New Model of Care in Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) is characterized by high mortality, poor quality of life and frequent hospitalizations. The effectiveness of out-patient care for HF patients is unsatisfactory. Therefore the solutions that enable effective monitoring and assessment of HF patients\' clinical status become priority in treatment strategy. The applicant proposes to develop a model of care for HF patients based on modern non-invasive diagnostic tools and telemedicine. Clinical evaluation will be based on i.e. impedance cardiography, a simple non-invasive method of hemodynamic monitoring, including assessment of heart rate, blood pressure, left ventricular stroke volume, chest and total fluid status. The telemedicine system will enable rapid, appropriate to the patient\'s clinical status, therapeutic decision undertaken remotely by specialist. Implementation of the proposed model of care will contribute to a significant improvement in prognosis of HF patients (through i.e. improved access to specialist consultation, the early diagnosis of the deterioration of HF and the optimization of treatment). The significant economic, social and scientific benefits related to the project are also expected.