Advanced Heart Failure Care: When Should You Refer?

It can be hard to know when to refer a patient for advanced heart failure care. The truth is, it’s almost never too early – the sooner a patient gets specialized treatment, the better their odds of a good outcome. And if a patient is referred too late, it can severely limit their options.

Do your patients have any of the following symptoms? If so, they’re ready for advanced care.

• Their symptoms are getting worse despite maximum standard therapy.
• They’ve been admitted to the hospital for heart failure more than once in the past year.
• They’re suffering from new problems – like low blood pressure or worsening kidney function – that force them to cut back on therapy.
• They’re getting less mobile and less able to manage daily life. If a patient can’t walk a block, get their mail or navigate the grocery store without a scooter, it’s time for advanced care.

Advanced Care = Better Outcomes

Advanced heart failure programs offer big advantages. In fact, patients who get early, advanced care have fewer complications, shorter hospital stays and better odds of a good outcome.

These programs bring together experts who have extra training and years of experience managing patients with advanced heart failure. This includes physicians who are board-certified in advanced heart failure and transplant, backed by specially trained advanced clinical practitioners and nurses, imaging specialists, pharmacists, dietitians and social workers.

Advanced heart failure programs also offer state-of-the-art treatments, including the latest drugs and heart pumps like the left ventricular assist device (LVAD). These can save patients’ lives and help them get back to normal activities.

When a patient has end-stage heart failure, advanced programs can keep them as strong and healthy as possible while they wait for a heart transplant – and can manage their recovery to ensure the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute?

Sanger’s Advanced Heart Failure & Transplant Program delivers expert care – from early diagnosis to transplant and recovery:

Unparalleled Expertise: We started our Advanced Heart Failure & Transplant Program more than 30 years ago. Since performing Charlotte’s first heart transplant in 1986, we’ve constantly adopted new technologies and procedures to help patients lead longer, healthier lives.

Latest Devices: We offer the latest LVADs, including those only available in clinical trials. We also offer implantable devices and the total artificial heart. Thanks to our decades of experience, we can select the right device for your patient, safely implant it and successfully manage post-operative care.

Excellent Outcomes: Sanger’s outcomes for heart transplants are the best in the region – and among the best nationwide.

Heart Transplant Survival rates*

*Reporting Period for Adult & Pediatric Patients: 7/1/2011 - 12/31/2013