Kudos to Erin Baumgart and Roland Trenouth ~ true pioneers. They piloted the First Heart Failure Group Visit across organizations (CSH and NCC) and did a wonderful job - the patients loved it and want to come back again!
Carol Hanson, RN at CSH was very helpful in explaining the role of the nurse, when to call and what information would be most helpful.
Here is an overview of our pilot group visit :
1. Attendees: PCP, Cardiologist, CSH Staff RN , Process Facilitator.
2. 7 patients were pre-selected that had CHF as a diagnosis - 6 patients showed up and participated in our group visit.
3. Pre-Visit: 1-1:15 pm Patients were greeted and given Patient Information Packets.
4. The actual visit lasted 1:15-2:45 pm ( 1 1/2 hours) .
5. The HF Group Visit Agenda as it evolved:
1:15 -1:30 pm Explanation of Group Visits and Introductions
1:30-1:40 pm P2 HIPAA Form and Group Visit Confidentiality Forms.
1:35-1:55 pm Explanation of CHF by Dr. Trenouth followed by Question/ Answer period.
1:55-2:00 pm Explanation of what a patient can do to help themselves on a daily basis.
2:00-2:10 pm Vital Signs taken and Recorded (Pulse and Blood Pressure).
2:10-2:20 pm HF Medications Discussed.
2:20-2:35 pm Evaluation of Group Visit.
2:35-2:45 pm Individual Concerns Addressed.
6. Suggestions / Feedback from patients:
Do Not Tell Patients over the phone that they have CHF - need to have a face to face encounter with a patient in person.
CHF is a shocking diagnosis for a patient - they need to be able to ask questions and receive patient education handouts with information.
Patients felt strongly that it was the Clinicians responsibility to educate and inform the patient regarding their condition.
Input regarding this group visit today patients stated :
" I am impressed with all of the effort and degree of care that was put into this."
" I thought this was wonderful, over time we would know so much more. It gives us an opportunity for thoughts and questions".
" I thought it was good, would like to see it continue. There were a lot of helpful things shared".
" I got a real good explanation of what Heart Failure is".
" I thought it was interesting but not too much new information that I didn't already know".
7. Future Group Visits could expand upon Diet, Medications, Drug Interactions, latest research and treatment options.
It was a wonderful alternative to providing care in a new way . Your questions and comments are welcome.
