Richard K. Schwartz, DO

I was always fascinated by the sciences. As a biochemistry major in college, I debated between a research career in the field of monoclonal antibody therapy to treat cancer and a career in medicine. After many hours in the laboratory, I realized that it lacked a significant component that I was searching for—people. It was then that I decided to pursue a career in medicine. It was the best of all worlds because it required the integration of science and compassion.

During medical school and my early training as an intern, I developed a deep interest in cardiology. I felt it was a field with great scientific advancements and one in which I could make a significant difference in patients’ lives. During my fellowship, I developed a passion for interventional cardiology, because it is a continually expanding specialty.

As an interventional cardiologist, I have more than 20 years of experience. Currently, I treat patients for all aspects of cardiovascular disease in my office. My specialty is interventional cardiology, which encompasses the treatment of coronary artery disease, valvular disease, and structural heart disease.

The procedures I perform include coronary angiography and coronary interventions with drug-eluting stents, atherectomy, and thrombectomy. I perform all imaging modalities, including intravascular ultrasound and CT scans. I also perform high-risk coronary interventions and procedures with hemodynamic support, including intra-aortic balloon pump and the Impella device.

As medical director of the Transcatheter Valve Program at NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island, I treat people who require transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). With the advent of TAVR and transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR), we are at the forefront of treating valvular heart disease. We are involved in many research protocols, including those for transcatheter mitral repair and the pivotal trial for TMVR for the Medtronic intrepid valve.

At NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island, we are one of the most experienced teams in the country and have excellent outcomes. We have a well-organized team that walks people through the entire treatment process. Our nurse coordinators and navigators are in continuous contact with patients and make sure all tests are performed in a timely manner. They answer any questions patients and their families may have. Our physician assistants are always available for any clinical questions and concerns as well. There is also an entire scheduling team that schedules the tests needed to be performed at the time of patients’ office visits. I personally make myself available for any questions throughout the treatment process.

Our philosophy is to treat patients and families with respect, compassion, and as if they were our family members. We keep our patients informed of all their options, explaining all possible therapies and the associated risks.