I had an experience at UPMC Altoona worth sharing. May 13, I woke up with chest pains at 4:30 a.m.; alarmed but hoping the feeling would pass.

When the pain persisted, I was worried. Where should I go?

After much agonizing, I ended up in the UPMC Altoona Emergency Department at about 9 a.m.

Within a couple minutes, I was called back and immediately had an EKG and other vital signs checked. Five minutes after that, I was in a bed, hooked up to monitors and an IV was started for extensive blood testing.

My morning was one of continual monitoring and personal attention, probing questions from ER doctors and nurses; phlebotomists taking more blood; the arrival of a mobile X-ray unit to take pictures; visits from the hospitalists, the chaplain, patient access and two cardiologists.

I stayed overnight for observation, and early the next morning had a nuclear stress test with CT scans before and after.

To my relief, each professional explained what was going on, what testing was needed, what the results were, and what would happen next. Every encounter with each health care professional reflected their concern for my well-being; they exhibited professionalism, patience and kind attention to my questions.

I was extremely confident and appreciative of the care. I didn’t have a heart attack thankfully, but I did gain a firsthand appreciation for the health care team we have so close to home. UPMC Altoona, thank you for taking such good care of me.

Barbara Kooman

Altoona