WATERVLIET, Mich. -- Corewell Health announced residents in Watervliet, and the surrounding area can now receive expanded cardiology services at Watervliet Hospital

Corewell officials say the new services include a specialized device clinic for pacemaker and defibrillator patients, and point-of-care testing for blood thinners, providing rapid results to quickly guide treatment decisions.

“Bringing high-quality cardiology services closer to home is a meaningful step forward for patients in northern Berrien and Van Buren counties," said Natalie Baggio, president of Corewell Health in Southwest Michigan. “By expanding trusted programs known for excellent outcomes and experience, we’re making it easier for our communities to access the care they need, where and when they need it most.”

Officials say the testing includes echocardiograms, heart rhythm monitors, event monitors, stress testing, and nuclear medicine testing which uses radioactive tracers to assess organ and metabolism function.

The hospital is currently hiring multiple new cardiologists with an expected surge of new patients.

The new services began in early July.

Corewell Health Watervliet Hospital is located at 400 Medical Park Dr., and cardiology services are available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.