About the Enhanced HF Care study
The Enhanced Heart Failure (HF) Care study is a research project designed to improve the wellbeing of patients with heart failure. Recovering from heart failure can be an uncertain and stressful time. Research shows that a patient’s emotional wellbeing is vital in their recovery process.
However, many heart failure patients suffer from symptoms of depression but are unable to get the support they need for this, slowing down their recovery. Therefore, it is important to address both the emotional wellbeing support and the physical needs of patients with heart failure.
To achieve this, the Enhanced HF Care program was developed. The program aims to provide consistent information to patients and form partnerships with their cardiologists, nurses and GPs to help support their emotional needs. Those in the program will:
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Receive access to a new online well-being program called Enhanced HF Care
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Be provided with health education videos to support them following discharge
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Be screened for depression, anxiety and physical wellbeing through a short fortnightly survey, and advice given based on their responses (GPs may be notified if there is a cause for concern)
This study seeks to find out if this new program can help improve wellbeing of patients with heart failure after they have been discharged from hospital. The team will compare the depressive symptoms and healthcare utilisation of patients who participated in this program, versus patients who receive usual standard care. This will determine if the program was effective in assisting with their recovery.
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