American Heart Association–Central Arkansas honors NPMC cardiologist at Hot Springs Heart Ball
February 25, 2026
The American Heart Association–Central Arkansas named Dr. David Robert Dobies, a board‑certified interventional cardiologist at National Park Medical Center, as the 2026 recipient of the Howe–Warren Award for Excellence, presented at this year’s 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. The 2026 ball was Feb. 7 at the Hot Springs Convention Center.
Dobies has more than 25 years of experience treating complex heart problems. He specializes in opening badly blocked arteries, performing delicate procedures in hard‑to‑reach areas of the heart and using advanced imaging tools to guide treatment with precision. He practices throughout the Hot Springs area, including National Park Cardiology Associates and its satellite clinics, where he provides high‑acuity coronary care to patients who might otherwise need to travel long distances for specialized treatment.
Throughout his career, Dobies has led more than two dozen major medical studies involving hospitals across the country. His research has helped shape national guidelines on the best ways to prevent blood clots, manage cholesterol and use new heart‑treatment devices. His findings have been published in leading peer‑reviewed journals and presented at national and international cardiovascular conferences. He is also a fellow of both the American College of Cardiology and the European Society of Cardiology — a dual distinction uncommon among U.S. cardiologists.
“Dr. Dobies is committed to fighting heart disease in absolute alignment with the mission of the American Heart Association,” said Dr. Srinivas Vengala, 2026 Heart Ball co‑chair along with his wife, Sapna Vengala. “His dedication to patients and to strengthening cardiovascular care in Hot Springs makes him an exceptional choice for this year’s Howe–Warren Award.”
“It is a tremendous honor to be recognized with an award that carries the legacy of Drs. Howe and Warren,” Dr. Dobies said. “Every day, my goal is to ensure patients in our community receive world‑class cardiovascular care close to home. I am grateful to the American Heart Association for its relentless work to improve heart health, and I’m proud to support that mission.”
The ball was supported by presenting sponsor CHI St. Vincent and signature sponsor National Park Medical Center. The affair featured a survivor story, dinner, dancing, a live auction and introduction of the 2026 class of Hot Springs Sweethearts. The event drew about 800 people and raised upward of $275,000.
The 2026 Hot Springs Heart Ball helps fund the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers™ initiative, which aims to empower more people with CPR and AED skills that can dramatically improve outcomes from cardiac arrest.