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CHAMP® has served as a unique model of health intervention in the greater Sacramento region for the past 13 years, providing support and assistance for patients who suffer from heart failure. It has been instituted at all six of the Sacramento Service Area hospitals. The program responds to a priority health issue identified in the 2010 CNA that indicates heart failure is the second leading cause of hospitalization for residents living in Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer and Yolo counties (106 zip codes). Heart failure is the fifth highest reason for emergency department visits, and the number one cause of death.
CHAMP® was developed by the Mercy Heart & Vascular Institute at Mercy General Hospital, which sponsors and conducts the program for our hospitals. The program serves as a vital link for patients to the medical world once they leave the hospital. It enables patients to manage their disease and maintain a high quality of life, and reduces the risk of being readmitted to the hospital. The CHAMP® team consists of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and other healthcare professionals who interact with patients to provide:
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Regular phone interaction to assess well-being, and monitor symptoms or complications
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Recommendations on diet changes, medicine modifications, or the need for physician visits
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Appropriate diuretic, potassium, beta blocker and ACEI/ARB medication adjustments
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Educational classes and materials to help patients understand and control their disease
CHAMP® continues to expand its scope of services to capture a greater percentage of the underserved population, partners with community organizations and low-income housing providers to offer free cholesterol, blood pressure and other health screenings, as well as educational classes and programs. Forms and materials have been translated into Spanish, Vietnamese and Hmong. Program outcomes demonstrate that CHAMP® is a best practice that is enabling heart failure patients to live healthier and more productive lives. Annual reductions in hospital readmissions by the hundreds of patients participating in the program range are 80% or higher.
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