Sri Ramakrishna Hospital has been recognised by the American Heart Association as ‘Comprehensive Chest Pain Center’ in Tamil Nadu.The certification was officially unveiled on Saturday in which Dr. Sundar Ramakrishnan, managing trustee, SNR Sons Charitable Trust, C.V. Ramkumar, chief executive officer, SNR Sons Charitable Trust, D. Maheshkumar, chief administrative officer, SNR Sons Charitable Trust and Dr. S. Rajagopal, medical director, Dr. S. Alagappan, medical superintendent, Sri Ramakrishna Hospital.Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death in Tamil Nadu, accounting for approximately 36% of all deaths among people aged 30-69 years. Furthermore, the most recent available data indicates a 12.5% year-on-year increase in heart attack-related deaths. The American Heart Association’s Comprehensive Chest Pain Center Certification recognises hospitals that meet or exceed rigorous quality standards in the treatment of patients experiencing heart attack.A Comprehensive Chest Pain Center is equipped with the expertise, infrastructure and advanced technology required to provide rapid intervention for heart attack patients, including percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a life-saving mechanical procedure used to restore blood flow to the heart. Certified centres must also demonstrate an organisational commitment to evidence-based protocols, continuous quality improvement and coordinated care for patients presenting with chest pain.The American Heart Association’s goal through this certification initiative is to significantly reduce cardiac deaths by increasing public awareness of heart attack symptoms, encouraging timely medical intervention, reducing delays in receiving life-saving treatment, and improving the accuracy and effectiveness of care. Dr. Sundar Ramakrishnan said: “This certification is a significant milestone in the continued growth of Sri Ramakrishna Hospital and a proud achievement for our Department of Cardiology.” Published - June 27, 2026 06:00 pm IST