2023 position statement on improving management for patients with heart failure in Aotearoa New Zealand

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Equity

Background:

• Heart failure impacts 1-3% of the population, presenting a significant public health challenge with high hospitalization and mortality rates.
• Health inequities in heart failure incidence have increased in Aotearoa New Zealand over the past 13 years, disproportionately affecting Māori and Pasifika populations.
• Contemporary heart failure management guidelines offer clear guidance, yet equitable access to optimal care remains a concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ensure equitable access to optimal healthcare delivery and evidence-based pharmacotherapy for contemporary heart failure management in Aotearoa New Zealand.
• To address critical areas including access to pharmacotherapy, timely initiation and titration of treatments, and workforce capacity for heart failure care.

Main Methods:

• This position statement synthesizes current regional and international heart failure guidelines.
• It focuses on three key areas: access to evidence-based pharmacotherapy, early initiation and titration of treatments, and workforce requirements.
• The approach emphasizes implementation of evidence-based healthcare strategies.

Main Results:

• The statement identifies key areas for improving heart failure care delivery.
• It highlights the need for equitable access to guideline-directed medical therapy.
• It stresses the importance of timely treatment initiation and titration, supported by adequate workforce capacity.

Conclusions:

• Implementing evidence-based healthcare strategies is crucial for improving heart failure patient outcomes in Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Addressing health inequities requires focused action on pharmacotherapy access, treatment timeliness, and healthcare workforce development.
• Ensuring optimal healthcare delivery will provide all heart failure patients the opportunity for substantial health improvements.