Eko Heart Hero | Dr. Stephen Cook
Eko is proud to recognize Dr. Stephen C. Cook, MD, FACC, as the latest recipient of the Eko Heart Hero Award, which honors clinicians making a meaningful difference in cardiovascular care through innovation, leadership, and a deep commitment to improving patient care.
Dr. Cook is currently a non-invasive cardiologist with Franciscan Physician Network, Indiana Heart Physicians. He is widely recognized for his research and leadership in caring for marginalized patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). His work has helped shape the field, particularly in the areas of multimodality imaging, long-term cardiac outcomes, and adult congenital heart disease.
With over 100 published studies focused on quality-of-life metrics and reducing disparities, Dr. Cook has made a lasting impact on clinical practice. Beyond his clinical and academic contributions, Dr. Cook is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion in healthcare.
"23% of Gen Z U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ+. Therefore, cardiologists and trainees require education about the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community to improve cardiovascular outcomes."
“Research demonstrates that the LGBTQ+ community experiences increased cardiovascular disease due to healthcare disparities such as stigma and discrimination,” says Dr. Cook. “The 2025 Gallup poll reveals that 23% of Gen Z U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ+. Therefore, cardiologists and trainees require education about the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community to improve cardiovascular outcomes. Collaborative efforts with Eko and the cardiology community demonstrate that we are dedicated to improving cardiovascular outcomes for the entire LGBTQ+ community.”
As Chair of the American College of Cardiology’s LGBTQ+ Work Group, Dr. Cook has been instrumental in promoting visibility, fostering community, and championing diversity within cardiology.
His contributions to the publication Experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Cardiology Physicians and Fellows and Training have identified not only the sources of mistreatment of LGBTQ+ cardiologists in the workplace, but more importantly, a need to create a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ trainees and physicians in cardiology.
Since 2022, Eko Health has proudly sponsored the ACC LGBTQ+ Networking Reception, hosted by the Work Group during the ACC Annual Scientific Session, as part of our shared commitment to creating more inclusive spaces for healthcare professionals and patients alike.
“Dr. Cook truly reflects the values we champion at Eko. His dedication to clinical excellence, inclusive leadership, and equitable care is helping to shape the future of cardiology in a powerful way,” said Jason Bellet, Eko Health Co-Founder and Chief Business Officer. “We’re honored to celebrate his contributions and grateful for the positive impact he continues to make in the lives of patients and within the medical community.”
Dr. Cook continues to lead with compassion, curiosity, and conviction. His commitment to advancing both innovation and equity makes him an outstanding recipient of the Eko Heart Hero Award.
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