[Research set-up concerning the effectiveness of heart failure clinics in the Netherlands]

Abstract

In the Netherlands, the number of patients with heart failure is increasing. Several heart failure management programs have been initiated to reduce the number of readmissions and to improve the quality of care for these patients. However, conclusive data have yet to be provided. In the 'Coordinating study evaluating outcomes of advising and counselling in heart failure', started in 16 Dutch hospitals, 1050 heart failure patients have been randomised into 3 arms: (a) care as usual, (b) care as usual + basic education and support, and (c) care as usual + intensive education and support. Patients will be recruited in 18 months with an 18 month follow-up. This study has three outcomes, namely, time to first major event (heart failure hospitalizations and death), quality of life, and costs.