February 2026

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the U.S. The American Heart Association reports that while deaths from heart attacks have declined, other heart-related conditions like heart failure and arrythmia are increasing.

Though heart disease is common, there are many ways to reduce risk and improve heart health. Early screening, education, and adopting heart-healthy habits can help reduce the risk of CVD. Managing cholesterol and diet, blood pressure, and blood sugar are also key components to a healthy heart.

“It’s important for people of all ages to take steps to prevent heart disease, especially if they are at increased risk because of factors like high cholesterol or blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, or family history,” said cardiologist Christopher Lambert, MD, FACC.

For patients needing a full range of cardiovascular care, Regional West provides services through the cardiology clinic, Heart Center, and the cardiac rehabilitation program. The clinic offers many non-invasive cardiology services, including cardiac stress tests, cardiac pacemakers, and echocardiograms, to treat heart issues such as coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attacks, and congestive heart failure. The Heart Center features a completely remodeled and updated catheterization lab and equipment. 

The cardiac rehabilitation program, located in Regional West’s Rehab Center, is one of only two programs the panhandle accredited by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) to meet and exceed the essential standards of care for cardiac rehab patients.

"The cardiac rehabilitation program is proud to be AACVPR accredited and here to help our region’s heart and lung patients,” said Sheree Verbeck, RN, BSN, a member of the cardiac rehabilitation team. “Our patients receive individualized treatment and exercise plans, as well as ongoing and focused education from our team of ACLS certified nurses in the Rehab Center.”

Click here to learn more about Regional West’s Heart & Lung services.


Great things are happening at Regional West and we’re excited to spread the word! Nurses, join us at six regional locations in February and March for networking

with Regional West nurse leaders – and play a little trivia. We can’t wait to share

all the great benefits you’ll receive as a Regional West employee, including career growth opportunities; a commitment to ongoing education, skill development, and certification support; flexible staffing models designed to support work‑life balance; and competitive compensation with newly increased wages. All events are from 
4 to 6 p.m.

If you need a mental health appointment after work hours, Regional West Physicians Clinic-Psychiatry & Behavioral Health is here for you. Ana Cerrato-Young, PMHNP-BC, now sees patients until 7 p.m. every Thursday!



To schedule your appointment, call the clinic at 308-635-3888. For more information about our services, click here.

Activate Your MyChart Account Now!


Discover the convenience of MyChart, Regional West’s patient portal! You can easily activate your account to request prescription refills, pay your bill online, message your provider, and even e-check in before your visit. Check out the video to see how simple and quick it is to get started!

Visiting Regional West

Visitors of all ages are welcome to Regional West Medical Center during normal visiting hours, which are 7 a.m. to

8 p.m. daily. Visitors under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

If visiting the hospital 
after 8 p.m., please use the Emergency Department entrance.

Thank you for choosing Regional West!

308-630-2244

Regional West Foundation has kicked off our Grateful Patient program! This program provides patients and their families a way to show gratitude toward a physician, provider, nurse, employee, or department who played a special role in their care.

If you know someone at Regional West who has made your care special, we invite you to share your story and make a donation in his or her name. They will then be recognized by the Foundation.

Click here to view the donation information form, or call the Foundation at 308-630-1485 to make a donation in someone’s name.

Stroke Support Group

Second Tuesday of every month

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Regional West Medical Plaza South

Conference Room 1

3911 Ave. B l Scottsbluff

For more information, contact

Gene McDowell at 308-630-2046.

Weight Loss Support Group

First Wednesday of every month

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Regional West Medical Plaza South

Conference Room 1

3911 Ave. B l Scottsbluff

For more information, contact

Amber Schulze, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, 
at 308-632-2872.

Cancer Survivors Support Group

Fourth Tuesday of every month

5:30 p.m.

Cancer Treatment Center

Medical Plaza South, ground floor

3911 Ave. B l Scottsbluff

Call 308-630-1348 for more information.