Recommendations for the care of patients with cardiovascular disease in health emergency situations: a call to action

COVID-19 has had a negative impact on the health care of patients with cardiovascular disease and patients at high risk of cardiovascular disease. The restrictions affecting access to the health care system have conditioned the care received, resulting in poorer control and a higher risk of events. Taking action to improve the care provided during health emergencies is mandatory. It is important to promote the development of telemedicine and patient empowerment by fostering health literacy and a higher degree of self-care. In addition, primary care and coordination between health care levels should be improved. Moreover, the simplification and optimization of treatment, for example, using the cardiovascular polypill, have led to an improvement in adherence, better control of vascular risk factors, and a reduced risk of events. The present document provides specific recommendations for improving the care provided to patients under a health emergency.

Automated summary

COVID-19 has negatively impacted the healthcare of cardiovascular disease patients and those at high risk. Access restrictions have led to poorer control and increased risk. Improving care during health emergencies is mandatory, including promoting telemedicine, patient empowerment, and better primary care coordination. Simplification and optimization of treatment, such as using cardiovascular polypills, have shown improved adherence and risk reduction. The document provides specific recommendations for improving care during health emergencies.