The Swedish Web-system for enhancement and development of evidence-based care in heart disease evaluated according to recommended therapies (SWEDEHEART)

Abstract

Aims: The aims of the Swedish Web-system for Enhancement and Development of Evidence-based care in Heart disease Evaluated According to Recommended Therapies (SWEDEHEART) are to support the improvement of care and evidence-based development of therapy of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Interventions: To provide users with online interactive reports monitoring the processes of care and outcomes and allowing direct comparisons over time and with other hospitals. National, regional and county-based reports are publicly presented on a yearly basis.

Setting: Every hospital (n=74) in Sweden providing the relevant services participates. Launched in 2009 after merging four national registries on CAD.

Population: Consecutive acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients, and patients undergoing coronary angiography/angioplasty or heart surgery. Includes approximately 80, 000 new cases each year.

Startpoints: On admission in ACS patients, at coronary angiography in patients with stable CAD.

Baseline data: 106 variables for patients with ACS, another 75 variables regarding secondary prevention after 12-14 months, 150 variables for patients undergoing coronary angiography/angioplasty, 100 variables for patients undergoing heart surgery.

Data capture: Web-based registry with all data registered online directly by the caregiver.

Data quality: A monitor visits approximately 20 hospitals each year. In 2007, there was a 96% agreement.

Endpoints and linkages to other data: Merged with the National Cause of Death Register, including information about vital status of all Swedish citizens, the National Patient Registry, containing diagnoses at discharge for all hospital stays in Sweden and the National Registry of Drug prescriptions recording all drug prescriptions in Sweden.

Access to data: Available for research by application to the SWEDEHEART steering group.