Acute myocardial infarction mortality in VA versus non-VA settings

Abstract

Mortality associated with acute myocardial infarction has declined steadily over the past 25 years. This study was conducted to compare in-hospital mortality among men treated in VA versus non-VA settings. Results supported declines in mortality since 1980 to an overall rate of 11%, as reported in published literature and found in the VA data base. Mortality among men treated in VA settings mirrored rates reported for non-VA settings, both overall and by age groups. Findings were shared with VA Medical Centers for use in identifying opportunities to improve clinical practice.