Erlanger Health System has earned national recognition by the American Heart Association for its active participation in the Get With The Guidelines cardiac management program.
Erlanger was awarded bronze level status for best practice compliance in coronary artery disease care. The award acknowledges Erlanger's commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of cardiac care that effectively improves the treatment of patients hospitalized with coronary artery disease and heart failure.
"At Erlanger we are committed to providing the best evidence-based care for our heart patients," said Wanda Perry, Erlanger cardiac and medical services administrator. "We are extremely proud of this accomplishment and of all the individuals who work on a daily basis to ensure that we comply with the American Heart Association's guidelines."
The AHA launched the Get With The Guidelines program in 2001 to improve the quality of care for patients hospitalized with cardiovascular disease. Since that time, the program has produced a number of key findings and valuable lessons for measuring and improving cardiovascular care.
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in both men and women in the Unites States. The implementation of national heart failure guidelines is a critical step in preventing recurrent hospitalizations and prolonging the lives of heart failure patients. Projections have shown that the implementation of cardiovascular disease secondary prevention guidelines nationwide could result in saving more than 80,000 lives each year.
By participating in the Get With The Guidelines program, Erlanger ensures that the care they provide to coronary artery disease, stroke and heart failure patients is aligned with the latest scientific guidelines and is exceeding national standards.