Cedar County Memorial Hospital Welcomes Cardiologist, David Zuehlke, MD
Heart health matters: new cardiology services and cardiac rehab available in El Dorado Springs
November 3, 2025 – Cedar County Memorial Hospital is pleased to welcome David A. Zuehlke, MD, Cardiologist, to its Specialty Clinic team. Dr. Zuehlke sees patients in El Dorado Springs every other Friday, providing expert cardiac care close to home.
Dr. Zuehlke brings more than four decades of experience in cardiovascular medicine and currently serves on staff at Freeman Heart and Vascular Institute in Joplin, Missouri. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan, followed by his residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in Cardiology at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor. Board certified in both Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease, Dr. Zuehlke has devoted his career to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart disease.
“We are excited to have Dr. Zuehlke providing services here at CCMH,” said Brooke McPeak, FNP-C, who provides cardiology care in tandem with Dr Zuehlke at CCMH. “Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, and having access to a cardiologist right here in our community allows our patients to receive specialized care without the stress or inconvenience of traveling long distances.”
At the CCMH Specialty Clinic, Dr. Zuehlke will provide consultations for patients with coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, hypertension, arrhythmias, and other heart-related conditions. He will also oversee diagnostic evaluations and offer ongoing care for patients recovering from cardiac events or procedures. McPeak also provides diagnostic testing and follow-up care for Dr. Zuehlke’s patients. The hospital is also now offering cardiovascular stress testing to include treadmill stress tests and stress echocardiograms.
“Many people don’t realize that symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or mild chest discomfort may signal an underlying heart issue,” said McPeak. “The earlier a problem is detected, the more options we have to manage it effectively and help the patient live a longer, healthier life.”
To see Dr. Zuehlke at CCMH, individuals may talk with their primary care provider to obtain a referral. Primary care physicians play a vital role in helping patients understand their risks, monitor important health numbers, and determine when a referral to a specialist is appropriate. Self-referral is also accepted.
CCMH encourages all residents to take simple, proactive steps toward protecting their heart health. Regular exercise, eating nutritious foods, managing stress, and getting enough rest all play a major role in keeping the heart strong. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight are equally important.
Experts recommend that adults “know their numbers”—including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI). These key indicators provide valuable insight into overall cardiovascular health.
“Even small improvements can yield big results,” added McPeak. “A 10-minute daily walk, adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet, or cutting back on salt and processed foods all contribute to better heart health over time. It’s about consistency, not perfection.”
For those recovering from a heart attack, heart surgery, or other cardiac event, Cardiac Rehabilitation services are available at the CCMH Specialty Clinic. Cardiac Rehab is a medically supervised program that combines exercise training, education, and emotional support to help patients rebuild strength, improve cardiovascular fitness, and reduce the risk of future heart problems.
McPeak emphasized that rehabilitation is not just about physical recovery—it’s about long-term lifestyle change. “Cardiac Rehab provides a foundation for lifelong health. Patients learn how to exercise safely, make better food choices, and take control of their health moving forward,” she said.
With the addition of Dr. Zuehlke, CCMH continues its mission to expand access to high-quality specialty care for local residents. From cardiology and other specialties, to surgical care and rehabilitation, CCMH remains committed to serving as a trusted partner in health and wellness for Cedar County and surrounding communities.
“Every service we bring to our Specialty Clinic reflects our commitment to caring for the whole person,” said McPeak. “Dr. Zuehlke’s expertise and compassionate approach will be an incredible resource for our patients and their families.”
For more information about cardiology services or Cardiac Rehab, contact the Cedar County Memorial Hospital Specialty Clinic at (417) 876-3613.