At GPR Klinikum, the care of children and adolescents with heart disease is a top priority. With Dr. Christiane Wiethoff, Chief of the Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine and a specialist in pediatric cardiology, the hospital has a proven expert in this field—a specialization that is rare outside of large university hospitals.
At the Pediatric Cardiology Practice at GPR Klinikum, Dr. Wiethoff cares for young patients with congenital heart defects, acquired heart diseases, cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, or circulatory problems—from diagnosis through conservative treatment. If surgery is necessary, it is performed in close collaboration with specialized centers. Follow-up care then takes place close to home at the GPR Clinic—a decisive advantage for families.
For her exceptional expertise, Dr. Wiethoff was recently honored once again by FOCUS-Gesundheit magazine as a “Top Physician” in pediatric cardiology, making her one of the leading specialists in Germany.
“Pediatric cardiology is a highly complex discipline that requires tremendous diagnostic precision. The fact that we maintain this level of expertise here at the GPR Clinic is an invaluable asset for the entire region,” emphasizes PD Dr. Gerd Albuszies, Medical Director of the GPR Clinic.
“When we look into the eyes of our young patients today, we see one thing above all else: a zest for life and a future. Thanks to modern medicine, we can now offer them opportunities that were unthinkable just a few decades ago,” says Dr. Christiane Wiethoff. “It is a labor of love for us every day to accompany these children on their journey and enable them to grow up as carefree as possible.”
About one percent of all newborns in Germany are born with a heart defect. While this diagnosis used to be associated with great uncertainty, medical advances have led to a situation where today over 95 percent of people with a congenital heart defect lead completely normal lives. Even if continuous, often lifelong support is required.
GPR Managing Director Achim Neyer emphasizes: “High-quality medical care for children with congenital heart defects is a central priority of our hospital. Behind every diagnosis is a child with dreams, hopes, and a family seeking support. Our goal is not only to provide these families with medical care of the highest standard, but also to give them a sense of security and confidence. We are proud that, through our expertise and dedication, we can help open up the best possible future prospects for these young patients.”
“Heart Disease Awareness Day” is not only aimed at those affected but at society as a whole. It invites people to take notice, learn more, and show support—whether through volunteer work, donations, or sharing knowledge. The GPR Clinic calls on everyone to mark this day and stand in solidarity with children with heart disease and their families.