First Global Comprehensive Heart Failure Center Certification Outside the US

Strategic Insights -

National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio ChÈívez, a teaching hospital and research center in Mexico City, has become the first organization outside of the United States to meet the American Heart Association's criteria for Comprehensive Heart Failure Center Certification, marking a significant milestone in global efforts to create a system of healthcare that saves more lives. This achievement reflects the shared commitment to high-quality care for heart failure patients worldwide. Approximately 750,000 people in Mexico are living with heart failure, a condition that prevents the body from getting enough oxygen-rich blood. While there is no cure for heart failure, many people with this condition can live full, enjoyable lives with the right treatment. The hospital's certification validates the dedication of its clinicians and staff to advancing heart failure care for patients and communities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio ChÈívez is the first organization outside the US to meet the American Heart Association's criteria for Comprehensive Heart Failure Center Certification.
  • The certification reflects a shared commitment to high-quality care for heart failure patients worldwide and validates the dedication of clinicians and staff to advancing heart failure care.
  • Approximately 750,000 people in Mexico are living with heart failure, which prevents the body from getting enough oxygen-rich blood.
  • The American Heart Association launched the hospital-based, continuous quality improvement program in 13 countries earlier this year, bringing the gold standard in HF care to communities outside the US for the first time.
  • Comprehensive Heart Failure Centers must document and demonstrate how their organization has committed to providing quality care for heart failure patients.
  • The Institute met or exceeded all required standards, including advanced imaging and treatment capabilities, 24/7 availability of specialized treatments, participation in research, and staff and physicians with unique education and competencies to care for complex heart failure patients.
  • The American Heart Association is committed to ensuring equitable health in all communities and has advocated for the public's health for over a century, supporting more than 35 million volunteers globally.

Statistics:

  • 750,000 people in Mexico are living with heart failure.
  • The American Heart Association launched the hospital-based, continuous quality improvement program in 13 countries earlier this year.
  • Comprehensive Heart Failure Centers must meet or exceed 24 required standards, including advanced imaging and treatment capabilities, 24/7 availability of specialized treatments, participation in research, and staff and physicians with unique education and competencies.

Sources:

  • American Heart Association, "Elevating global heart failure care with new certification," news release, October 16, 2023
  • American Heart Association, "Guiding heart failure teams to optimal patient care," article, September 13, 2023
  • Abstract 12163: Initiation of Guideline Directed Medical Therapy at Hospital Discharge Improves Outcomes in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction | Circulation, 2023
  • Abstract 17028: Characteristics and Short-Term Outcome of Patients in the Program "Get With the Guidelines" - One Vietnamese Center Registry | Circulation, 2023
  • Cobos-Martinez N, Rodriguez-Esquivel CY. Level of self-care of patients from the clinic specialized in herat failure at the Naval Hospital of Specialties of Veracruz. International Journal of Health Science, 2023.