Social determinants of health and rates of implantation for patients considering destination therapy left ventricular assist device

Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a treatment option available to select patients with advanced heart failure.1 However, there are important social determinants of health (SDOH) that can play a role in determining patients ’ outcomes following device placement. Patients must typically have access to a specialized LVAD center, have health insurance to cover the cost of LVAD implantation, and have adequate financial resources to manage maintenance care and potential complications. LVAD programs also require patients h ave the support of a dedicated caregiver after the LVAD surgery.

Source: Journal of Cardiac Failure - December 17, 2020 Category: Cardiology Authors: Kelsey Flint, Erin L. Chaussee, Kamal Henderson, Khadijah Breathett, Prateeti Khazanie, Jocelyn S. Thompson, Colleen K. McIlvennan, Shane J. LaRue, Daniel D. Matlock, Larry A. Allen Source Type: research