When Laura Thielemann moved to the Phillips Creek Ranch neighborhood in Frisco, she knew she wanted to make an impact. As the Associate Vice President of Cardiovascular Services at UT Southwestern Medical Center, she has a passion for heart health. Her deep connection to the Frisco community inspired her to embrace the perfect opportunity when UT Southwestern opened a Cardiovascular Clinic in 2024. 

"My heart is in health care," Thielemann says. "I wanted to use my knowledge and connections to bring heart health awareness and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I’m proud to work for UT Southwestern, where we’re doing exactly that." 

Frisco has long been a health-conscious community known for its active lifestyle and vibrant neighborhoods. Yet, heart health remains a critical focus. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, making preventive care more important than ever. UT Southwestern is committed to helping Frisco residents stay proactive about their heart health by offering leading-edge care right in their backyard. 

At UT Southwestern Medical Center in Frisco, patients can access some of the nation’s best cardiac care. Dr. Carter and Dr. Sanchez are proud to have opened this practice and look forward to serving the community. "Heart health isn’t just about treating conditions — it’s about preventing them," Dr. Carter says. "In Frisco, we’re fortunate to have a community already engaged in healthy living. We aim to build on that foundation by offering preventive screenings, lifestyle coaching, and other tips to improve their heart health.” 

 

While primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in managing overall health, preventive cardiologists offer specialized expertise in heart disease prevention and early detection, even for individuals at average risk. They use advanced tools and detailed risk assessments, such as coronary calcium scoring and genetic testing, to uncover subtle cardiovascular risks that might go unnoticed in a routine annual physical. Preventive cardiologists also stay at the forefront of evolving treatments and guidelines, enabling them to craft highly personalized strategies for managing cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight with a focus on long-term heart health. While not everyone needs to see a preventive cardiologist, those with family history, age-related risk factors, or a desire for a deeper understanding of their cardiovascular health may benefit significantly. 

 

 

While the Frisco campus offers a comprehensive range of general and preventive services, patients who require more advanced care can seamlessly transition to UT Southwestern’s main campus in Dallas. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and groundbreaking research, the Dallas location is home to specialized programs such as heart failure, adult congenital heart disease, valve disorders, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and cardiac surgery. This collaboration ensures that patients in Frisco have access to the full spectrum of care, no matter how complex their needs may be. 

UT Southwestern’s presence in Frisco is about more than just providing medical services. It’s about becoming a part of the community. The cardiology team regularly hosts educational seminars, health fairs, and fitness events to engage residents and promote heart health. "Frisco is a vibrant, active community, and we’re proud to support that," Thielemann says. "Our mission is to keep hearts healthy so that our neighbors can continue living the lives they love." 

Small Changes, Big Results 

One of the key messages UT Southwestern wants to share is that small lifestyle changes can have a big impact on heart health. Whether it’s adding a daily walk, reducing sodium intake, or managing stress through mindfulness, every step counts. "Heart health doesn’t have to be overwhelming," Dr. Sanchez says. "It’s about making sustainable choices and taking one step at a time." 

As Frisco continues to grow, so does UT Southwestern’s commitment to the community. The team plans to expand services and deepen its focus on prevention and education, ensuring that heart health remains a priority for years to come. 

For Thielemann, it’s a vision she’s proud to be part of. "Heart care isn’t just about medicine; it’s about people," she says. "At UT Southwestern, we’re not just treating patients — we’re building relationships, fostering trust, and helping our community thrive. That’s the heartbeat of what we do."