Methamphetamine-Associated Heart Failure: A Patient-Centered Approach to Care

Methamphetamine-associated heart failure (MAHF) is increasing in prevalence, and treatment with guideline-directed medical therapy and methamphetamine cessation are challenged by psychosocial complexity.

We present a case of a 31-year-old female with acute decompensated MAHF after not engaging with medical care following her initial diagnosis of heart failure. Through a patient-centered approach to care including social work services, addiction medicine counseling, and guideline-directed medical therapy, the patient engaged with outpatient cardiology care resulting in recovery of left ventricular systolic function.

This case illustrates the complexities of caring for patients with MAHF and the need for novel, patient-centered models of heart failure care delivery. Specifically, multidisciplinary MAHF care teams have been shown to engage patients in outpatient cardiology at higher rates and decrease heart failure hospitalizations. These programs are founded on the principles of trauma-informed and patient-centered care which builds patient trust in the medical system and improves patient engagement in heart failure care.

A multidisciplinary, trauma-informed, and patient-centered approach to patients with MAHF leads to improved engagement in outpatient heart failure care and better long-term outcomes.