Initial results of the heart failure center implementation at a level 3 cardiology facility

Aim . To study the results of the heart failure center (HFC) implementation at a level 3 cardiology facility and to assess the rehospitalization risks and the economic impact of HFCs in real-world clinical practice. M aterial and methods . The study included 414 patients undergoing inpatient treatment at a level 3 facility. The primary inclusion criterion was the echocardiographic detection of reduced and mildly reduced ejection fraction. Patients were divided into two following groups: group 1 (n=154) — patients who continued outpatient follow-up in the HF office after discharge; group 2 (n=222) — those who were not followed in the HF office. An analysis of patient readmissions was conducted using data from a unified digital platform. Statistical data processing was performed using Excel and Biostat, with Student’s t-test and chi-square tests. The cost-effectiveness of the HF office was calculated. R esults. A HF office was established at a level 3 facility, comprising inpatient and outpatient follow-up phases using a seamless model. In both groups, there were more men than women. Patients were comparable in age, clinical status, and comorbidities. The main causes of HF in the study groups were coronary artery disease, including prior myocardial infarction, and atrial fibrillation. Upon discharge from the hospital, all patients were recommended quadruple therapy for HF. Patients in the first group visited the HF office 362 times over the course of a year. An analysis of readmissions was conducted over a one-year follow-up period after discharge. The proportion of patients readmitted to the hospital within a year of discharge was significantly higher in group 2 (37,5%) than in group 1 (13,6%) (odds ratio 3,782; 95% confidence interval 2,216-6,454; p