ANMCO POSITION PAPER: The role of cardiology in the management of the health needs in the post-Covid-19 era

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The emergence of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) led to global health system unpreparedness.
• The pandemic caused significant organizational challenges, including the conversion of hospital units for COVID-19 patient care.
• A notable decrease in hospital admissions for acute heart disease was observed during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline strategies for resuming cardiac outpatient activities post-pandemic.
• To propose short-term and medium-long-term goals for cardiac care recovery.
• To identify opportunities for permanent renovation in cardiology and territorial medicine.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the impact of the pandemic on healthcare organization and cardiac admissions.
• Review of the Italian National Phase 2 Plan for activity recovery.
• Proposal of strategies including GP collaboration, telephone follow-up, telemedicine, and structural reorganization of cardiology units.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in hospital admissions for acute heart disease during the pandemic.
• Need for a Phase 2 Health Plan to accompany the National Phase 2 Plan for activity resumption.
• Identification of necessary short-term goals: rescheduling, revising waiting lists, and adjusting booking timings.

Conclusions:

• Resuming cardiac activities requires a phased approach with clear short-term and long-term objectives.
• Integration of telemedicine and restructuring of cardiology units are crucial for adapting to new healthcare demands.
• The pandemic presents an opportunity for permanent innovation in cardiology and territorial medicine services.