A STEMI (ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction) is one of the most severe types of heart attack, carrying a substantial risk of serious complications and even death. Immediate medical intervention is critical, and at Frankston Hospital, a dedicated team of specialists works tirelessly to provide life saving care.
The team consists of an Interventional Cardiologist, two Registered Nurses, a Cardiac Technologist, and a Radiographer, who each play a vital role in delivering swift and effective treatment.
Peninsula Health’s STEMI service covers a vast region, including the Mornington Peninsula, Frankston, Bayside, Southeast Gippsland (including Wonthaggi), and the Bass Coast (including Phillip Island).
“Consistently ranked among the top four busiest hospitals for STEMI cases in Victoria, Frankston Hospital handles a considerable number of emergency cardiac interventions,” explains Dr Robert Lew, Head of Cardiology at Peninsula Health.
“Each year, 30–40% of all Percutaneous Coronary Interventions (PCI)—a procedure used to restore blood flow to the heart—are performed on our emergency STEMI patients.”
Behind the scenes, the STEMI team operates 24/7, always ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. As part of an on-call service, staff are required to arrive at the hospital within 30 minutes of being called. This rapid response is essential, as any delay in treatment increases the risk of irreversible damage to the heart muscle.
The gold standard for heart attack treatment is to restore blood flow within 90 minutes of symptom onset. Frankston Hospital consistently meets this target, ensuring that STEMI patients receive the critical care they need without delay.
As demand for emergency cardiac care continues to grow, Peninsula Health remains at the forefront, providing rapid, high-quality interventions across the region. With a highly skilled team and a steadfast focus on innovation and efficiency, Frankston Hospital’s STEMI service plays a vital role in saving lives—when every second counts.