Dr. James T. Heywood, MD

Dr. Heywood is an amazing doctor. Without his care I wouldn't be here today. After being told I needed heart transplant at Palomar medical center, I had to get a second option. I was recommended to see Dr. Heywood and he saved my life after being diagnosed with viral cardiomyopithy. With a consistent medication regimen and rest I'm able to live life as a normal man that I use to be. His staff were all great people. Nicole, Dr. Heywood's physicians assistant was an important part of his staff was so pleasant to see at my appointments. She always helped me in the most positive ways when visiting Doctor Heywood. The staff at the script hospital are great people and help save so many life's. My family and I are so great full for them and the hospital.

I was diagnosed in 2015 with early stage pulmonary hypertension by Dr. Heywood. He immediately put me on meds to keep it from progressing. Four years later I am still early stage and doing well. He and his team stay on top of the PH, watch for any progression and immediately act on it if there is anything that needs attention. A year ago, my breathing got a little worse so he changed my meds, and i am right back where i was, doing great. He just KNOWS what to do. He is very positive and always tells me not to worry, that he has many treatments to help me. He has given me hope that i may live a long time with this often fatal disease. I live an hour away, but would drive many hours if i had to. Dr. Heywood and his team are the very best. I am SO blessed to have them caring for me. I can't thank him enough!

I was referred to Dr Heywood when Dr Ahern (the cardiologist who put in my pacemaker then my pacer/defibrillator) discovered I had developed significant heart failure at 55 yrs old. My EF went from 65% to 29%.....prob after a viral heart infection. Dr Heywood and his team saved my life. Five yrs later my EF was almost normal and I no longer needed oxygen at less than 4500 ft. We live in the mountains at 5700 ft and we're afraid we'd have to sell our home to live at a lower elevation. I drive 2.5 hrs for my appts and it's worth every minute to have such a smart, helpful, and caring team. There are no words for the level of appreciation, and respect I have for Dr Heywood and his team. I am a former SCRIPPS employee which only increases my gratitude towards him. I know how easily it could have "gone the other way." When I am with my kids and grandkids I often say a prayer of thanks for my restoration. God bless Dr Heywood!

Six years ago, I arrived at Scripps in fear for my life.I was too young to have heart failure! My cardiologist in Orange County had told me I was fine, just getting fat over the last two years. When I could no longer breathe while walking to the car, he decided to do a heart catheterization. Where previously I had only been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, I was now in severe heart failure. After Dr. Heywood's charming and delightfully funny nurse had me slowly walking up and down the hall, among other tests, I was introduced to Dr. Heywood. He reviewed my labs and tests, listened to my heart and lungs and examined my feet and neck. Standing up, he promptly said I had 40 pounds of water on me. He explained that he was giving me water pills and other medications to help improve my heart and breathing. I lost 40 pounds of water in one week. He saved my life. He is always cheerful and kind. I knew he was brilliant, but his charisma and caring manner made me always feel comfortable with him. I trust him explicitly. I return faithfully to his team of highly experienced and genuinely caring staff every year. In the beginning I was making the drive every week or two, without a qualm. I would unequivocally recommend him and his team to anyone. It's a two hour drive from Yorba Linda, but well worth it.

Been referred to Dr. Heywood. Can't say enough good things about him and his staff, they are always helpful, polite and courteous. Dr. Heywood is the man and I'm very fortunate he is my cardiologist.