Percent of Heart Failure Patients Given ACE Inhibitor or ARB for Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction (LVSD)
Why Is This Important?
Patients who have heart failure symptoms or decreased heart function after a heart attack can benefit from early treatment with ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors and ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers). They work by limiting the effects of a hormone that narrows blood vessels, and may thus lower blood pressure and reduce the work the heart has to perform. Since the ways in which these two kinds of drugs work are different, the doctor will decide which drug is most appropriate for each individual.
About This Graph
Eligible patients with decreased heart function should get a prescription for ACE inhibitors or ARB before leaving the hospital. The graph below indicates how often eligible UMass Memorial Medical Center patients received an ACE inhibitor or ARB compared with hospitals in Massachusetts and in the United States. Higher percentages indicate better care. (Jan 2011 - Dec 2011.)
How Are We Doing?
Our goal is to reach 100 percent in this measure for all patients at all times. To that end, we continue to monitor our care to identify any incidences where we did not meet the standard. Every incidence when we do not meet the standard is reviewed with a multidisciplinary team in order to identify barriers to care and implement processes to help us improve. Results are updated quarterly in order to provide the most up-to-date information.