Virtual heart service wins national prize

A remote care program designed to support heart patients while they recover at home has been recognised with a national award.

Ramsay Connect's Virtual Heart Failure Service was awarded the Clinical Practice Prize at the Australian Cardiovascular Health and Rehabilitation Association's 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting.

The service supports people with chronic heart failure while they are at home, using high-tech monitoring of vital signs including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.

The program also includes virtual consultations with specialist nurses and allied health professionals to help patients maintain their medication, diet, exercise and mental health, in partnership with their treating doctor.

A cardiovascular nurse remotely monitors patients to ensure any changes in patient condition are detected early.

Ramsay Connect CEO Ian Galvin said the award was wonderful recognition for the new service.

"Chronic heart failure accounts for hundreds of preventable hospitalisations in Australia, but with the right support, we can reduce the amount of time people spend in hospital," he said.

"We know patients want flexibility in their care, and they now have access to this program, backed by specialist technology, and a team of clinicians to provide the care they need at home."

Ramsay Connect is a joint venture between Australia's largest private hospitals operator, Ramsay Health Care, and Remedy Healthcare.

It provides multidisciplinary community, home-based or remotely-delivered care for patients transitioning home after a hospital stay or requiring additional support after treatment.

Read more: New nursing service helps patients at home

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