A study from Griffith University shows that for heart patients, home-care is an effective cost-efficient form of treatment. Management of heart disease after leaving the hospital is important for long-term success and recovery.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. Home-care for individuals with congestive heart failure includes reminders to take medications, education to recognize signs of early heart problems, creating a heart-healthy diet and meal plan and assisting with daily activities.
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Two-hundred and eighty patients with congestive heart failure were chosen from three different hospitals and received multidisciplinary disease management.
The goal of the study was to uncover a way to minimize readmissions into hospital as well as lower mortality. With this in mind, researchers explored the idea of home-based care for those who received treatment for congestive heart failure. They compared the effectiveness of home-based care administered by specialized nurses and healthcare professionals with clinic-based care by a specialist in a hospital.
Healthcare cost and quality of life were examined as well.
Lead author Dr. Shoko Maru said, “A range of methodologies we used have converged on a common conclusion: HBI is likely to be cost-effective if decision makers are willing to pay up to $50,000 per quality-adjusted life year. The net benefit of HBI appeared to be pronounced among the patients with a low level of self-care confidence or with fewer co-existing diseases.”
With populations living longer that means more demand for the healthcare system. Therefore, it is important that we uncover cost-effective means that still provide ample care without breaking the bank.
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Maru added, “Our findings inform the long-term cost-effectiveness of intervention intended for a lifelong disease such as CHF.”
The findings were published in the International Journal of Cardiology.
Sources:
http://www.interimhealthcare.com/services/home-care/information/congestive-heart-failure
https://app.secure.griffith.edu.au/news/2015/08/20/home-based-treatment-is-cost-effective-alternative-for-heart-failure-patients/
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
