Heart failure is the fastest growing heart problem in the United States. About five million Americans
suffer from the disease. It is the No. 1 reason people ages 65 and older stay at the hospital.

Heart Failure Management Program

You cannot cure heart failure, but you can control it. The Heart Failure Management Program at the CentraCare Heart & Vascular Center can help you and your family manage your heart failure and improve your quality of life.

Our program aims to:

• educate and support you and your family
• help you manage your heart failure symptoms
• manage your risk factors, such as cholesterol, blood pressure and diet
• assist you in managing medicines
• reduce your visits to the emergency department
• prevent your need for hospital stays
• increase your activity level

Care Team

At the Heart Failure Management Program, we specialize in heart failure. Our team of specialists
will diagnose, treat and follow-up on your care. The team is made up of a cardiologist and registered nurses with special training in heart failure management. As needed, you will have access to other consulting specialists:

• electrophysiologists (heart rhythm specialists)
• cardiac surgeons
• exercise physiologists
• dietitians
• sleep disorder specialists
• pharmacist
• holistic services specialist Office Visits

After your initial visit, we will see you every three months. We will be happy to work with you to provide more visits or telephone support as needed.

Research

The Heart Failure Management Program uses the latest research to manage heart failure. As a member of the Heart Failure Consortium in Minnesota, we actively take part in research studies with many other hospitals. If you tried standard therapies without success, our research program allows you to try experimental therapies unavailable elsewhere.

Referrals

To begin the Heart Failure Management Program, we will need a referral from your doctor. We will
provide your doctor with periodic updates on your progress. Most insurance companies cover our
program. If in doubt, call us or your insurance company. For more information about how we can help you manage your heart failure, please call (320) 656-7020 or (800) 448-3455.