What the “Cardiology Deserts” Survey Means for Pharma

A new national survey from the Association of Black Cardiologists has uncovered a serious gap in heart health awareness and access across the United States. Large regions of the country are becoming what the organization calls “cardiology deserts,” places where people struggle to get basic cardiovascular care and lack essential knowledge about their own heart health.

With support from Amgen, the “Every Heart Counts: ABC Cardiology Deserts Campaign” is pushing these findings into the spotlight. The results are troubling. In the southern United States, nearly half of adults cannot identify the difference between good cholesterol and bad cholesterol. Even more concerning is how few people know their own cholesterol number. Only about a third of respondents could recall it, and the number drops sharply among Hispanic and Black adults. Awareness is low across many groups, but these communities are particularly affected.

Access is just as much of a problem as awareness. Many people reported that they need to travel between ten and twenty miles just to see a heart specialist. In states such as Louisiana, Georgia, Arkansas and Mississippi, the shortage of cardiologists is especially severe. A significant portion of people who attempted to schedule an appointment were unable to secure one. Even more alarming is the fact that nearly one in five Black and Hispanic adults has never had a cardiovascular screening.

The survey also revealed a worrying mindset among older adults, rural residents and women. Roughly one in five believed they did not need heart care at all, despite being part of higher-risk populations.

This campaign is not just informational. The Association of Black Cardiologists is working within these underserved regions to build stronger local infrastructure. They are training primary care providers, improving LDL screening practices and speaking directly with communities that have historically been left behind. Amgen’s involvement adds another dimension to the effort. It reflects a commitment to improving cardiovascular outcomes and addressing longstanding health inequities.

For pharma marketers, the message is clear. These cardiology deserts represent a profound gap in patient engagement, education and support. They also present an opportunity to create meaningful impact. Brands that invest in real community-level initiatives, rather than relying solely on traditional advertising, will be better positioned to build trust and improve outcomes. The work requires consistent presence, cultural understanding and a willingness to go where help is most needed.

The cardiology desert crisis reminds the industry that awareness and access are still deeply uneven. Closing these gaps will take more than campaigns. It will take commitment, partnership and a long-term focus on equity. For companies willing to lead, the chance to make a measurable difference in cardiovascular health is enormous.

G-Med excels in HCP marketing by blending digital innovation with data-driven insights, creating an effective platform for reaching healthcare professionals, offering various advertising solutions. By using G-Med to engage HCPs, share data reports, and explore innovative channels, marketers can deliver targeted, impactful messages that foster strong connections. G-Med’s approach ensures that each campaign is tailored, scientifically rigorous, and effective, aligning perfectly with the best practices for successful HCP marketing.   

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