Caring for the Community: Help for the Heart Program Targets Persons Diagnosed with Heart Failure

Heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped working. Rather it means that the heart’s pumping power is weaker than normal. Heart failure affects about 5 million Americans. Roughly 550,000 people are diagnosed with heart failure each year. It is the leading cause of hospitalization in people over the age of 65.

Caring for persons with heart failure is a collaborative effort at Houston Healthcare. The program includes an educational component coordinated by the Community Education Department along with staff from Nursing and Pharmacy. In order to have an optimal program, there is also an exercise component provided by Health Connections Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Staff members from Nursing, Care Management, as well as our Physicians all refer into this worthwhile program. The Marketing Department is also assisting by developing brochures and other informational materials. This collaboration between departments has led to an excellent, free program for our community.

Heart failure requires a health care team, but it also requires active participation from the person with heart failure as well as their caregivers. While there is no cure for heart failure there are a number of methods to improve this condition and assist with the common complaints of persons challenged with controlling the symptoms. Participants in the Help for the Heart Program report improved management of their symptoms, better understanding of their meal plan and medications. Some participants also report less hospitalizations and medical cost along with improved stamina and ability to be more physically active. A physician referral is required for admittance to the program. Anyone with a diagnosis of heart failure, as well as the caregiver of a person with heart failure, are encouraged to attend.

For more information on these programs offered by Houston Healthcare, contact the following:

Heart Failure Education Classes provided by EduCare Community Education, call 923-9771.

Heart Failure Exercise Program provided by Health Connections, call 322-5143.

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