Cardiology

A New Rhythm of Heart Care

Morgan Medical Center now provides specialized cardiovascular care, advanced cardiac imaging, heart rhythm management, and device thereapy—all close to home.

Led by board-certified cardiologist Dr. John Layher, our dedicated team delivers top-tier, patient-centered care so you never have to travel far from your community for the best care possible. Our approach emphasizes early detection, prevention, and individualized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal heart health.

Our Specialized Cardiac Services

Cardiovascular Evaluation & Care

Preventive cardiology and heart disease risk reduction
Coronary artery disease evaluation and management
Heart failure diagnosis and treatment
Valvular heart disease evaluation
Cardiac arrhythmia evaluation and management

Advanced Cardiac Imaging

Echocardiography
Cardiac CT (coronary CTA)
Cardiac MRI
Nuclear cardiology
Vascular ultrasound

Device Therapy & Monitoring

Pacemaker implantation
Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices
In-office and remove pacemaker/CD monitoring

Board-Certified Cardiologist

John Layher, MD

Accepting new patients.

Dr. John Layher is a board-certified cardiologist providing comprehensive, patient-centered cardiac care to Morgan Medical Center and the communities we service. His approach to care emphasizes early detection, prevention, and individualized treatment plans to help patients achieve better heart health close to home.

Dr. Layher earned his medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine, completed his residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and completed his cardiology fellowship at Indiana University School of Medicine. Most recently, Dr. Layher served as Vice President of Cardiac Services for St. Mary’s Medical Group and Oconee Heart and Vascular Center.

Certified Physician Assistant

Jennifer Bowers, PA-C

Accepting new patients.

Jennifer Bowers is a motivated and detail-oriented licensed physician assistant dedicated to advancing access to high-quality rural healthcare in Morgan County.

Jennifer earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Augusta University and completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology, graduating summa cum laude, at The University of North Georgia. Most recently, Jennifer served as a physician assistant in Greensboro, bringing valuable clinical experience from St. Mary’s Medical Group and theOconee Heart and Vascular Center.

Certified Nurse Practitioner

Christina Ross, NP-C

Accepting new patients.

Christina Ross, NP-C is a compassionate cardiology nurse practitioner providing inpatient and outpatient cardiovascular care with a strong focus on improving access to high-quality cardiac services in rural Georgia.

Christina earned both her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Atlanta. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion from the University of Georgia. Most recently, Christina served as a nurse practitioner for Oconee Heart & Vascular Center in Greensboro, Georgia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Should See a Cardiologist?

You may benefit from seeing a cardiologist if you have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness, high blood pressure, or a history of heart disease. Your primary care provider may also refer you for evaluation or ongoing heart care.

Do I Need A Referral?

Some insurance plans require a referral from your primary care provider, while others do not. If you’re unsure, our team can help you determine your insurance requirements before scheduling your appointment.

What Services Does Your Cardiology Team Provide?

Our cardiology team provides specialized cardiovascular evaluation, advanced imaging, heart rhythm management, and ongoing cardiac care, including:

Preventive cardiology and heart disease
Coronary artery disease
Heart failure diagnosis and treatment
Valvular heart disease
Cardiac arrhythmia
Pacemaker implantation
Device therapy, implantation, and monitoring

What Can I Expect During My First Appointment?

During your initial visit, your cardiologist will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and determine whether additional testing is needed. Together, you’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on your heart health.

What Heart Tests Are Available?

Depending on your needs, we offer or coordinate a variety of diagnostic services, which may include:

Echocardiography
Nuclear Cardiology
Coronary CT (Coronary CTA)
Vascular Ultrasound
Cardiac MRI

When Should I Seek Emergency Care Instead of Scheduling An Appointment?

If you are experiencing severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, sudden weakness, or other signs of a heart attack or stroke, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not wait for a clinic appointment.

How Do I Schedule An Appointment?

To request an appointment, call our Outpatient Clinics at (706) 438-1275. Our staff will help schedule your visit and answer any questions about referrals, insurance, or what to bring to your appointment.