Broward County offers free heart disease screenings through $10M health initiative
Broward County, Florida – In the battle against heart disease, Broward County is making a bold move. A $10 million program started in 2023 has enabled qualified residents able to get free preventative cardiac tests available at nearby hospitals. Set to run through 2026, the county-funded pilot program known as the Broward Heart Project provides a vital lifeline to people at risk of heart disease, the main cause of death worldwide.
A lifesaving opportunity for Broward County residents
Though many preventive tests remain out of reach for those most in need, heart disease still claims more lives than any other medical condition. Understanding this disparity, County Commissioner Mark D. Bogen led the effort to raise money to offer free cardiac tests for eligible citizens.
Applications must fulfill a few basic criteria to be qualified for a high-tech scan called a free coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), which detects arterial plaque:
- Be a Broward County resident
- Be between 45 and 70 years old
- Meet specific medical risk criteria determined by doctors
- Have health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, or private coverage) to ensure follow-up care if needed
Despite being completely free, the tests require insurance coverage as a precaution. This strategy guarantees that any required medical interventions can be sought without financial constraints and lets the program concentrate on early detection.
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How the screening works
A pillar of the program, the CCTA scan uses low-dose radiation and a contrast dye to create a thorough 3D picture of the arteries of the heart. This lets doctors find both soft and hard plaque accumulation, which can cause heart attacks. Another calcium score test is accessible for those unable to undergo a CCTA for allergies or other medical conditions. This test only detects hardened plaque, so it is rather less comprehensive even though it does not call for contrast dye.The tests are administered by some of Broward County’s top healthcare providers, including:
- Broward Health
- Cleveland Clinic
- Holy Cross Health
- Baptist Health
The eligibility screening and application process are managed by SydCura, a division of Community Care Plan, which operates under Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare System—two of the region’s most trusted healthcare organizations.
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Why this matters
Most people are familiar with preventive screenings like mammograms for breast cancer and colonoscopies for colon cancer, but few realize that heart disease is the number one cause of death in the U.S. Despite this alarming fact, key heart health tests are often not covered by insurance. The Broward Heart Project aims to change that, ensuring more people get screened early—before a life-threatening cardiac event occurs.
For many, this program represents a rare chance to take control of their heart health without financial strain. It’s a proactive approach that could prevent countless heart attacks and save lives across Broward County.
How to get started
Residents who meet the eligibility criteria can begin the application process online through SydCura’s website. The program encourages anyone in the target age range (45-70) to consult with their doctor to determine if they should apply.
Even for those who may not qualify, the message is clear: prioritizing heart health is essential. Regular checkups, a healthy diet, and staying active are just as crucial as screenings. The Broward Heart Project is providing a critical tool in the fight against heart disease, ensuring more residents have access to life-saving information about their cardiovascular health.
This initiative is more than just a pilot program—it’s a step toward a healthier Broward County.
