally for the level of care provided by its team of cardiac care specialists.

“Our commitment is and has always been to provide the highest level of cardiac care to our patients,” said Dr. David A. Gnegy of Parkersburg Cardiology Associates, said. “Joining the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute ensures that we can continue to offer state-of-the-art treatments and further elevate the care we provide to our community.”

The partnership will also enhance cardiac services at WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, the release said.

“We are thrilled to welcome Parkersburg Cardiology Associates to WVU Medicine,” Sean Smith, president and CEO of Camden Clark Medical Center, said. “This partnership strengthens our commitment to providing the most comprehensive and advanced heart care in our region, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible treatment close to home.”

The transition is expected to be completed in the coming months with no disruption in patient care. Parkersburg Cardiology Associates patients will continue to receive care from the same providers.