Because of our generous donors, Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Heart Center in Waco continues to grow, bringing advanced heart care to patients across Central Texas.
“Every year, we’re seeing new advances that help our patients recover more quickly and with fewer risks,” said Umad Ahmad, MD, cardiovascular disease specialist and chief medical officer for Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest. “That really comes down to the strength of our team and the support we have from this community.”
Heart care often involves many steps, from emergency treatment to long-term recovery. At Hillcrest Heart Center, those services come together under one roof, allowing specialists across disciplines to collaborate on each patient’s care plan.
“Heart care is rarely just one visit or one specialist,” said Richard Helmer, IV, MD, medical director of cardiothoracic and vascular surgery at Baylor Scott & White – Hillcrest. “Patients may see several teams along the way, so having everyone working closely together in one place makes a real difference. It’s also much easier for patients and families, and donor support has helped make that possible.”
Leading the state in robotic AFib surgery
In February 2026, the cardiovascular team at Baylor Scott & White – Hillcrest became the second in Texas—and the first within the system—to perform robotic atrial fibrillation (AFib) surgery.
Using a high-definition, 3D camera, surgeons gain a detailed view of the heart that supports greater precision during the procedure. This approach allows physicians to treat the area causing the abnormal heart rhythm and place a small clip on the left atrial appendage.
Compared with traditional open-heart surgery, the robotic method offers clear benefits:
- Smaller incisions and less pain
- Lower risk of complications
- Faster recovery, with many patients returning home the next day
Patients who undergo the minimally invasive procedure often spend significantly less time in the hospital than those recovering from open- heart surgery, and many are able to stop taking blood- thinning medications.
Investing in physician leadership
Community generosity continues to shape the future of cardiovascular care at Baylor Scott & White – Hillcrest. In April 2026, the Hillcrest Hearts in Bloom fundraising event helped establish the Jaynes-Getterman-McClinton Endowed Chair, creating a lasting investment in physician leadership and innovation.
Leadership gifts from Lisa and Larry Jaynes, Sue Getterman and her late husband, Ted, and Carol and Paul “Crunch” McClinton inspired donors to come together and make this milestone possible. Their support strengthens the medical center’s ability to attract and retain exceptional physicians while advancing research, education and clinical care.
Nilesh Goswami, MD, serves as the inaugural holder of the endowed chair. His leadership continues to strengthen cardiovascular care across the region and support better outcomes for patients.
Through Hearts in Bloom, donors and committee members invested in something far greater than a single moment. Their generosity ensures patients throughout Central Texas can access exceptional heart care close to home—today and for years to come.
