Alex Snyder, DO

I was inspired to go into medicine because of my grandfather's unfulfilled dream. He was a pre-med major in college and planned to be a physician but didn't have the means to go to medical school. I'm not just living my dream; I'm living his, too. \n In addition to staying on top of the latest advances in my field - through my membership in the American College of Cardiology - I pride myself on communicating about complex medical conditions in an easy-to-understand way. I love educating my patients - and they tell me they appreciate that I communicate in a way that's easy to understand. \n My blended family includes my wife (who works part-time at Novant Health Heart & Vascular Institute), my adult son and a stepdaughter and stepson.

Cardiology is a very personal field for me, as I have seen the impacts remarkable heart care can have on a patient and a family. My younger brother was born with a heart defect and was not expected to survive his first year. My father suffered from coronary artery disease and required heart surgery when I was young. Because of the quality care they received while I was growing up in Asheville, North Carolina, both my brother and father survived for many years. Seeing that inspired me to pursue a career in cardiology. \n I perform angioplasty and stent procedures, and see patients both in our clinics and local hospitals. I particularly enjoy visiting with patients years after they have presented with heart issues and required emergency care. Our initial treatments are only a first step towards long-term health, and I am proud of being part of that valuable first step. \n Southeastern North Carolina is a great place to call home. I love the opportunities I have here to enjoy multiple watersports including surfing, kitesurfing and sailing. I also enjoy running and biking, and traveling with my family. Together we try to stay as active as possible, something I encourage my patients to strive for as well.

I always enjoyed science class in middle and high school and was fascinated by the multitudes of complex processes that allow the human body to function. I also enjoy being of service to others - something that led me to help plan and lead a medical service trip to Ensenada, Mexico, when I was in college. That trip cemented my desire to become a physician. \n I think the importance of spending time talking with my patients and educating them on everything from their condition to my rationale for ordering certain tests or treatments cannot be overstated. \n Knowledge is power, and I want to empower my patients. Understanding the why is an important part of taking ownership of your own healthcare and creates trust between the patient and provider. \n I was born and raised in Southern California, which is where I met my wife, Sara, who is a North Carolina native. I have steadily made my way eastward and love calling Wilmington home. I enjoy listening to and playing music, taking my dog to the beach and spending time with my family and friends.