Hospital sets up club for heart patients

A club offering medical and psychological support for patients suffering heart failure was set up by Shanghai Yodak Cardio-Thoracic Hospital on Monday.

Many patients with heart failure, a complication in the late stage of cardiovascular diseases, have to be hospitalized repeatedly. The economic and mental pressure that results can lead to anxiety and depression, seriously affecting their treatment and quality of life.

About 30 to 40 percent of patients with chronic heart failure can be hospitalized three to six months after being discharged, doctors said.

Studies found the incidence of depression among patients with chronic heart failure is four to five times higher than patients with other heart diseases.

The club will provide support, enhance communication between doctors and patients and between patients themselves.

“The treatment for heart failure is a long process. So the club will offer comprehensive management and support in treatment, diet, sports and psychology,” said Wang Gaifei, president of Shanghai Yodak. “Proper patient management can reduce mortality and the frequency of hospital visits and improve patients’ quality of life.”

The club’s services are available both online and offline. Patients who are discharged can also receive help with rehabilitation and health care, the hospital said.