Intermountain Health Expands Electrophysiology Services

With heart rhythm disorders becoming increasingly common among Americans, Intermountain Health is broadening its specialized electrophysiology services and adding more cardiovascular experts across the state. The aim is to enhance the identification and treatment of arrhythmias.

Arrhythmias happen when the electrical signals that regulate heartbeats malfunction, resulting in the heart beating too quickly, too slowly, or unevenly.

According to 2025 data from the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease impacts close to 128 million adults in the U.S., with atrial fibrillation (AFib) affecting over 37.5 million people globally.

AFib, being the most prevalent type of arrhythmia, is projected to see an increase of 60% by 2050.

Given the high rates of heart rhythm disorders in Utah and the surrounding Intermountain West, Intermountain Health is enhancing heart services statewide. This initiative aims to address what some are calling a “silent epidemic,” by introducing heart specialists in several counties, including Central Utah, Utah County, Salt Lake County, Davis County, Weber County, Washington County, and Cache County. The goal is to improve access to care for patients.

“Many individuals are unaware they have heart rhythm disorders, which can lead to serious risks like stroke or heart failure,” mentioned David Wang, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist at Intermountain Health Utah Valley Hospital in Provo. He noted that the organization employs advanced technology and minimally invasive methods to diagnose and treat various arrhythmias, including AFib.

What You Should Know

Recognizing the signs of arrhythmias can be crucial for your health. While some issues may not be serious, others might signal significant underlying problems, as highlighted by Leenhapong Navaravong, MD, a cardiologist specializing in this area at Intermountain Health Utah Valley Hospital.

Key Signs and Symptoms:

• Palpitations: A sensation of fluttering or racing in the chest.
• Fatigue: Unusual tiredness, particularly during physical exertion.
• Dizziness: Lightheadedness or near-fainting spells.
• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, even with light activity.
• Chest discomfort: Pain or pressure accompanying rapid heartbeats.
• Syncope: Loss of consciousness.

Treatment Options at Intermountain Health

The heart and vascular specialists at Intermountain Health provide a comprehensive range of care—from lifestyle changes to advanced surgical procedures, including:

• Medical management: Anti-arrhythmic medications and blood thinners to reduce stroke risk.
• Ablation therapy: Minimally invasive techniques using electrical impulses or thermal energy to correct irregular heart rhythms.
• Innovative device implants: Intermountain was among the first in the region to utilize leadless pacemakers and subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).

Accessing Care

Intermountain Health offers streamlined access to specialized heart care through its network of rhythm specialists located across the Mountain West. Patients can often receive prompt attention at a nearby facility for their heart rhythm concerns.

For further details regarding heart rhythm services at a local Intermountain Health facility or to find a nearby specialist, please visit the Intermountain Health website.