People diagnosed with heart failure can be remotely monitored
using technology which aims to help keep them out of hospital,
NICE has said.
Two algorithm-based technologies – HeartLogic and TriageHF –
which work alongside cardiac implantable electronic devices
(CIEDs) like pacemakers, have been recommended by NICE in final
diagnostic guidance.
The technologies can accurately detect the signs of worsening
heart failure by monitoring parameters such as an individual's
general activity, heart rate variability and heart sounds.
The data collected from the device can be sent in real-time, or
at a designated time, to hospital staff who are able to provide
care over the phone and to determine whether they need to attend
hospital.
Studies have showed using the technologies reduced all-cause
hospitalisations by 58%[i] for TriageHF and for
HeartLogic 72%[ii] of heart failure
hospitalisations.
There were around 90,000 hospitalisations in
England for heart failure in 2019/20, making it one of the
leading causes of avoidable hospitalisations.
Heart failure happens when the left side of the heart doesn't
fill properly with blood during the diastolic (filling) phase.
This means the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the
body's needs.
People are fitted with CIEDs such as pacemakers, implantable
cardioverter defibrillators, and cardiac resynchronisation
therapy devices to manage the condition and these technologies
can work alongside HeartLogic and TriageHF.
It is estimated 25,000 people in England have a cardiac device
that is compatible with heart algorithm technology. Some NHS
Trusts in England are already using the technology.
Dr Anastasia Chalkidou, programme director of NICE's
HealthTech directorate, said: “Being able to remotely
monitor someone with heart failure and detecting whether their
symptoms are worsening in real time could be the difference
between life or death.
“There are thousands of people diagnosed with heart failure each
year and enabling them to live a healthy life, without having to
go into hospital, is a double win for them and the NHS.
“At NICE our aim is to get the best care to people, fast,
ensuring value for money for the taxpayer. The NHS is under
considerable pressure and using technology, such as these
devices, could prevent costly hospital admissions which would be
avoidable if an early intervention is made.”
Access to HeartLogic has a one-off cost per person, but discounts
may be offered based on purchase volume.
Access to TriageHF, and its associated data transmission CareLink
service, has a yearly cost per person.
According to the British Heart Foundation,
around 670,000 people in England have been diagnosed with heart
failure by their GP.
Heart failure mainly affects people over the age of 65, with an
average age at diagnosis of 77.
ENDS
About the guidance
- The guidance is available at https://nice.org.uk/dg61
- NICE diagnostic guidance applies in England.
References
[i]
Ahmed et al. (2024)
[ii]
Treskes et al. (2021)
