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Heart Failure Follow-Up Clinic

To Reduce the Likelihood of Readmission

Heart Failure Follow-Up Clinic at Highland Hospital

The Heart Failure Follow-Up Clinic at Highland Hospital is designed for patients who have been recently discharged from the hospital with a diagnosis of heart failure. Our goal is to help speed recovery and reduce the risk of readmission.

 

In the US, one in five patients who are hospitalized with a history of heart failure, return to the hospital within a week after discharge. A visit to a cardiologist soon after discharge can prevent a return trip to the emergency department.

First Appointment Within 72 Hours After Discharge

All patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of heart failure, and all those identified as being at risk, are encouraged to schedule an appointment at the Clinic within 72 hours after discharge.

The appointment is an opportunity to address questions and concerns, review and/or adjust medications, discuss dietary changes, and develop an individualized treatment plan. Results of the visit are communicated with all appropriate physicians — primary care and specialists — and in-home care providers. Many patients with heart failure are referred to the Visiting Nurse Service Telehealth Program for in-home monitoring.

What to Bring

Please bring a list of your medications and your insurance card. If you do not have a current list of your medications, please bring the bottles. Our cardiologists will have access to all information about your recent hospital stay.

If Symptoms Change Before the Appointment

Call Highland Cardiology at (585) 341-6780 and ask for the Heart Failure Nurse. Symptoms of heart failure include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling of the ankles and feet
  • Sudden onset of rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Fatigue, weakness and lack of appetite
  • Sudden onset chest pain