Staff Reports | Community Updates
Banner Health is announcing that five nationally recognized cardiovascular specialists with decades of experience have joined the organization.
Led by David Rizik, MD, interventional cardiologist and renowned clinical researcher, the group of trusted cardiologists will add to Banner’s nationally recognized heart program.
Dr. Rizik, celebrated worldwide for his contributions to the field, has led many of the most influential clinical trials in coronary and valvular heart disease. His groundbreaking research has been instrumental in securing Food and Drug Administration approval for a range of innovative cardiovascular technologies.
In recognition of his outstanding career, Dr. Rizik has been named a “Master Interventionalist” by the Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions—an honor reserved for the very top tier of interventional cardiologists globally.
As physician leader for Banner’s cardiovascular services, he will oversee clinical quality and help drive continued advancement in cardiovascular care and treatment.
Dr. Rizik and his team will continue serving the heart health needs of the Scottsdale community, helping expand Banner’s nationally recognized programs further across Maricopa County. The team includes Robert Burke, MD, who is widely regarded for his expertise in advanced cardiac imaging. Alongside the veteran experience of Kevin Klassen, MD, Imad Khaled, MD, and Ankur Gupta, MD; the group brings enduring ties to the Scottsdale community and will now anchor Banner – University Medicine Cardiology Scottsdale.
“As a physician who works alongside these patients every day, this expansion represents a pivotal moment in Banner Health’s mission to deliver comprehensive cardiovascular care to our communities,” said Roderick Tung, MD, director of Banner – University Medicine Heart Institute, and division chief of cardiology at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix.
“Bringing these nationally recognized specialists to our team means we can offer more advanced treatment options and collaborative care approaches that simply weren’t possible before. We’re building the strongest heart care program in the state of Arizona and among the best in the country, which means patients will receive the highest level of cardiac care close to home, reducing the burden on families while ensuring access to world-class expertise.”
The cardiovascular experts bring specialized skills in advanced cardiac procedures, structural heart disease, preventive cardiology and clinical research aimed at innovating care options. Their addition to Banner’s already robust cardiovascular program will significantly expand treatment options available to patients in Scottsdale and surrounding communities.
“I’m thrilled to join Banner Health’s integrated network advancing cardiovascular care across Arizona and beyond,” said Dr. Rizik.
“Their academic partnership with the University of Arizona brings research-backed protocols and specialized expertise directly to communities. As a researcher and interventional cardiology leader, Banner’s innovative environment aligns perfectly with my passion for collaboration that drives meaningful patient outcomes.”
Banner – University Medicine Cardiology Scottsdale will see patients beginning in early October within Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale, found at Loop 101 and Talking Stick Way. The practice will relocate to the new Banner Health Center plus once construction is complete at Loop 101 and Hayden Road. A concierge line has been established to support current and new patients during the onboarding to Banner Health. Patients should call 602-521-3166.
