Question 1

What is heart failure?

Accepted Answer

Heart failure is a condition where the heart doesn't pump blood as effectively as it should, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue and swelling.

Question 2

How can OhioHealth help manage my heart failure?

Accepted Answer

OhioHealth offers comprehensive heart failure management, including detailed evaluations, personalized care plans, advanced treatments like left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) and ongoing monitoring.

Question 3

What treatments are available for heart failure at OhioHealth?

Accepted Answer

We provide a range of treatments, including medication management, remote monitoring, cardiac device therapy including carotid baroreflex stimulation, cardiac contractility modulation, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), LVAD implantation and cardiac rehabilitation.

Question 4

What is a ventricular assist device (VAD)?

Accepted Answer

A ventricular assist device (VAD) is a mechanical pump that supports heart function and blood flow in patients with heart failure. It helps the heart pump blood from the left ventricle to the rest of the body and vital organs.

Question 5

Who is eligible for a left ventricular assist device (LVAD)?

Accepted Answer

Patients with advanced heart failure who are waiting for a heart transplant or those who are not eligible for a transplant but have weakened hearts may be considered for an LVAD.

Question 6

What are the benefits of an LVAD?

Accepted Answer

An LVAD can improve the quality of life and prolong survival for heart failure patients. It acts as a "bridge to transplant" or as a long-term therapy for those not eligible for a transplant.

Question 7

What is cardiac rehabilitation?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac rehabilitation is a personalized program designed to improve your heart health through exercise, education and support, helping you manage heart failure and enhance your quality of life.

Question 8

Do I need a referral to access heart failure services at OhioHealth?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your physician needs to refer you to our heart failure services. Once referred, one of our coordinators will contact you to schedule your first visit.

Question 9

Can I receive heart failure care close to home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, OhioHealth has the largest network of heart failure clinics in central Ohio, allowing you to receive expert care within your community.

Question 10

Who will be managing my heart failure care?

Accepted Answer

Each of our clinics is directed by a board-certified cardiologist specializing in heart failure, supported by nurse practitioners with specialized training.

Question 11

How can I contact the Advanced Heart Failure Clinic?

Accepted Answer

You can contact the Advanced Heart Failure Clinic at OhioHealth by calling (614) 566-3175. Our team is ready to help manage your heart failure and provide the support you need.

Question 12

How can OhioHealth help me manage my heart failure and avoid hospital admissions?

Accepted Answer

Our team educates patients on managing their condition to minimize symptoms and avoid hospital admissions. We connect patients with clinical trials offering new hope and provide access to social services to overcome barriers to care.

Heart Failure Management

You can live well with heart failure

Our heart failure management services

Advanced Heart Failure Clinic at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital

Find a heart failure expert

Our community heart failure clinics

About heart health recovery

Exceptional heart & vascular services at OhioHealth

Frequently asked questions