First-year results of a community peripheral vascular screening program at an academic community hospital

Disease associated with the vascular system, including peripheral arterial disease, poses a serious health problem with incidence growing annually. Recognizing this, several health care organizations across the United States have developed programs for public education and community awareness, and for screening individuals at risk for vascular disease. Lehigh Valley Hospital developed and implemented a screening program that evaluated more than 160 individuals during a 12-month period. Results suggest that screening should be limited to patients at high risk; however, the intrinsic value of patient education and patient peace of mind is worth proceeding with the screening effort because patients reported a positive experience.