Heart Failure: Key Challenges
Heart failure is a chronic, progressive condition. There could be several underlying factors that could contribute to this condition. Heart Failure has high levels of mortality with the highest risk being immediately post-discharge from the hospital. The number of people with HF is growing mainly due to the ageing population and increased survival rates of other cardiovascular conditions.
Main challenge with heart failure management is the fragmented care pathway post-discharge from the hospital. More than 50% of the patients are readmitted to the hospital within the first 4 months post discharge.
More than 53% of the patients are on wrong medication or sub-optimal implementation of guideline recommended medication. Proper titration of heart failure medication as per the guideline recommended therapy can take up to 4 months and patients need to make frequent visits to the hospital / Heart Failure Policlinic for medication titration. Heart failure can occur at any age, but is most common in older people. Heart failure is a chronic condition that tends to get gradually worse over time. It cannot usually be cured, but the symptoms can often be controlled for many years.
Symptoms
Shortness of breath
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Nausea and lack of appetite
Fatigue and tiredness
Weight gain
Confusion, impared thinking
Current Care Pathway
Patients diagnosed with heart failure are treated to manage the underlying conditions. On symptom onset, patients are admitted in the hospital for approximately 10 days to address these symptoms. On discharge, patients are indicated to visit heart failure policlinics every two weeks to measure vital sign parameters and to adjust medication depending on their response. Suitable life style changes are recommended to manage the condition in the long-term.
Resources
Educational Websites:
The AHA offers a dedicated section on heart failure, providing information on symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options
Managed by the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology, this website provides educational materials, interactive tools, and practical tips for patients and caregivers.
Support Organizations:
Mended Hearts is a support network that connects heart failure patients, providing a platform for sharing experiences and coping strategies.