FirstHealth Physician Group (FHPG) recently announced the appointment of William Harris, M.D., as the medical director of cardiology.

As medical director, Dr. Harris will provide clinical oversight as the organization continues to expand its footprint in cardiology, prioritizing innovation and the latest advancements to ensure the delivery of top-tier heart care to the community and region.

“I am honored to serve in this capacity and look forward to building upon the strong foundation of our health system and the delivery of cardiovascular care,” said Dr. Harris in a press release. “Our goal is to remain at the forefront of cardiology care and treatments, delivering excellent, patient-centric care within our region.”

Dr. Harris brings a wealth of experience to his role, having served with FirstHealth Cardiology since 2014. Dr. Harris earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and obtained his medical degree from the UNC School of Medicine. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center and pursued fellowships in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology at the East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine in Greenville.

Dr. Harris’s interest in cardiology stems from his mother’s battle with coronary artery disease, a condition that eventually took her life. That experience fuels his commitment to preventing such outcomes for patients. While serving as FHPG medical director for cardiology, Dr. Harris will maintain his clinical duties, caring for patients at FirstHealth Cardiology locations in Pinehurst and Laurinburg. 

Specializing in interventional cardiology, Dr. Harris focuses on the latest minimally invasive procedures to treat heart and vascular disease. A significant portion of these procedures is performed in the cardiac catheterization lab at FirstHealth’s Reid Heart Center, where Dr. Harris also serves as the medical director, exemplifying his dedication to advancing cardiac care through cutting-edge practices.

“Dr. Harris’s appointment as FirstHealth Physician Group’s medical director for cardiology underscores our commitment to elevating cardiovascular care in our region,” said Dan Barnes, D.O., president of FirstHealth Physician Group, in a press release. “His expertise and leadership will undoubtedly strengthen our capabilities and services, ensuring that our community receives the highest quality heart care.”