Healthy Heart Brings Free Screenings to Record Nine Locations April 18

Henry Ford Health’s long‑running Healthy Heart screening event will reach more communities than ever this year. The free program expands to a record nine locations on April 18, including three first‑time sites: Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, and Henry Ford Medical Center – Second Avenue in Detroit, near Henry Ford Health’s flagship Henry Ford Hospital.

Now in its 21st year, Healthy Heart continues to grow its impact across Southeast Michigan and beyond. With the addition of Jackson County, the event will take place in a record five counties, and for the first time, at two Detroit locations — Second Avenue and Henry Ford St. John Hospital.

“This growth is incredibly exciting because it means we’re reaching more people, in more neighborhoods, with information that can truly save lives,” said Dr. Shukri David, co-Medical Director of Heart and Vascular Services at Henry Ford Health, who helped start the event in 2005. “Seeing Healthy Heart expand to nine locations — including new communities like Jackson County — speaks to the level of commitment our teams have to heart health and prevention.”

Since launching in 2005, Healthy Heart has provided free cardiovascular screenings to nearly 20,000 participants. About 1,000 people received free checkups last year alone, when the event was held at a then‑record six locations.

Healthy Heart organizers are taking a deliberate aim to increase access to preventive care in communities that historically face higher rates of heart disease and barriers to routine screenings, like Detroit.

Detroit residents experience disproportionately higher rates of cardiovascular disease, often compounded by limited access to preventive services. Bringing free heart screenings directly into the city’s center helps close that gap, offering early detection and education that can significantly change long‑term outcomes for individuals who may not regularly see a physician.

“Expanding Healthy Heart to two Detroit sites is incredibly important,” said Dr. Henry Kim, chief of cardiology at Henry Ford Hospital. “Cardiovascular disease is highly prevalent in our urban communities, and improving access to early screening is one of the most effective ways we can reduce disparities. These events allow us to connect directly with people who need this care the most — before serious problems develop.”

The first event in West Bloomfield means a record three locations available for Oakland County residents.

Heart disease remains the nation’s leading cause of death, according to the American Heart Association.

“The goal has always been early detection,” Dr. David said. “These screenings don’t replace regular care with a physician, but they do give people a powerful starting point — especially for those who may not have access to care.”

Participants receive a free whole‑heart checkup, including an electrocardiogram (EKG), along with blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and blood glucose screenings. Attendees will receive their results the same day and meet one‑on‑one with a doctor. Stroke assessments and education on weight loss, diet, and nutrition are also provided.

In addition to the three new sites, Healthy Heart will take place April 18 at Henry Ford Genesys Heart Center in Grand Blanc; Henry Ford Macomb Hospital; Henry Ford Rochester Hospital; Henry Ford Providence Southfield Hospital; Henry Ford St. John Hospital in Detroit; and Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital.

No appointment is required. Screenings begin at 7 a.m. at all locations, and participants should be in line by 11 a.m. to ensure participation.

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MEDIA CONTACT: mediarelations@hfhs.org