About Us
Dr. Runkana is a dedicated cardiologist providing care to patients in the Montgomery area. He treats and manages patients at two major healthcare facilities: Baptist Medical Center South and Baptist Medical Center East. Dr. Runkana's role involves diagnosing and managing cardiovascular conditions among patients admitted to these hospitals,, where he collaborates with other medical professionals to ensure comprehensive cardiac care. His services at these facilities cover a range of cardiovascular needs, from acute interventions to ongoing monitoring and treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific condition. Dr. Runkana's commitment to delivering high-quality cardiology care within the hospital setting plays an essential role in addressing the needs of patients experiencing cardiac issues in the Montgomery area.
OUR MISSION
At Heart and Vascular Associates of Alabama, our mission is to provide exceptional cardiology services to all of our patients. We are committed to delivering the highest quality care in an environment that is supportive and encouraging. We strive to cultivate positive relationships with our patients, referring physicians, and team members, as we believe that strong connections are essential to optimal healthcare outcomes.
OUR VISION
Our vision at Heart and Vascular Associates of Alabama is to be the premier cardiology provider in our community, known for our compassionate care and commitment to excellence. We aim to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all of our patients, where everyone feels heard and valued. We believe that by fostering positive relationships and delivering exceptional care, we can improve the overall health and well-being of our patients and our community.
Doctors
Dr. Ashok Runkana – Biography
Dr. Ashok Runkana, MD, MS, FACC, is a highly skilled interventional cardiologist specializing in coronary, structural, and endovascular arterial and venous interventions. With a clinical career spanning over a decade, Dr. Runkana is recognized for his expertise in complex coronary procedures, peripheral and carotid interventions, and cutting-edge transcatheter techniques for structural heart disease.
Dr. Runkana earned his medical degree from Andhra Medical College in India and pursued advanced education, including a Master’s in Occupational Health from the University of Texas Health Science Center. His robust training includes an Internal Medicine Residency at the Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital, where he was awarded Best Graduating Resident, followed by Cardiovascular Medicine and Interventional Cardiology fellowships at West Virginia University and St. Vincent Hospital, respectively. He also completed a rotating fellowship in endovascular interventions at Yale School of Medicine.…
Josie Free, CRNP
Josie is an accomplished and skilled healthcare provider with a strong passion and dedication to serving her patients and community. Josie was born and raised here in Montgomery, Alabama, leading to her passion for the community.
Josie received her BSN from Auburn University at Montgomery in 2017 and began her nursing career as an Emergency Room Nurse. Dedicated to advancing her practice, Josie pursued her Master’s Degree in Family Nurse Practitioner at Troy University, graduating in 2021. Josie gained a wealth of knowledge and experience while being an Acute Care Hospitalist Nurse Practitioner for close to 3 years, leading to her interest in pursuing the speciality of Cardiology.
While not working, Josie enjoys spending time with her family, reading, Disney World and going to the beach.
Josie looks forward to providing the best cardiac care possible to the patients of Montgomery and the surrounding areas.
