Pocono Medical Center (PMC) announced in March 2015 that Nche Zama, MD, PhD, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon and a nationally-recognized leader for clinical and quality outcomes, returned to lead its Cardiothoracic Surgery Program.
During Zama’s previous tenure, PMC gained national recognition as one of the nation’s highest-rated cardiothoracic programs. He rejoins PMC after spending more than two years as the Medical Director, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery Program at Aria Health.
“Dr. Zama’s exceptional track record for superior clinical and quality outcomes fully complements the cardiac services offered within our ESSA Heart and Vascular Institute,” said Jeff Snyder, President and CEO, Pocono Medical Center.
“His leadership and extraordinary clinical skills led to the implementation of the cardiac surgery program in February 2007, and culminated with PMC being named one of the top cardiac surgery programs in the country just a few years later,” continued Snyder.
Zama’s national recognition has been featured in publications such as Consumer Reports which named him as one of the top 25 heart surgeons in 2011. His return to PMC will solidify the Cardiothoracic Surgery Program as the regional destination for patients in need of care.
He earned his Medical Degree from the University of Cincinnati and his PhD in Chemistry and Master of Science Degree in Management from Harvard University. His initial training came at the Cleveland Clinic where he served as Chief Resident. He later went on to train in cardiothoracic surgery and pediatric cardiac surgery at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital, completing his specialized training in cardiac valve and complex cardiac surgery at the University of Paris, Broussais Hospital under the leadership of world renowned surgeon Dr. Alain Carpentier.
In addition to his regular medical practice, Dr. Zama frequently conducts medical missions in Asia, Africa, and South America.