HOT SPRINGS, Ark., Feb. 15, 2025 – Dr. Daniel McCoy, a distinguished cardiovascular, thoracic, and vascular surgeon at National Park Medical Center, was awarded the prestigious Howe–Warren Award for Excellence Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Hot Springs Heart Ball.

The award, named after Dr. Joe Howe and Dr. Edward Taliaferro Warren, recognizes outstanding contributions to cardiovascular medicine. Howe and Warren, both retired surgeons with over 45 years of service each, were the inaugural recipients of this award in 2024.

“It is my distinct honor to receive an award named after the heart surgery pioneers in Hot Springs,” said McCoy.

“Dr. McCoy’s efforts ensure that patients in Hot Springs receive top-tier cardiac care without the need to travel far from home,” said Nikki Smith, executive director of the American Heart Association-Central Arkansas.

McCoy has been a vital part of the Hot Springs community for seven years, bringing over 30 years of experience in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. He joined the medical staff at National Park Medical Center in 2018 under Warren. When Warren retired at the end of 2020, McCoy became the solitary cardiovascular surgeon on the hospital’s medical staff. 

“His interest in the well-being of his surgical patients was so thorough, that many perceived him as their actual primary care physician, not just cardiovascular surgeon,” McCoy said of Warren. “A greater role model of medical practice does not exist. This community has benefited greatly from his expertise, and I strive to continue the excellent cardiovascular surgical care provided by Drs. Warren and Howe for so many years.

“Recognition of me with this award, is also recognition of the dedication, knowledge, and care provided by so many other providers and by our heart surgery team,” he added.

McCoy received an undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia, a medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, and residencies in general and thoracic surgery at the University of Mississippi and the University of Tennessee, respectively. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery.

The Howe–Warren Award highlights McCoy’s commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission of promoting heart health for everyone. His work not only saves lives but also enhances the quality of life for countless individuals in the Hot Springs area, Smith said.

The 2025 Hot Springs Heart Ball co-chairpersons were Lindsey and Dr. Jason Pelton, an interventional cardiologist with CHI St. Vincent in Hot Springs. The event held at the Hot Springs Convention Center was sponsored locally by CHI St. Vincent, Ouachita Regional Pain Management and National Park Medical Center and featured stories of survivors, dinner, dancing, a live auction and introduction of the 2025 class of Hot Springs Sweethearts. The event was expected to draw about 800 people and raise upward of $280,000.

The campaign is raising funds and awareness for the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers, an initiative aimed at empowering bystanders to become lifesavers through CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) education. The program seeks to increase the number of people who can respond effectively to cardiac emergencies, thereby improving survival rates.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook or X by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org