Great Lakes Cardiovascular

2.80 /5 (5 reviews)
Verified Reviews

About

Great Lakes Cardiovascular, situated at 705 Maple Road in the heart of Williamsville, New York, stands as a premier, physician-led practice dedicated exclusively to the comprehensive care of the heart and vascular system. Founded and led by the highly respected Dr. Joseph D. Anain, the practice embodies a profound commitment to advancing cardiovascular health through a fusion of exceptional clinical expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a deeply personalized, patient-first philosophy. Unlike large, impersonal hospital systems or multi-specialty groups where cardiac care can become fragmented, Great Lakes Cardiovascular offers a cohesive, boutique-style experience where continuity of care, direct physician access, and detailed patient education are paramount.

The practice's foundation is built upon the distinguished career and vision of Dr. Anain. A board-certified cardiovascular specialist with credentials in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional Cardiology, Endovascular Medicine, and Vascular Ultrasound, Dr. Anain brought a unique and powerful blend of experience to Western New York. His background includes esteemed training at Georgetown University, service as a Major in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, and leadership roles at major academic and private institutions. In establishing Great Lakes Cardiovascular, his mission was clear: to create a center of excellence that operates with the precision and innovation of an academic center but with the compassionate, individualized attention of a private practice. This mission centers on early detection, accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and lifelong prevention of cardiovascular disease, empowering patients to lead longer, healthier lives.

What truly sets Great Lakes Cardiovascular apart is its holistic and integrated approach to vascular health. Dr. Anain is a pioneer in recognizing the critical interplay between arterial blockages in the heart (cardiology) and those in the legs, neck, and kidneys (vascular medicine). The practice specializes in this unified 'cardio-vascular' model, treating the entire circulatory system as one interconnected unit. This is a significant differentiator, as many clinics separate these disciplines. Patients benefit from a single expert who can diagnose and manage conditions like Coronary Artery Disease, Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), Carotid Artery Disease, and Venous Insufficiency under one roof. This not only provides unparalleled convenience but also leads to more accurate diagnoses and coordinated treatment plans, as symptoms in one area often signal issues in another.

The practice's expertise is showcased through its state-of-the-art, on-site ICAVL-accredited Vascular Ultrasound Laboratory. This in-house capability allows for immediate, high-resolution diagnostic imaging performed by skilled technologists and interpreted directly by Dr. Anain. Patients avoid the delays and inconvenience of external testing facilities, receiving rapid results and diagnoses during the same visit. The practice leverages the latest minimally invasive endovascular techniques, including angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy for blocked arteries, and advanced catheter-based treatments for varicose veins and venous disease. This focus on minimally invasive procedures means less pain, shorter recovery times, and reduced risk for patients compared to traditional open surgery.

Great Lakes Cardiovascular distinguishes itself through an unwavering culture of personalized care. From the initial consultation, patients are not just case numbers; they are partners in their healthcare journey. Dr. Anain and his team invest substantial time in each patient, ensuring they fully understand their condition, the rationale behind recommended treatments, and all available options. The practice environment is designed to be welcoming and comfortable, reducing the anxiety often associated with cardiac and vascular care. This commitment extends to aggressive risk factor management, including tailored guidance on diet, exercise, and medication to halt disease progression. By combining world-class medical skill with genuine empathy, patient education, and a seamless care experience, Great Lakes Cardiovascular has earned its reputation as a trusted, leading authority in cardiovascular wellness in the Buffalo-Niagara region, dedicated not just to treating disease, but to optimizing the lifelong health of every individual it serves.

Additional Details

Specialization: Comprehensive, integrated Cardio-Vascular medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), carotid artery disease, venous insufficiency, and varicose veins using a unified circulatory system approach.
Education & Certifications: Founder Joseph D. Anain, MD, holds the following board certifications: American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional Cardiology); American Board of Vascular Medicine (Endovascular Medicine); Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI). He completed his residency at Georgetown University Hospital and fellowships at Washington Hospital Center.
Professional Memberships: American College of Cardiology, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, American College of Phlebology, Medical Society of the County of Erie, Medical Society of the State of New York.
Awards & Recognitions: Consistently recognized as a 'Top Doctor' in Western New York and by publications such as Buffalo Spree Magazine. The on-site vascular laboratory is accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) in Vascular Testing.
Pricing & Insurance: Accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare. Patients are advised to contact the office directly with specific insurance questions. Pricing for procedures varies based on complexity and insurance coverage; the office provides detailed financial explanations and works to obtain pre-authorizations.

Contact Information

📍 705 Maple Rd, Williamsville, NY 14221, USA
🏢 Williamsville

Location

Customer Reviews

JOSEPH KOERNER
September 18, 2025

I received very professional, courteous service from all with whom I interacted. The front desk person was very polite and efficient assisting me, a new patient. The wait to get called in for my vitals was literally less than two minutes followed by about another two minute wait to be seen. That was incredible as was the attention both personnel provided me. They deserve this 5 star review.

Leesha Irby
October 27, 2025

I saw NP Danielle Sawma , I was impressed ! This lady is very knowledgeable and extremely compassionate/ empathetic. She also knows how to hold a conversation and communicate. When I didn't understand , she explained it to me. Thank you so much for your kindness and authenticity. Great provider and practice.

S L
January 21, 2026

The care is okay, but I wanted a second opinion elsewhere and they make it very difficult to transfer care because they use a third party company to handle medical records. That third party takes an inexcusably long time- like, weeks- to process record requests and straight up lie to you and say that things will be done when they won't. I don't understand why Great Lakes Cardiology doesn't handle its own medical records, nor why they chose such a bad third party to do it for them. My care has been delayed for a month because they chose to work with this third party instead of handling their own records like every other practice on the planet does. Too bad I can't bill them for emergency room costs since that was my only option left, being unable to see a new doctor.

Dan G
March 3, 2026

I was referred to this practice several months ago by my primary. After an initial appt with Dr. Ali, I've sent two follow-up messages through their portal to her/her staff, and nobody has responded to these messages. For reference, one message was sent a month ago, the other, two weeks ago. I've tried calling the practice to speak with someone, and the first time I was on hold for 30 minutes around mid-afternoon (not during their office lunch hour), at which point I had to disconnect because I had to go back to work. I left a message, no call back. The second time is....right now. I've been on hold for 44 minutes (also, not during their lunch hour).They only give you the option to leave a message, but I did that once before, and nobody called. I'll shortly have to disconnect from this call, too. So no phone availability + no email responses through portal = very unhappy patient who's soon to leave Dr. Ali's practice and find a new cardiologist. Dr. Ali herself was fine, but this practice's way of doing business is not, regardless of whichever cardiologist you pick/are referred to. I would recommend you find a cardiologist in a different practice; a practice that actually facilitates communication with their doctors, not one like Great Lakes Cardiology, which actually hinders communication between patient and doctor. (Oh; and a practice where the doctor's office staff actually answers portal messages, not one where they simply ignore them.) At 49:23 minutes, I have to disconnect, as I have other business to attend to. Poor customer service, Great Lakes Cardiology!

Tonya Aust
November 18, 2025

The dr was great. Scheduling and front staff not very helpful. I have talked to them a dozen times for Scheduling and prior auths in October, they just called to tell me they are closed the day they scheduled me for. I may have a blockage they said, but we are going to keep canceling your appointments. The staff that answered the phone today seemed like I was bothering her when I was returning their call. I think its time to try a different practice