The diagnosis of congestive heart failure, hypertension or hyperlipidemia can be unsettling and leave patients asking many questions such as: "What caused this? Can I still participate in the same activities? Should I change my diet?"
These are chronic illness that can be treated with lifestyle changes and medication. The Memorial Health System Cardiovascular Case Management Program is specifically designed by nurses with advanced training in cardiac care to provide education, answer questions and monitor conditions.
Studies show that people with your type of medical problems, who are closely monitored by health care professionals and are knowledgeable about their illness, spend less time in the hospital and more time feeling well.
The goals of the cardiovascular case management program are to:
- Improve the quality of life
- Increase understanding of heart problems
- Intervene promptly for heart-related concerns to prevent emergency department visits and hospital stays
In the cardiovascular case management program staff will:
- Talk with patients about the cause of their medical problems and what can be done.
- Review the medications patients are taking, explain why each one is needed and show how to fit a medication routine into daily activities. We also will discuss ways to obtain these medications if there is a financial concern.
- Teach patients what they can do to prevent the worsening of conditions and the importance of self monitoring.
- Offer same day appointments if needed for heart related concerns. Also, staff are available by phone twenty-four hours a day.
- Patients will continue to have regular office visits with their doctor.
Questions and Answers:
1. Why does my doctor want me to go to the Cardiovascular Case Management Program?
The doctor believes you will benefit from the close monitoring and extensive education received from the program. Case management adds to the care you already receive from your doctor.
2. What will happen during a visit?
The nurse will weigh you, take your blood pressure and listen to your heart and lungs. She or he will talk to you about your condition and review your medications. You are encouraged to discuss any concerns you may have. Blood work or other diagnostic tests may be performed at this time.
3. What is the difference between the program and a doctor’s office visit?
Frequently, patients with new medical problems or those with complicating conditions require special attention. This program is designed to help you through your illness and improve your quality of life by working with you to:
- Know when to seek help early to prevent hospitalization.
- Identify which drugs work best for you.
- Measure the effectiveness of various treatments.
- Fit these strategies into your lifestyle.
4. What does the Cardiovascular Case Management Program cost?
Fees vary by procedure adn your insurance will be billed for services rendered.
Other Cardiovascular Clinics:
All of the following clinics establish an acute treatment program and follow patients frequently in order to monitor their therapy. Medication dosing is based on laboratory results as needed. Nurse practitioners assess, monitor and treat these patients until they ar etransferred to the care of their doctor. These programs have been proven to enable patients to remain at home and avoid hospitalization.
- Hypertension (High blood pressure)
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
- Hyperlipidemia (High fat levels in the blood)
Memorial Health System | Memorial Hospital for Children | Foundation | PhysicianLink 