A partnership between the University Hospitals Foundation, Alberta Health and pharmaceutical company Novartis aims to optimize the prevention and treatment of heart disease across Alberta.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death and disease in Alberta, even though it is “mostly preventable,” according to a news release from the University Hospitals Foundation.

According to the release, “[Heartway]implements a proactive, community-based population health approach to the secondary prevention, treatment, and care of Albertans with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).” We aim to do so.”

“Currently, more than 400,000 people in the state live with ASCVD, but only a small percentage are receiving optimal care based on existing guidelines.”

Atherosclerosis refers to the hardening of the arteries, which can lead to strokes, heart attacks, and other disorders and diseases.

Secondary prevention aims at reducing the impact of vascular-related risk factors and treatments aimed at preventing future cardiovascular events.

“This includes reducing risk factors, providing targeted treatments, encouraging lifestyle changes, and maintaining the continued health of patients to prevent future cardiovascular events,” said Health Minister Adriana Lagrange. Stated.

Founded in 2022, Heartway will begin the first phase of its pilot program at four primary care clinics and pharmacies across the state. These will be held in Sherwood Park, Grande Prairie, Calgary and Lethbridge.

“Healthcare providers at pilot sites are working to introduce and refine a community-based, patient-centered approach that can be implemented across the state to improve and maintain health and communities, and to address crises requiring hospitalization. Dr. Jody Abbott, President and CEO of the University Hospital Foundation, said:

“More specifically, we want to impact: increasing access to community-based care, increasing equity of access for rural, cultural and marginalized populations, and The goal is to save lives.”