MOBILE, Alabama (April 11, 2024) — Uzoma Obiaka, M.D., M.P.H., a board-certified pediatric cardiologist, has been named director of the Pediatric Echo Lab at USA Health Pediatric Cardiology. Located in USA Health’s Strada Patient Care Center, the lab is accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) in fetal echocardiography.

“Knowing the critical importance of pediatric echocardiography in the care and well-being of our youngest patients, it is with great honor that I take on this responsibility,” said Obiaka, who is also an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama. “I am committed to advancing the field of pediatric echocardiography, pushing the boundaries of knowledge, and improving outcomes for our patients. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of pediatric cardiology, it is imperative that we remain steadfast in our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and patient-centered care.”

Echocardiography is a noninvasive ultrasound study often used to evaluate heart structure and function. Each year, more than 35,000 infants in the United States are born with congenital heart defects making it the most common type of birth defect. Unfortunately, congenital heart defects cause more deaths during the first year of life than any other birth defect.

“We are delighted Dr. Obiaka is taking on this new role,” said Lynn A. Batten, M.D., a professor of pediatrics and director of the Division of Pediatric Cardiology at USA Health. “Since joining USA Health, she has worked tirelessly to deliver the highest quality of cardiovascular care for children.”

Obiaka earned a medical degree from the University of Nigeria in Nsukka and a master’s in public health from Southern Connecticut State University, in New Haven, Connecticut. She completed a pediatric residency at BronxCare Health System in the Bronx, N.Y., and a fellowship in pediatric cardiology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, NY.

Obiaka said she is honored to work alongside a dedicated staff in the pediatric echo lab. “Their commitment to excellence, compassionate care, and pursuit of knowledge are the pillars upon which our success rests,” she noted. “Together, we form a formidable team poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.”