Heart failure in 2015: let’s get organised

Subsequently, a working group was created consisting of cardiologists, heart failure nurses and primary healthcare workers that developed four protocols aiming to streamline patient flow from primary to speciality care and vice-versa. ACE angiotensin-converting enzyme, (NT-pro) BNP (N-terminal pro) brain natriuretic peptide, BP blood pressure, CMR cardiac magnetic resonance, CRT cardiac resynchronisation therapy, ECG electrocardiography, HF heart failure, GP general practitioner, ICD implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, LV left ventricular, LVAD left ventricular assist device, LVF left ventricular function, MRA mineral receptor antagonist, TOE transoesophageal echocardiogram, 6MWT 6-min walk test Co-operation between primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare providers may optimise heart failure care. The current framework complies with the recent recommendations of the World Heart Failure Alliance since it provides a system that delivers timely access to diagnostic services and treatment of heart failure, as well as a seamless transition to long-term care [2].