Harris Regional continues expansion of cardiology services with addition of Karl Feaster, PA-C

Harris Regional Hospital is pleased to announce the continued expansion of cardiology services with the addition of Karl Feaster, PA-C, to its medical staff. Feaster will see patients beginning October 1 at Harris Cardiology, located at 80 Healthcare Drive, Suite 201 in Sylva, alongside Marc Levine, MD; Uchechukwu Sampson, MD; Nadarajah Srikumar, MD; and Bryant Reinking, PA-C.

Feaster earned his Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Wingate University after completing his Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. His clinical training included rotations in cardiothoracic surgery, internal medicine, emergency medicine, intensive care, family medicine, general surgery, and other specialties.

His interest in medicine began during his military service, where he had opportunities to help care for fellow service members. That experience ultimately led him toward a career in healthcare and, later, the physician assistant profession.

Before becoming a physician assistant, Feaster worked as an emergency medical technician with Union Emergency Medical Services. He also served as an infantry squad leader with the 1st Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, U.S. Army.

Feaster said he was drawn to cardiology because of the central role the heart plays in overall health and the opportunity to help patients better understand and manage conditions that can affect nearly every aspect of daily life.

“I find it especially rewarding to help people understand their condition and empower them to regain or maintain a sense of control over their health,” Feaster said.

His approach to patient care is direct while remaining patient-centered, with an emphasis on clear communication and shared goals. He said he believes effective care begins with understanding how each patient best receives information and working together toward practical health goals.

“We are pleased to welcome Karl to Harris Regional and our cardiology team,” said Ashley Hindman, CEO of Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital. “His clinical training, emergency care experience, and leadership background will be valuable additions to our team, and we look forward to the perspective he will bring as we continue serving the cardiovascular needs of our community.”

Originally from Charlotte, Feaster moved to western North Carolina near the end of physician assistant school and quickly developed an appreciation for the area and its sense of community. His partner’s family also lives locally, giving him additional opportunities to become connected to the region.

Feaster said the culture at Harris Regional stood out to him during the recruitment process, describing the team as warm, welcoming, and family-oriented. He is also looking forward to working alongside and learning from Uchechukwu Sampson, MD, as well as building relationships with patients and the broader community.

Outside of work, Feaster enjoys mountain biking, rock climbing and riding his horse, Journey. He is also a technology enthusiast and enjoys building and tinkering with computers and smart-home technology.

Heart health is an important part of lifelong wellness and access to experienced cardiology care can make a meaningful difference in both prevention and treatment. Harris Regional Hospital is an accredited Chest Pain Center, reflecting its commitment to timely, evidence-based care for patients experiencing heart-related emergencies. Anyone experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, pain radiating to the arm, back, neck or jaw, sudden sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness should call 911 or seek emergency care right away.