Increased adherence to cardiac standards of care during participation in cardiac disease management programs

Carter Coberley1, Greg Morrow, Matthew McGinnis

  • 1Healthways, Inc., Nashville, Tennessee 37215, USA.

Insights

Cardiac disease management programs significantly improve patient adherence to essential heart medications and cholesterol management. These programs enhance cardiovascular care, likely reducing mortality risk and improving quality of life for patients with heart conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Health Services Research
  • Clinical Quality Improvement

Background:

  • Adherence to cardiovascular disease standards of care is crucial for reducing mortality and morbidity in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and heart failure (HF).
  • Effective disease management (DM) programs are essential for ensuring patients receive evidence-based treatments for cardiovascular conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness of cardiac disease management (DM) programs in improving patient adherence to cardiovascular medications.
  • To assess the impact of DM programs on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) testing rates, LDL control, and statin use.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective analysis of 20,202 members with CHD and/or HF was conducted, comparing data from 12 months prior to program enrollment with the first 12 months of participation.
  • Adherence to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers and beta-blockers was assessed.
  • LDL testing rates, LDL control (<100 mg/dL), and statin use were measured and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Significant improvements in adherence to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers and beta-blockers were observed (P < 0.0001).
  • Cardiac DM programs led to significant increases in LDL testing rates and statin use (P < 0.0001).
  • A 36% relative increase in achieving LDL control and a 40% relative increase in statin use were noted within the first year of program participation.

Conclusions:

  • Participation in cardiac DM programs effectively enhances patient adherence to prescribed cardiovascular medications and adherence to care guidelines.
  • Improvements in medication adherence and LDL management are associated with better cardiovascular care, potentially leading to improved quality of life and reduced mortality risk.

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