Congestive heart failure: a continuum of care

Congestive heart failure is the nation's most rapidly growing category of cardiovascular disorders. As more and more people are surviving cardiac insults, health care providers are called upon to improve the health status of this population. The article describes a program at Advocate Health Care that follows the patient beyond the four walls of the hospital after discharge and into the most appropriate care environment for him or her. The evolution of a clinical quality improvement project aimed at partnering with patients in the care of this chronic illness is discussed.