Reconnect, Recharge and Reimagine at the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.24

March 12, 2024

Announcements

Connect with colleagues, learn about the latest section activities, and discover ways to get involved at the CV Team Section Meeting & Reception. Enjoy an evening of networking, inspiration and staying informed on advancements in cardiovascular care. The event will take place on Saturday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. ET at Omni Atlanta at Centennial Park, International Ballroom D. Reserve your spot today.

Get the Knowledge You Need to Transform CV Care at ACC.24

February 8, 2024

Upcoming Event

Join your colleagues in Atlanta, April 6-8, for ACC.24 for a dynamic and engaging learning environment for the Cardiovascular Team to get up to speed on the latest cutting-edge science, improve simulation skills, expand professional networks, and understand how new information can immediately be implemented into clinical practice. Whether you're interested in newly released research, pharmaceutical management of cardiovascular disease states, troubleshooting procedural complications, or learning more about the business side of cardiology and program development, all members of the cardiovascular team will find value in attending ACC.24. Register by March 6 to SAVE and learn more about all ACC.24 has to offer!

New Vaccination Clinician Tools Now Available

February 5, 2024

CardioSmart Patient Centered Highlights

With the flu season continuing into May, it's important to remind patients there is still time to get vaccinated. Getting the necessary immunizations to protect against flu and COVID-19 is particularly important for adults with chronic conditions like heart disease. Research shows that patients are more likely to get a vaccine if their health care team recommends it. To facilitate the conversation, ACC's CardioSmart team has created a Vaccination Discussion Guide leveraging the cardiovascular care team's role in getting timely immunization. A vaccine referral form and a clinician handout are also available to help increase vaccination rates for patients with heart disease. Get more tools on this topic here.

Applications Now Open For May CCKE For NPs/PAs

February 5, 2024

Educational Opportunities

Advance your professional accomplishments, demonstrate your clinical knowledge and commitment to cardiovascular excellence by taking and passing ACC's Certified Cardiovascular Knowledge Examination (CCKE) for NPs/PAs practicing in the U.S. Applications are now open for the exam taking place May 2-5. The CCKE for NPs/PAs consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering the entire field of cardiovascular disease. There is no need to travel; the exam may be taken at home or at the office. Learn more and apply today!

Last Call For Sonography Training Program Applications; Due March 1

February 2, 2024

Educational Opportunities

Last call to apply to the MedAxiom Cardiac and Vascular Sonography Training Program. MedAxiom has partnered with a top-notch university to deliver this online certificate program designed specifically to equip future sonographers with the tools and techniques for a successful ultrasound career. Students will receive world-class education from an accredited sonography program that provides didactic and clinical experience. The program also provides eligibility to sit for sonography boards to obtain their credentials. Applications are due by March 1. Learn more.

MedAxiom's 2023 CV APP Compensation and Utilization Report Supports Team-Based Care Model

February 2, 2024

Announcements

MedAxiom's fourth annual Cardiovascular Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Compensation and Utilization Report includes data from 106 organizations and provides insights into best practices in APPs' leadership, production and compensation, and recommendations within the framework of the team-based care model. The report focuses on the APP workforce, liability and split-shared billing, with a special section on the expanded role of APPs in heart failure clinics. Learn more.

ACC Webinar: Congenital Heart Disease

January 30, 2024

Featured Webinar

Join ACC's CV Team Section for an educational webinar on congenital heart disease on Thursday, Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET. The webinar will help you prepare for ACC's Certified Cardiovascular Knowledge Examination for NPs and PAs, and will focus on integrating physical findings to develop differential diagnosis and recognizing cardiac arrhythmias in adults with congenital heart disease. Learn more.

CardioSmart Releases New Adult Vaccination Tools

December 12, 2023

CardioSmart Patient Centered Highlights

Keeping up with vaccines is an important part of healthy living, especially for patients with heart disease. Encourage your patients to get their flu shots and provide them with the vaccination tools and resources they need. ACC's CardioSmart recently launched new adult vaccination tools, including a handout with tips on increasing vaccination rates, a fact sheet on heart health and vaccination and a vaccination referral form. Find additional resources you can share with your patients on the importance of flu shots and heart health here.

Advance Your Sonography Skills

November 21, 2023

Educational Opportunities

Join the ACC for Advanced Concepts in Echocardiography For the Sonographer: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, on Saturday, Dec. 16 in Oakland, California. This FREE course is an exclusive opportunity to gain hands-on experience from expert sonographers and learn new HCM recognition skills.

National Hospice and Palliative Care Month

November 20, 2023

Announcements

This month, we reflect on the support palliative care can provide to patients with advanced heart disease. Along with advance care planning and symptom management, palliative care can alleviate psychological and existential distress and promote better quality of life.

Enter ACC’s Resume Sweepstakes to Win Free ACC.24 Registration

November 14, 2023

Announcements

Don’t miss the chance to win free registration to ACC.24 in Atlanta, GA, April 6-8, when you upload your resume to ACC Cardiology Careers. A free, members-only benefit of the College, ACC Cardiology Careers can help you find your next professional opportunity.

Happy PA Week to ACC’s PAs!

October 3, 2023   |   Amy E Simone, PA-C, FACC ;  Kyle Fortman, MBA, PA-C, FACC

Feature Article

National PA Week is Oct. 6-12. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all you do to advance cardiovascular medicine, and to share some exciting updates from the PA Work Group.

ACC.24 Call For Complex Clinical Cases

October 2, 2023

Announcements

CV Team members are invited to submit Complex Clinical Cases for presentation at ACC.24, held April 6-8, 2024, in Atlanta, GA. CV Team members should submit interesting clinical cases with an emphasis on collaboration and consultation with interdisciplinary colleagues, and highlighting the diagnostic features, care coordination/management strategies and experts involved in managing the case and securing a diagnosis.

Call For Applications: ACC Educator Fundamental Skills Course

October 2, 2023

Educational Opportunities

The ACC is accepting applications for the ACC Educator: Fundamental Skills Course, taking place Feb. 11-13, at Heart House in Washington, DC. This course will enhance presentation skills and provide opportunities to practice and advance your skills as a clinical educator!

Advance Your Career With the CCKE For NPs/PAs; Deadline to Register is Oct. 2

September 15, 2023

Educational Opportunities

The ACC is now offering the Certified Cardiovascular Knowledge Examination (CCKE), which allows participants to demonstrate their clinical knowledge, commitment to cardiovascular excellence and grow their professional accomplishments...

ACC CardiaCast: PulseCheck: Introduction to Federal Advocacy For the Cardiac Professional

August 21, 2023

Featured Podcast

Listen to "PulseCheck": a new series within CardiaCast designed for nurses or allied health care professionals who are new, or new to cardiology offering practical team-based solutions to the challenges that nurses and allied health professionals face every day.

MedAxiom Survey: 2023 CV APP Compensation and Utilization

August 20, 2023

Announcements

Advanced practice providers (APPs) are indispensable members of the cardiovascular care team and programs across the country are increasingly seeking out innovative strategies to effectively utilize APPs’ skillsets.

Call For Nominations: 2023 ACC Distinguished Excellence in CV Health Care Quality Award

August 8, 2023

Announcements

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2023 ACC Distinguished Excellence in Cardiovascular Health Care Quality Award. The award is presented annually to a nonphysician ACC member whose contributions have enhanced the implementation and value of NCDR and ACC Accreditation Services within the larger cardiovascular professional community.

Call For Applications: CV Team Section Quality Summit Travel Award

August 8, 2023

Call For Applications

ACC’s CV Team Section is offering travel awards for cardiovascular team members to attend ACC Quality Summit 2023, held Oct. 11-13 in Orlando, FL. Expenses including airfare, lodging, meals and ground transportation up to $1,000 will be reimbursed.

Registration Now Open For ACC Quality Summit

August 7, 2023

Upcoming Event

Connect with your NCDR and ACC Accreditation colleagues at ACC Quality Summit, taking place Oct. 11-13 in Orlando, FL. Learn about best practices with this year’s innovative education sessions, network with quality improvement peers and gain insights with posters presenting NCDR research.

Call For Nominations: 2024 Distinguished CV Team Member Award

August 1, 2023

Announcements

Nominations are now open for ACC’s 2024 ACC Distinguished Awards. Those recognized with an ACC Distinguished Cardiovascular Team Member Award are non-physician ACC members who have made and continue to make outstanding contributions to College initiatives and the field of cardiovascular medicine and encourage and nurture ACC's team approach to team-based cardiovascular care.

Submit Your Abstract For the 2024 Young Investigator Awards Competition

August 1, 2023

Announcements

Submissions are now open for the 2024 Young Investigator Awards competition at ACC's Annual Scientific Session. PharmD or DNP candidates who are no more than three years out of training are invited to become one of 15 young scientific researchers to present cutting-edge research in the Clinical Investigations, Basic and Translational Science, and Outcomes Research categories at ACC.24, held April 6-8 in Atlanta, GA.

CV Team Discount! Join Your ACC Advocacy Team in Washington, DC

July 13, 2023

Did you know that CV Team members qualify for an ACC Legislative Conference 2023 discount? Enter code CVT to receive $50 off registration and join your ACC Advocacy team Oct. 15-17 in Washington, DC! Don’t miss this annual opportunity to learn more about the major issues impacting the practice of cardiology and meet with your members of Congress.

ACC's Chest Pain – MI Registry Seeks Feedback on In-Hospital Mortality Risk Model

June 13, 2023

Announcements

As part of ongoing efforts to report meaningful outcomes and improve patient care, the ACC has launched an open comment survey for the Chest Pain – MI Registry In-Hospital Risk-Standardized Mortality Model.

ACC’s CathPCI Registry Seeks Feedback on In-Hospital or 30-Day Mortality Risk Model

June 6, 2023

Announcements

As part of ongoing efforts to report meaningful outcomes and improve patient care, the ACC has launched an open comment survey for the In-Hospital or 30-Day Risk-Standardized Mortality Model in patients undergoing PCI risk model.

ACC Accepting Proposals For 2023 CV Quality Initiative Funding

June 6, 2023

Announcements

The ACC Accreditation Services Foundation Committee is now accepting applications for proposals up to $100,000 to fund quality initiatives from U.S.-based health care organizations.

New ACC Online Course: Iron Deficiency in HF

May 22, 2023

Educational Opportunities

Learn to identify guideline-driven heart failure care, treatment options, and practice considerations associated with delivering IV iron replacement therapy with ACC’s new online course, Iron Deficiency in Heart Failure.

ACC Celebrates Nurses in May

May 9, 2023

Announcements

Nurses work hard to transform cardiovascular care for patients each day, and the ACC is celebrating their contributions to the profession all month long with a special offer to join the College for 40% off with code Nurses2023.

ACC's New CCKE For NPs/PAs Application Site Now Open

May 9, 2023

Announcements

Demonstrate your clinical knowledge, commitment to cardiovascular excellence, and grow your professional accomplishments by taking and passing ACC’s Certified Cardiovascular Knowledge Examination (CCKE)!

ACC Quality Summit 2023: Now Accepting Abstracts

May 8, 2023

Announcements

Share your quality improvement successes with an abstract for ACC Quality Summit 2023, taking place Oct. 11-13 in Orlando, FL. Showcase how NCDR and ACC Accreditation Services data have helped you improve patient care, processes or quality initiatives through innovative educational experiences, team-based collaboration, data collection processes, or research activities.

Last Call For Abstracts For Care of the Athletic Heart, Due April 11

April 6, 2023

Announcements

Showcase your work during ACC’s Care of the Athletic Heart, returning June 8-10 in person in Washington, DC, and virtually!

VIBRANT-AF Webinar Now Available On Demand

April 3, 2023

Featured Webinar

The University of California San Francisco is recruiting patients for a new VIBRANT-AF Research Study.

ACC.23/WCC Clinical Trials Recap

March 28, 2023

Featured Webinar

Listen to concise summaries from FITs from the University of Michigan, with commentary from ACC.org Editor-in-Chief Kim A. Eagle, MD, MACC, on the most impactful late-breaking clinical trials from ACC.23/WCC.

VIBRANT-AF Study Provides New Patient-Reported Outcomes Research Opportunity With NCDR

February 14, 2023

Educational Opportunities

Participating in NCDR offers facilities new opportunities to access patient-reported data to gage long-term outcomes.

Cardiology Magazine: What to Watch For in 2023?

January 18, 2023

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

In the January issue of Cardiology magazine, we explore the hottest clinical topics and biggest issues spanning cardiology that are expected to be top-of-mind in 2023.

Bring Your Team to CV Summit 2023: The Go-To Course For CV Solutions

December 21, 2022

Featured Meetings and Conferences

Register today for the Cardiovascular Summit, Feb. 16-18, 2023, in Washington, DC, a transformative educational experience with access to expert faculty...

Explore Sessions For CV Team Members Across 11 Learning Pathways at ACC.23/WCC

December 21, 2022

Featured Meetings and Conferences

Cardiovascular Team members at ACC.23 Together With WCC will engage with the latest cutting-edge science, get insight on tips and tricks that can immediately be implemented into clinical practice...

Listen to All 6 Episodes of CardiaCast's “PulseCheck” Series on Heart Failure

December 8, 2022

Featured Webinar

"PulseCheck" is a series within the CardiaCast podcast that is designed for nurses or allied health care professionals who are new, or new to cardiology, offering practical team-based solutions to the challenges that nurses and allied health professionals face every day.

ACC Webinar: Biomarker Testing During Pregnancy: When, How and Why Not

December 8, 2022

Featured Webinar

Join ACC’s Cardio-Obstetrics Work Group on Monday, Jan. 9 at 8 p.m. ET, for a webinar on the recent JACC: Advances article "The Utilization and Interpretation of Cardiac Biomarkers During Pregnancy."

Renew Your ACC & CV Team Section Membership by Dec. 10

December 5, 2022

Announcements

It’s time to renew your membership for 2023! An active ACC membership gives you access to a collaborative network that can help you meet your career goals, cutting-edge education, the latest science in 10 JACC Journals and support to help you provide high-quality care.

MedAxiom Survey: Integrating Health Care Provider Administered Lipid Management Pharmacologic Therapies Into Your Delivery Model

December 2, 2022

Announcements

Lipid management options for patients have expanded significantly in the last several years. This has been great for patient outcomes, but the delivery mechanisms of the newer pharmacologic therapies are complex.

CardiaCast's “PulseCheck” Series Focuses on AFib

November 15, 2022

Featured Podcast

"PulseCheck" is a series within the CardiaCast podcast that is designed for nurses or allied health care professionals who are new, or new to cardiology, offering practical team-based solutions to the challenges that nurses and allied health professionals face every day.

Cardiology Magazine: Dose-Reduced Direct Oral Anticoagulants: Practical Considerations

November 14, 2022

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are commonly used for the prevention of thrombosis in several cardiovascular contexts, including stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation and primary prevention, acute treatment or extended-duration secondary prevention of venous thromboembolism.

CardiaCast's “PulseCheck” Series Focuses on HF

November 8, 2022

Featured Podcast

"PulseCheck" is a series within the CardiaCast podcast that is designed for nurses or allied health care professionals who are new, or new to cardiology, offering practical team-based solutions to the challenges that nurses and allied health professionals face every day.

New MedAxiom Course: HF Essentials For APPs

November 8, 2022

Educational Opportunities

In its continued effort to educate and empower the cardiovascular care team, MedAxiom, an ACC Company, developed the Cardiovascular Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Essential Education Series: Heart Failure (HF), available through the MedAxiom Academy.

ACC Names Next CV Team Lead For ACC.24 and ACC.25

November 8, 2022

Announcements

Kimberly (Kim) Guibone, DNP, ACNP-BC, FACC, has been selected as ACC's Annual Scientific Session Cardiovascular (CV) Team Lead for ACC.24 and ACC.25.

MedAxiom Survey: APP Utilization and Compensation Best Practices

November 7, 2022

Announcements

The presence and value of advanced practice providers (APPs) has continued to increase as many organizations face staffing challenges in the current health care landscape.

Access Free Palliative Care Education

November 7, 2022

Educational Opportunities

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. ACC's Palliative Care for the Cardiovascular Clinician online course brings together resources in a dynamic, case-based format. Earn up to 20.5 continuing education credits as you increase your comfort with advance care planning and symptom management for your patients with serious illness.

Cardiology Magazine: Dose-Reduced Direct Oral Anticoagulants: Practical Considerations

November 7, 2022

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are commonly used for the prevention of thrombosis in several cardiovascular contexts, including stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) and primary prevention, acute treatment or extended-duration secondary prevention of venous thromboembolism.

ACCSAP Now Offers Credits For PAs

October 24, 2022

Educational Opportunities

Did you know ACCSAP now offers 194 Category 1 CME credits for PAs? Improve your knowledge in the field of adult clinical cardiology with comprehensive educational material to help identify knowledge gaps, reinforce existing knowledge and learn new information.

New MedAxiom Report Highlights CV Provider Compensation and Production Trends

October 5, 2022

Quick Reads and Recommendations

MedAxiom's 10th annual Cardiovascular Provider Compensation and Production Survey Report showcases year-to-year compensation comparisons from roughly 5,700 cardiovascular providers, as well as 10-year trends.

All Hospitals Participating in NCDR, ACC Accreditation Services Featured in 2023 USNWR ‘Best Hospitals’

September 19, 2022

Announcements

The ACC recognizes more than 2,000 hospitals, health systems and facilities that participate in NCDR registries and ACC Accreditation Services in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” guidebook, released Sept. 14.

ACC Webinar: Managing Pregnant, Highest Risk CV Patients

September 15, 2022

Featured Webinar

Your high-risk cardiovascular patient has just become pregnant. What do you do now? Join us for a webinar, "A Team-Based Approach for When the Highest Risk Cardiovascular Patient Becomes Pregnant" for the guidance you need.

Join the CV Team’s Advocacy Efforts at ACC Legislative Conference

September 14, 2022

Upcoming Event

The annual ACC Legislative Conference is approaching! This year’s conference will take place in-person at the Hyatt Regency in Washington, DC from Oct. 16-18.

Advocacy Update: CV Team Members Meet With Congress

September 13, 2022

Advocacy at the ACC

As part of ongoing advocacy efforts by the ACC and CV Team, a multi-disciplinary group virtually met with U.S. Representative Ann Kuster (D-NH-2) this summer. The group was comprised of advocates of varying specialties, including physicians, pharmacists, nurses, APPs, and CV administration.

ACC Webinar: APRN Educational Session on Heart Failure Treatment

August 30, 2022

Featured Webinar

Join moderator Sarah E. Slone, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CCRN, CNE, as well as Benjamin Hocutt, MSN, ACNP, AACC, and Stormi Gale, PharmD, BCPS, for an illuminating conversation on heart failure treatment strategies on Thursday, Sept. 8 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Call For Applications: Annual Scientific Session CV Team Lead, ACC.24 and ACC.25

August 23, 2022

Call For Applications

ACC’s Lifelong Learning Oversight Committee, the committee that oversees ACC's Annual Scientific Session, is seeking a qualified candidate to serve as CV Team Lead on the Annual Scientific Session Program Committee for a two-year term for ACC.24 and ACC.25.

Call for Nominations: ACC Distinguished Awards—Nominate a CV Team Colleague!

August 19, 2022

Announcements

The ACC Distinguished Awards program recognizes individuals making contributions to the cardiovascular profession. It’s time to honor those in our community making a difference — nominate a deserving colleague for one of the 2023 Distinguished Awards!

Call For Complex Clinical Cases Now Open

August 18, 2022

Announcements

Submit your complex clinical case for a chance to be featured at ACC.23/WCC, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of patient care by sharing your research with the global cardiovascular community.

Deadline Approaching: Apply For a Travel Award to ACC's 2022 Legislative Conference

August 9, 2022

Call For Applications

Applications are due by Wednesday, August 17. Apply today!

Call For Applications: Young Investigator Awards Competition

July 25, 2022

Call For Applications

The ACC is calling all young scientific investigators! Submit your abstract by Monday, Aug. 29 for the chance to be one of 18 finalists to compete in the Young Investigator Awards competition.

Save the Date For ACC's Virtual Cardiology Career Fair

July 25, 2022

Save the Date

ACC’s official virtual career fair is returning! Mark your calendars for Thursday, Sept. 22, 5-8 p.m. ET for an opportunity to meet with leading employers from across the country in a variety of practice settings right from your home or office.

Master the Fundamentals of Cardio-Obstetrics

July 19, 2022

Educational Opportunities

Virtually join ACC's inaugural Cardio-Obstetric Essentials: Team-Based Management of Cardiovascular Disease and Pregnancy course on Nov. 18!

CathPCI Registry Seeks Feedback on AKI Risk Model

June 28, 2022

Quality Improvement for Institutions

The ACC wants to hear from you! As part of ongoing efforts to report meaningful outcomes and improve patient care, the ACC is launching an open comment survey for the CathPCI Registry In-Hospital Risk Standardized Acute Kidney Injury Model.

Upcoming Webinar: Tips and Tricks For Writing a Successful Case Report

June 14, 2022

Join JACC: Case Reports Editor-in-Chief Julia Grapsa, MD, PhD, FACC; Deputy Editor Mary Norine Walsh, MD, FACC; and Associate Editor David L. Fischman, MD, FACC, on June 28 at 4 p.m. ET to learn tips and tricks for writing a successful case report.

Deadline Extended: ACC Quality Summit ePoster Abstracts Due June 13

June 14, 2022

Share your quality improvement successes with an abstract for ACC Quality Summit, scheduled for Sept. 14-16 in Los Angeles, CA, and virtually.

Call for Submissions: Long COVID Cardiac Cases

May 31, 2022

Announcements

JACC: Case Reports is inviting submissions for a 2022 special themed issue on long COVID cardiac cases. Papers in the form of clinical cases, clinical case series and clinical vignettes will be accepted.

Cardiology | The Nursing Shortage and CV Care: A Time For Action

May 10, 2022

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

In the May issue of Cardiology magazine, Bailey Ann Estes, MSN, RN-BC, RNFA, CNOR, RCIS, on behalf of ACC’s CV Management Section, gives a perspective on the current nursing shortage and its impact on cardiovascular care.

Deadline Extended: ACC Quality Summit Abstracts Due May 16

May 10, 2022

Announcements

Share your quality improvement successes with an abstract for ACC Quality Summit, scheduled for Sept. 14-16 in Los Angeles, CA, and virtually. Showcase how NCDR and ACC Accreditation Services data has helped improve patient care, processes or qualitative initiatives!

Get Your Category 1 CME Credits For PAs With ACCSAP

May 4, 2022

Announcements

Improve your knowledge in the field of adult clinical cardiology with ACCSAP. This self-assessment program now offers 194 Category 1 CME credits for PAs and includes comprehensive educational material to help identify your knowledge gaps, reinforce your existing knowledge and learn new information.

ACC Quality Summit: Now Accepting Abstracts

April 20, 2022

Upcoming Event

Share your quality improvement successes with an abstract for ACC Quality Summit, scheduled for Sept. 14-16 in Los Angeles, CA, and virtually. Showcase how NCDR and ACC Accreditation Services data has helped you improve patient care, processes or qualitative initiatives!

Engage With Sports Cardiology Experts in June

April 14, 2022

Upcoming Event

Join your colleagues virtually and register for Care of the Athletic Heart on June 3 for live sessions, panel discussions, debates and a Q&A! Learn about fundamental cardiovascular diagnostic and management strategies from sports cardiology experts through cases, research and treatment options, as well as the impacts of COVID-19 on athletes.

You’re Invited: CV Team Section Meeting & Reception at ACC.22

March 22, 2022

Upcoming Event

Hear about Section accomplishments, learn about initiatives for the coming year, explore ways to get involved, and expand your professional network during the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.22!

Donate to the Community Outreach Clothing Drive During ACC.22

March 22, 2022

Announcements

The CV Team, Women in Cardiology and Senior Cardiovascular Professionals Member Sections are co-sponsoring a Community Outreach Clothing Drive in partnership with Suited for Change and A Wider Circle. We will be collecting women’s and men’s professional attire, including suits, shoes and jewelry.

ACC.22 Preview for CV Team Members

March 10, 2022   |   Bailey Estes, RCIS, RN-C

Featured Meetings and Conferences

The countdown to ACC.22 has officially begun – after two years of virtual meetings, the CV Team is excited to meet up in person again from April 2-4 in Washington, DC!

Join ACC in Celebrating Women’s History Month

March 8, 2022

Announcements

Every March, the world comes together to recognize the contributions of women throughout history. At ACC, we are celebrating all the women who help advance our Mission to transform cardiovascular care and heart health each and every day.

Webinar: Advancing Resilience and Clinician Well-Being

February 15, 2022

Join the ACC's Accreditation Product Managers for a webinar on Feb. 24 at 3 p.m. ET to review how the pandemic has impacted the delivery of healthcare and how ACC, in response, is pivoting to a more streamlined approach to maintain Accreditation requirements.

NCDR Accepting 2022 Research Proposals Through April 8

February 15, 2022

Are you planning to submit an NCDR research proposal this year? Don’t miss the April 8 deadline! The NCDR Research & Publications (R&P) cycle offers one research proposal deadline annually for all NCDR programs except the STS/ACC TVT Registry.

Call For Applications: Faculty Development Work Group Position (Due Feb. 20)

February 13, 2022

Announcements

The ACC is accepting applications for the Faculty Development Work Group (FDWG), which reports to the Lifelong Learning Oversight Committee (LLOC). The FDWG's mission is to educate and develop ACC faculty and support education endeavors of the College. Furthering ACC's commitment to being member driven, leadership involvement in ACC's Faculty Development Work Group offers a unique opportunity to enhance your involvement in the College and drive concepts that are meaningful to you and connect with ACC's mission.

Reflecting on 2021 University of Colorado HF Conference and Colorado Chapter Annual Meeting

February 10, 2022   |   Jolin V. Honas, NP, AACC

Featured Meetings and Conferences

The 2021 University of Colorado Heart Failure Conference and Colorado Chapter Annual Meeting took place Dec. 9 – 10, 2021, at the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs.

Celebrate Heart Month With the CV Team #HeartMonthChallenge

February 8, 2022

Announcements

Every February since Lyndon Johnson proclaimed American Heart Month in 1963, there is a unique opportunity to shine a public spotlight on the impacts of cardiovascular disease...

Webinar: The Value in Accreditation Services Transcatheter Valve Certification

February 1, 2022

Featured Webinar

Join ACC Accreditation Services for a webinar on March 2 at 4 p.m. ET on the benefits of Transcatheter Valve Certification.

Call For Submissions: Sports Cardiology Case Reports

January 24, 2022

Call For Applications

JACC: Case Reports will publish a special themed issue on sports cardiology in 2022. Authors are invited to submit manuscripts in the form of clinical cases, clinical case series and clinical vignettes for consideration by March 14.

Improving Our Primary Palliative Care Skills

January 13, 2022   |   Jill A. Patton, RN, MSN, CRNP, AACC

Feature Article

While specialist-provided palliative care is important for patients with factors like difficult-to-treat symptoms, complex grief, existential distress, and family and team conflict, clinicians should be providing primary palliative care for all patients with serious illness.

ACC.22 Cardiovascular Team Section Poster Sessions

January 11, 2022

Featured Meetings and Conferences

We are pleased to invite you to participate in the Cardiovascular Team Section's Poster Sessions.

MedAxiom Report: Cardiovascular APP Compensation and Utilization Survey

January 10, 2022

Announcements

MedAxiom’s second annual Cardiovascular Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Compensation and Utilization Report outlines trends in APP roles and responsibilities, productivity, staffing ratios, hours, paid time off allowances, compensation and benefits, and more.

Learn the Latest CV Management Strategies at CV Summit

December 13, 2021

Register today for the Cardiovascular Summit, taking place Feb. 17-19, 2022, in Washington, DC, and discover how to align strong leadership with effective business strategies to improve cardiovascular care and patient outcomes.

ACC Legislative Conference CV Team Update

December 8, 2021   |   Adam James Burget

ACC’s Legislative Conference 2021 took place virtually Oct. 3 – 5. While the conference was virtual for the second consecutive year, attendance and impact were outstanding. Over 500 ACC members were a part of more than 300 visits with House and Senate members.

Journal Scan | 2021 AHA Dietary Guidance for Cardiovascular Health

November 23, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This American Heart Association (AHA) scientific statement, which replaces the 2006 AHA statement on diet and lifestyle recommendations, provides 10 key dietary recommendations for optimal cardiovascular health.

Rehabilitation in Older Patients After Acute HF Hospitalization

November 13, 2021

Upcoming Event

ACC’s Geriatric Cardiology Section invites you to join the authors of the REHAB-HF trial on Wednesday, Dec. 1 at 6 p.m. ET, to examine the importance of early rehabilitation among older adults hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure.

CV Team Career Perspective: Cardiology Research Coordinator

November 10, 2021   |   Jolin V. Honas, NP, AACC

Feature Article

Can you imagine still using urine as an antiseptic or giving boar bile enemas? How about the days in cardiology where exercise testing was done with an EKG before climbing a flight of stairs and then an EKG after?

Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

October 27, 2021   |   Adam James Burget

Feature Article

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Awareness Month. During this month, it’s a terrific opportunity for those of us in the cardiovascular team to review current literature and best practices for treatment and prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD).

Journal Scan | Risk of GI Bleeding With Rivaroxaban vs. Other DOACs

October 21, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Clinical trials have characterized the rates of GI bleeding between (DOACs and warfarin.

Journal Scan | Anticancer Drug-Induced Life-Threatening Ventricular Arrhythmias

October 19, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Increasing development and use of anticancer drugs has resulted in better prognoses and long-term survival for patients with malignancies but these drugs have also been associated with severe cardiovascular adverse drug reactions.

Free Online Course: Gain Actionable Insights on the Flu Vaccine and CVD

October 6, 2021

Educational Opportunities

During this time of an international pandemic, it is vitally important that cardiovascular specialists recognize the role they can play in having all their patients vaccinated for influenza. Improve your understanding of the influenza vaccines and their impact on your patients with ACC’s Taking the Lead: Flu and Cardiovascular Disease free online course.

Free Online Course: Improve Arrhythmia Detection and Diagnosis

October 5, 2021

Educational Opportunities

The ACC created the Raising the Bar in Arrhythmia Detection: A Diagnostic Toolbox online course to increase awareness and knowledge on the growing number of cardiac monitors available for the detection of arrhythmias.

Latinx Heritage Month: An Opportunity to Review Implications For Treatment

October 5, 2021   |   Adam James Burget

Feature Article

Latinx Heritage Month is celebrated annually in the U.S. from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 and is linked to the independence anniversaries of several Latin American nations. The month also provides us with the opportunity to reflect and review our knowledge of the Latinx communities and implications for treatment within these groups of individuals.

Journal Scan | Use of Flecainide in Stable Coronary Artery Disease

October 5, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This study evaluated the safety of flecainide in patients with nonobstructive and obstructive coronary artery disease.

Journal Scan | Efficacy and Safety of DOACs in Morbidly Obese Patients

October 1, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of apixaban, rivaroxaban, or dabigatran in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation weighing >120 kg compared to those weighing 60-120 kg.

Journal Scan | Onboarding for PAs and NPs

September 29, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This small pilot study used the Plan, Do, Study, Act quality improvement model to design and improve an effective onboarding strategy for newly hired hospitalist PAs and NPs.

Journal Scan | Guidance for Referral of Patients With Advanced HF

September 20, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

The purpose of this document is to provide a framework for providers and health care systems to identify patients who would most likely benefit from referral to an advanced heart failure clinic.

All NCDR, ACC Accreditation Services Hospitals in 2022 U.S. News & World Report 'Best Hospitals'

September 20, 2021

Announcements

The ACC recognizes more than 2,000 hospitals, health systems and facilities that participate in NCDR registries and ACC Accreditation Services in the 2022 U.S. News & World Report "Best Hospitals" guidebook, released Sept. 14.

AFib Awareness Month 2021

September 16, 2021   |   Kate Morgan, ACNP-BC, AACC

Feature Article

Can you imagine what it must be like for a patient to be told they have atrial fibrillation (AFib)? Imagine that they have never heard of this problem.

Get Involved in World Heart Day 2021

September 16, 2021   |   Bailey Estes, RCIS, RN-C

Feature Article

As cardiovascular professionals, we are constantly exposed to the daily impact of cardiovascular disease on our local patients, families and communities.

MedAxiom Survey: APP Utilization and Compensation Best Practices

August 31, 2021

Announcements

As organizations continue to develop innovative solutions to care for their growing patient populations, many have increased utilization of advanced practice providers (APPs).

Inpatient Consult For Acute HF: The Opportunity

August 12, 2021   |   Kate Morgan, ACNP-BC, AACC

Feature Article

Hospital admission is our opportunity to influence management and improve the lives of patients with heart failure (HF). Clinical assessment of the patient's New York Heart Association functional classification, ACC and American Heart Association (AHA) staging, and echocardiographic findings guide our therapy.

Nominate Your CV Team Colleague For an ACC Distinguished Award!

August 12, 2021

Announcements

ACC's Distinguished Awards program is your opportunity to nominate a peer whose outstanding work and leadership is advancing the College's Mission. The Distinguished Associate Award recognizes outstanding individuals whose contributions to initiatives of the College and the field of cardiology have encouraged and nurtured ACC's team approach to cardiovascular care.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Vaccination Clinic

August 12, 2021   |   Melissa Easterday, BS

Feature Article

When the Indiana University Health (IUH) Vaccine Clinics began to open across our system, I was eager to volunteer. Working remotely since the start of the pandemic, I felt my participation in this effort was one way I could give back to my peers who have been working tirelessly day in and day out on the front lines. I wanted to do my part to help keep my community safe.

Registration Now Open: Core Curriculum For the CV Clinician

August 10, 2021

Virtual Meeting

Are you an early career cardiovascular nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, physician assistant or pharmacist? If so, don’t miss the Core Curriculum for the Cardiovascular Clinician Virtual Experience, taking place Oct. 8 – 9.

Journal Scan | Repeat TAVR Outcomes

August 10, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Outcomes of repeat transcatheter aortic valve replacement in the national Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services database are examined in this retrospective, observational study.

Journal Scan | The CONNECT-HF Randomized Clinical Trial

August 5, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

The CONNECT-HF trial was a cluster randomized clinical trial to improve hospital and post-discharge quality improvement intervention compared to usual care. The trial included 161 US hospitals and 5,647 patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

Journal Scan | Statin Use and Severe Disease Outcomes in COVID-19

August 5, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Investigators compared outcomes of statin users and non-users who presented to Detroit Medical Center with a confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 diagnosis during the early months of the pandemic. Main study endpoints were mortality, need for mechanical ventilation, and intensive care unit admission.

Registration Open For ACC Quality Summit Virtual

August 4, 2021

Virtual Meeting

Registration is now open for ACC Quality Summit Virtual! Join NCDR and Accreditation Services colleagues Sept. 29 – Oct. 1 to learn best practices through phenomenal education sessions, networking and posters.

Journal Scan | Comparative Effectiveness of ACE Inhibitors and ARBs

August 3, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Using 5 administrative claims databases and 3 electronic health databases of more than 2.3 million patients initiating antihypertensive agents, researchers compared clinical endpoints, safety, and adverse effects between angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers.

Webinar: Cardio-Obstetrics Journal Club: Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

July 27, 2021

Featured Webinar

Join the ACC Cardio-Obstetrics Work Group for a webinar on Tuesday, Sept. 7, at 8 p.m. ET, that will highlight a recent JACC state-of-the-art review article on peripartum cardiomyopathy.

Increase Your Knowledge on Cardiac Rhythm Monitors

July 12, 2021

Educational Opportunities

The ACC has created the Raising the Bar in Arrhythmia Detection: A Diagnostic Toolbox online course to increase awareness and knowledge on the growing number of cardiac monitors available for the detection of arrhythmias.

Deadline Extended: Quality Summit Abstracts!

July 6, 2021

Upcoming Event

The deadline for abstracts for ACC Quality Summit, Sept. 29 – Oct. 1, has been extended to 11:59 p.m. on July 8!

ACC.21 Refocus on the CV Team

June 10, 2021   |   Bailey Estes, RCIS, RN-C

Feature Article

What a year! Littered with phrases such as "unprecedented" and "new normal," we have come full circle. As the virtual ACC.20/WCC wrapped up, we had high hopes that we would be meeting in person in Atlanta, GA, for ACC.21.

Men’s Health Week: CV Team Positioned to Promote, Educate on Men’s Health Topics

June 10, 2021   |   Adam James Burget

Feature Article

Every year in June, the U.S. observes Men's Health Month and Men's Health Week, which will be June 14 – 20 this year. The purpose of Men's Health Week is to encourage the men in our lives (and ourselves) to focus on improving health and wellness.

Journal Scan | Wearable Devices and Health Care Use

June 3, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This retrospective, observational study analyzed characteristics of patients who use wearable devices capable of detecting atrial fibrillation and the devices' impact on pulse rate and health care use.

CV Team Section Virtual Networking Session at ACC.21

May 11, 2021

Virtual Meeting

Connect with colleagues, expand your professional network and engage in small group discussions at the CV Team Section Virtual Networking Session at ACC.21 on Saturday, May 15 from 6 – 7 p.m. ET.

National Nurses Week Recognizes Dedicated Care, Healing Nurses Provide to Communities

May 7, 2021   |   Adam James Burget

Feature Article

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared 2020 the "Year of the Nurse…" in honor of Florence Nightingale’s 200th birthday, celebrated on May 12, 2020. This was proposed at a WHO meeting in January of 2019, over one year before COVID-19 would become significantly impactful around the globe.

Key Points | USPSTF Recommendations for Screening for HTN in Adults

April 29, 2021

Featured Key Points to Remember

In adults 18 years or older without hypertension (HTN), the US Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for HTN with office blood pressure (BP) measurement. Before starting treatment, BP measurements outside of the clinical setting should be obtained for diagnostic confirmation.

Journal Scan | HTN Treatment by Pharmacists in Black Barbershops

April 29, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

The Los Angeles Barbershop Blood Pressure Study proved the effectiveness of a novel intervention pairing trusted, non-medical community partners with pharmacists in improving hypertension. This study seeks to answer concerns about the long-term cost-effectiveness and scalability of this intervention.

Webinar: Addressing Determinants of Health to Improve Outcomes in CVD: A Focus on Minority Health

April 18, 2021

Featured Webinar

Join Jennifer Mieres, MD, FACC, and LaPrincess Brewer, MD, MPH, FACC, for this month’s ACC Diversity and Inclusion webinar on Thursday, April 29, at 7 p.m. ET.

Key Points | Antithrombotic Therapy in Elderly Patients With CAD

April 14, 2021

Featured Key Points to Remember

This review article focuses on special considerations in managing antithrombotic therapy in older patients with coronary artery disease, who often have increased risk of both ischemic and bleeding events.

Journal Scan | Use of Fluoroquinolones and Aortic Dissection or Aortic Aneurysm

April 13, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This study examined whether there is an association between the use of fluoroquinolones and risk of aortic dissection or aortic aneurysm.

Beyond the Hashtag: Making the Most of Social Media For Your Career

April 12, 2021

Featured Webinar

Social media is frequently used for sharing memes and viral videos, but it can also play a vital role in connecting professionals – and the medical community has taken notice.

New Infographics Illustrate How OTC and Herbal Products Interact With the CV System

April 12, 2021

Featured Infographic

The CV Team Section Writing Group, led by Vicki L. Groo, PharmD, created two new infographics to illustrate how over-the-counter (OTC) and herbal supplements interact with the cardiovascular system and medications for certain cardiovascular conditions.

ACC Launches EP Device Implant Registry, Expanding Scope of Former ICD Registry

April 11, 2021

Announcements

The ACC has changed the name of its ICD Registry to the EP Device Implant Registry, effective April 1. The EP Device Implant Registry will include data on ICD and CRT-D procedures previously captured in the ICD Registry, as well as provide flexibility to capture novel pacemaker procedures.

Hospitals in Baltimore Partner With Faith Leaders to Address Vaccine Inequity

April 8, 2021   |   Jae Patton, MSN, CRNP, AACC

COVID-19 Coverage

Early on in the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine in Baltimore, MD, officials began to sound the alarm that Black residents were receiving vaccines at a lower rate than white residents. Pastor Rodney Morton, a local faith leader, notes that initially there was a lot of reluctance to receive a COVID-19 vaccine due to the impression that it had been rushed to market, observing that calling the roll out Operation Warp Speed did not instill confidence.

Is It Time to Have a Mitral Valve Program: Understanding the Alphabet Soup!

April 6, 2021

Featured Webinar

Join ACC's CV Team Section on Tuesday, April 20 at 6 p.m. ET for a webinar on the basics of mitral valve disease with treatment options.

Action Alert: Ask Your Lawmakers to Support Access to CV Rehab

April 6, 2021

Advocacy at the ACC

The ACC-supported Increasing Access to Cardiac Rehabilitation Act of 2021 is moving through Congress. This bipartisan legislation would expand patient access to critical cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation (rehab) services during a crucial time when treatments for medical conditions have been delayed or avoided during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What’s in a Name? Recognition and Respect

April 6, 2021

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

In the famous play, Romeo and Juliet, William Shakespeare wrote: "'Tis but thy name that is my enemy…" In the play, Juliet ponders, "What's in a name?" saying it is only Romeo's name that's the enemy.

Last Call: NCDR Research Proposals Due April 9

April 5, 2021

Announcements

Don’t miss the April 9 deadline to submit an NCDR research proposal in 2021! Last year, NCDR changed its Research & Publications (R&P) cycle to offer one research proposal deadline annually, with one annual review meeting for all NCDR programs except the STS/ACC TVT Registry.

Key Points | Andexanet Alfa for Anticoagulant Reversal

March 26, 2021

Featured Key Points to Remember

This article reviews andexanet alfa for reversing the anticoagulant effects of apixaban or rivaroxaban.

CathPCI Registry Seeks Feedback on In-Hospital Risk-Standardized Mortality Model

March 25, 2021

Announcements

As part of ongoing efforts to report meaningful outcomes and improve patient care, the ACC is launching an open comment period for the CathPCI Registry In-Hospital Risk-Standardized Mortality Model.

New MedAxiom Resources For Advanced Practice Providers

March 23, 2021

Educational Opportunities

MedAxiom understands the important role of advanced practice providers (APPs) and is dedicated to providing tools and resources to propel them forward. Check out the new APP Hub on MedAxiom.com – a central location for consulting services, education and resources developed by MedAxiom experts to advance APPs and create sustainable care transformation initiatives.

ACC Launches UNITE Global Program to Advance Multidisciplinary, Cardiometabolic Care

March 23, 2021

Educational Opportunities

The ACC, in collaboration with Novo Nordisk A/S, launched a global program to support improvements in multidisciplinary care for people with Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Care of the Athletic Heart Virtual: COVID-19 in Athletes, ECG Interpretation and More

March 22, 2021

Virtual Meeting

There are an estimated 5 million active athletes at the high school, collegiate, professional and master's levels in the U.S. In a recent poll, cardiologists indicated they see an average of five patients who are athletes per week.

Cybersecurity During the COVID-19 Pandemic

March 11, 2021   |   Heba Sadaka, MSN ;  Elizabeth D. Lee, CNS ;  Veysel Erdag, PhD, CISM, CISA, CISSP, CCIE-Security

COVID-19 Coverage

Patients with cardiovascular disease are at an increased risk of severe illness from the COVID-19 virus (CDC, 2020). In the face of a pandemic, Americans had to change the way they live their lives by following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to mitigate the spread of the virus and protect the public.

Journal Scan | Medication Safety After Hospitalization in Patients Prescribed High-Risk Medications

March 2, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This study is a randomized controlled trial that evaluated the effect of a clinical pharmacist post-hospital discharge home visit targeted to intervene on medication safety issues in patients discharged on anticoagulants, insulin, oral diabetes medication, and/or opioids.

New CardioSmart Infographics Highlight CVD in Women

March 1, 2021

Featured Infographic

Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S., causing more women's deaths than all cancers, including breast cancer. At the same time, women often ignore symptoms and are less likely to get optimal treatment for cardiovascular conditions.

Take the Next Step in Your Career With ACC’s Virtual Career Fair

February 22, 2021

Career Development

Ready to take the next step on your path to career success? Register for ACC’s Virtual Career Fair!

NCDR Accepting 2021 Research Proposals Through April 9

February 21, 2021

Save the Date

Are you planning to submit an NCDR research proposal this year? Don’t miss the April 9 deadline!

New JACC: Case Reports Issue Dedicated to CHD and Imaging

February 21, 2021

JACC Family of Journals

The latest issue of JACC: Case Reports includes mini-focus sections on congenital heart disease and imaging.

New Self-Paced eLearning Tool on the Flu Vaccine and CVD

February 20, 2021

Educational Opportunities

Improve your understanding of the influenza vaccines and their impact on cardiovascular patients with the “Taking the Lead: Flu and Cardiovascular Disease” hub.

Journal Scan | Suicide Risk Management Protocol for Patients With Ischemic CVD Who Report Hopelessness

February 18, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

As part of a larger clinical trial examining the impact of a motivational intervention on hopelessness in patients with ischemic heart disease, investigators described the development and preliminary testing of a suicide risk management protocol for identifying, referring, and reporting suicide risk in patients.

Maryland ACC CV Team Leaders Step Up to the COVID-19 Vaccine Challenge

February 9, 2021

COVID-19 Coverage

In March 2020, the employee health team at Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital in Baltimore, MD, needed clinical and administrative leadership support to ensure they could keep staff as safe as possible in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Journal Scan | Changes in Firefighter Weight and CVD Risk Factors Over 5 Years

February 8, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Sudden cardiac events are the leading cause of duty-related deaths among firefighters, brought on by the strenuous nature of firefighting, and more likely to occur among obese firefighters.

Two New Infographics Illustrate Management of Cardiotoxicity From ICIs and BTK Inhibitors

February 5, 2021

Featured Infographic

In collaboration with Salim Hayek, MD, FACC, and the ACC Cardio-Oncology Clinical Topic Collection editorial team, the ACC CV Team Writing Group, led by Vicki L. Groo, PharmD, created infographics to illustrate how to manage cardiotoxicity induced by Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors.

ACC Selects Jane A. Linderbaum as ACC Annual Scientific Session CV Team Lead For ACC.22 and ACC.23

February 5, 2021

Announcements

The College has selected Jane A. Linderbaum, ARNP, CNP, FACC, as the ACC Annual Scientific Session CV Team Lead for ACC.22 and ACC.23. Linderbaum is an associate professor of medicine at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.

Acknowledge Cardiac Rehab Awareness Week During Heart Month

February 1, 2021

Upcoming Event

Join the ACC in recognizing Cardiac Rehab Awareness Week from Feb. 14 – 20 as part of American Heart Month.

Driving High-Functioning Clinical APP Teams

January 29, 2021

Featured Key Points to Remember

Save the Date: Poster Session For CV Pharmacists and Postdoctoral Trainees; Abstracts Due Feb. 24

January 19, 2021

Save the Date

ACC’s Cardiovascular Team Section and Clinical Pharmacy Workgroup is pleased to announce that there will be a pharmacy poster session at ACC.21, which takes place May 15 – 17 in Atlanta, GA.

JACC Leadership Page Highlights Value of NCDR in Advancing Patient Care and Outcomes

January 11, 2021

JACC Family of Journals

"To improve patient outcomes, we must accurately measure, reliably compare and constantly improve the quality of care we deliver," write ACC President Athena Poppas, MD, FACC, and NCDR Oversight Committee Chair Frederick A. Masoudi, MD, MSPH, FACC, in a JACC Leadership Page highlighting the ways ACC’s NCDR registries are consistently delivering on this aspirational goal.

Journal Scan | Advance Care Planning Among Older Adults in Low SES Neighborhoods

January 7, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This study employed a novel approach to evaluate electronic health record and advance care planning data among older adults using geocoded and neighborhood socioeconomic status data.

Key Points | NLA Scientific Statement on CAC Scoring for ASCVD Prevention

December 23, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

This scientific statement from the National Lipid Association reviews practical aspects, indications, and contraindications for coronary artery calcium scoring regarding primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

New Infographic Describes Role of Potassium Binders in Management of Hyperkalemia

December 9, 2020

Featured Infographic

The CV Team Writing Group, led by Vicki L. Groo, PharmD, created this infographic to describe the problem of chronic hyperkalemia and illustrate how to manage it with potassium binders.

Register For “Heart Tank for the Cardiovascular Investigator” on Dec. 1

November 25, 2020

Upcoming Event

Join ACC’s Academic Cardiology Section for a pitch-competition style webinar on Dec. 1!

Council Review Looks at Systematic Approach To Implement Digital Health Strategies in Older Adults

November 24, 2020

JACC Family of Journals

A systematic approach may be needed to study and implement digital health strategies in older adults, according to a state-of-the-art review from ACC’s Health Care Innovation, Cardiovascular Team and Geriatric Cardiology Councils published Nov. 23 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Adapting Cardiac Rehabilitation During the COVID-19 Pandemic

November 23, 2020

COVID-19 Coverage

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cardiovascular disease and being age 65 or older are high risk factors for developing severe illness from COVID-19. In the University of Southern California’s Understanding America Study, depression, anxiety and loneliness increased up to three-fold nationwide in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

ACC CV Team Members: Team Up For the Future

November 23, 2020

Announcements

ACC’s Campaign for the Future is your chance to team up and help shape the future of the cardiology profession.

Download the Latest Flu Tools

November 23, 2020

CardioSmart Patient Centered Highlights

Patients with cardiovascular disease have a ten times higher risk of heart attack within three days of getting the flu and are more likely to have a heart attack even weeks after the flu.

Guidance For Use of NCDR Clinical Quality Measures During COVID-19 Pandemic Released

November 22, 2020

Announcements

The College has released guidance for the use of NCDR data for external accountability, such as health insurance payer programs or employment compensation programs.

Explore a New Pathway to the FACC Designation

November 6, 2020

Career Development

Did you know the College invites cardiovascular team members to apply for Fellowship in the ACC?

Key Points | Cardiac Amyloidosis

November 5, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

Cardiac amyloidosis is a frequently underrecognized cause of heart failure, particularly diastolic heart failure. This review explains the basic pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of the most common forms of cardiac amyloidosis.

Advancing Health Equity For Heart Failure Patients

October 22, 2020

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Caring for vulnerable populations presents some unique challenges. It also offers immense opportunities for innovation to effect positive change for many lives.

Call For Applications: Annual Scientific Session CV Team Lead, ACC.22 and ACC.23

October 22, 2020

Call For Applications

ACC's Lifelong Learning Oversight Committee, the committee that oversees ACC's Annual Scientific Session, is seeking a qualified candidate to serve as CV Team Lead on the Annual Scientific Session Program Committee for a two-year term for ACC.22 and ACC.23.

New Infographic Illustrates Management of Cardiotoxicity From Anthracyclines and HER2 AntagonistsNew Infographic Illustrates Management of Cardiotoxicity From Anthracyclines and HER2 Antagonists

October 20, 2020

Announcements

Salim Hayek, MD, FACC, in collaboration with ACC's Cardio-Oncology Clinical Topic Collection editorial team and the CV Team Writing Group, led by Vicki L. Groo, PharmD, created this infographic to illustrate how to manage cardiotoxicity induced by anthracyclines and HER2 antagonists.

Multilingual ASCVD Risk Estimator App Now Available

October 16, 2020

Announcements

The ACC recently launched the Multilingual ASCVD Risk Estimator app, a simplified web-based version of the ASCVD Risk Estimator Plus app that provides clinicians with an efficient way to calculate a patient's estimated 10-year ASCVD risk, optimal risk and lifetime risk.

Journal Scan | EMS Use by Persons With HF 2009-2017

October 7, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

Heart failure (HF) is associated with high rates of hospitalization, with patients transported to hospitals via emergency medical services (EMS), or ambulance. To evaluate EMS use among persons with HF, EMS data from a Midwestern city over an 8-year period were modelled to evaluate predictors of EMS use, including multiple EMS transports.

Register For ACC’s Core Curriculum for the Cardiovascular Clinician Virtual Experience

September 24, 2020

Educational Opportunities

Are you a cardiovascular clinician early in your career? If so, do not miss the Core Curriculum for the Cardiovascular Clinician Virtual Experience – with access beginning on Oct. 19!

Register For the CV Team and CV Administrators Legislative Conference Pre-Session

September 22, 2020

Upcoming Event

Are you attending ACC's 2020 Virtual Legislative Conference from Oct. 4 – 6? Make sure you are prepared by participating in the CV Team and CV Administrators Legislative Conference Pre-Session, taking place on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 2 – 4 p.m. ET.

New Issue of JACC: Case Reports Focuses on Coronaries, CHD and Electrophysiology

September 22, 2020

JACC Family of Journals

Now live via online open access, the September issue of JACC: Case Reports is divided into three mini-focus issues highlighting coronary pathology, congenital heart disease (CHD) and electrophysiology clinical cases.

Journal Scan | Insufficient Calorie Intake Worsens QoL and Increases Readmissions in Patients With HF

September 21, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

Patients with heart failure (HF) are instructed to reduce sodium intake. This may inadvertently lead to insufficient caloric intake in patients with HF, including those who are obese. The authors found that insufficient calorie intake was associated with poor quality of life at discharge, increased risk for readmission, and longer rehospitalization days.

Key Points | State-of-the-Art Review on CCTA

September 21, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

This review summarizes contemporary use and emerging applications for coronary computed tomography angiography, which is positioned to become a leading modality in cardiac imaging.

Survey Finds More Than Half of Pediatric Cardiology Nurses Are Burned Out

September 9, 2020

Feature Article

More than half of nurses caring for children with cardiovascular conditions are emotionally exhausted and good working environments were linked with less burnout, according to a survey presented during ESC Congress 2020.

Key Points | Genetic Testing in Dyslipidemia

August 27, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

According to these updated National Lipid Association guidelines, decisions regarding genetic testing of patients with dyslipidemia should be based upon clinical suspicion of a genetic basis, anticipated benefits/risks of testing, and patient preference.

COVID-19 Themed Issue of JACC: Case Reports

August 26, 2020

COVID-19 Coverage

Addressing the COVID-19 pandemic requires a coordinated plan that balances quality patient care with the safety of health care workers, all while maintaining consistent access to care for patients with and without COVID-19.

Call For Papers: JACC: Case Reports Procedural Complications Issue

August 11, 2020

JACC Family of Journals

JACC: Case Reports will publish a special themed issue on complications this December. Authors are invited to submit cases representing interventional, electrophysiology and transcatheter complications for consideration on or before Monday, Sept. 7.

Cardiology in North Central Washington – Meeting the Patient Where They Are

August 10, 2020

Feature Article

People chose to live in our area because of the abundant sunshine, recreational opportunities and slower pace of life. Naturally, a large portion of our population is retired and in need of comprehensive medical services.

Journal Scan | Implementation Science Addresses Training and Technology Needs of Health Care Workers Caring for Adults With HF

August 4, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This article explores the role of technology among health care workers caring for patients with heart failure and the opportunities for identifying how technology could improve home health care delivery and better leverage the role of health care workers in the care team.

Journal Scan | Physical Activity is Higher in Patients With LVAD Compared With CHF

August 4, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

Impaired exercise capacity (a hallmark symptom of chronic heart failure) improves after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, though it remains substantially below the exercise capacity of cardiac transplant patients and healthy same-aged individuals. This article examines whether LVAD implantation improves daily physical activity levels when compared to a group of patients with similarly advanced chronic heart failure but without LVADs.

Help Us Improve Your ACC.org Experience

August 4, 2020

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The College is working to improve the ACC.org homepage experience for all ACC members – and we need your help! Take two to three minutes to fill out a brief survey letting us know what information that matters most to you on ACC.org.

CardioSmart Debuts New Website For Patients, Clinicians

August 4, 2020

CardioSmart Patient Centered Highlights

ACC's new CardioSmart website is designed to emphasize the value of the patient and clinician partnership to personalize care. With the goal of better connecting patients with their clinicians to prevent or treat heart disease, the new CardioSmart.org, provides information on heart conditions and trusted resources and tools to support important health conversations and foster a strong partnership.

An Update on Acute Mechanical Circulatory Support in Cardiogenic Shock

August 4, 2020

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is an attractive and intuitive option when medical approaches to supporting a weakened heart are insufficient. But while the field is a growing one, it is also one that has produced a jumbled evidence base for a range of devices and a smattering of indications.

Journal Scan | Effects of Lifestyle Physical Activity on Vascular Function in Asymptomatic PAD

July 27, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

The benefits of a physical activity intervention in peripheral arterial disease have been demonstrated; however, the extent to which increased physical activity and reduced sedentary behavior improves endothelial function in asymptomatic peripheral arterial disease has not been well studied.

Journal Scan | Pulmonary Embolism in COVID-19 Patients in France

July 23, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This study investigated risk factors and characteristics of patients with pulmonary embolism among those hospitalized for coronavirus disease 2019.

Key Points | The Role of PCI in SIHD

June 22, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

This article reviews important principles undergirding contemporary use of percutaneous coronary intervention and its limited role in the management of stable ischemic heart disease.

Coping With Postponed Procedures: Coronavirus and Your Heart Infographic Now Available

June 12, 2020

Resources From CardioSmart

Many nonurgent tests and procedures have been put on hold because of COVID-19. Potential delays can worry patients living with a heart condition. ACC's CardioSmart team has created a second Coronavirus and Your Heart infographic to help patients cope with postponed procedures.

The CV Team and COVID-19: Lessons From the Frontlines

June 10, 2020

Feature Article

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a ripple effect across the globe and impacted our professional and personal lives. On one hand, the negative impact of the virus is very apparent. However, there is a silver lining in how it has pulled communities together. Our community, which was already close, has been drawn closer as the need for support has never been greater. Thus, the ACC and the Cardiovascular Team Section have been working to devise resources to support our membership.

Share Your Feedback on JACC Journals

June 5, 2020

Announcements

The publications team is conducting reader surveys to gain insights and opinions on two JACC Journals.

Key Points | International Consensus Report on Drug-Coated Balloons

June 2, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

This state-of-the-art review and international consensus statement updates prior recommendations for drug-coated balloons and reviews efficacy and safety in in-stent restenosis, de novo small vessel disease, high-bleeding-risk patients, bifurcation lesions, and large vessel disease. There are minimal data that support the use of drug-coated balloons in patients with diabetes mellitus and acute coronary syndromes.

Nurse-led Sedation in TAVR: Optimizing Resources, Outcomes

June 1, 2020

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly delayed "elective" procedures – including TAVR at many centers.

The Emerging Role of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Cardiology: Insights From the ACC APRN Survey

June 1, 2020

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) continue to assume an increasing role in the care of individuals with cardiovascular disease.

NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry, CathPCI Registry to Collect COVID-19 Data

May 19, 2020

COVID-19 Coverage

The ACC will begin collecting COVID-19 data through the NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry and the CathPCI Registry to capture the relationship between COVID-19 and heart disease and maximize data on the cardiac impact of the virus.

Patient Navigator Program Helps Identify AMI, HF Patients; Readmission Risk

May 19, 2020

Patient Centered

A coordinated quality improvement program like ACC's Patient Navigator Program may be associated with increased identification of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and heart failure (HF) patients who are at risk for readmission, according to a recent study in the American Heart Journal.

The ACC Celebrates Nurse Appreciation Month

May 8, 2020

Announcements

Nurses deserve the utmost gratitude and appreciation for their commitment to delivering the highest standards of cardiovascular care, especially in times like these.

Cardiovascular Clinical Competencies 2020: The Foundation

May 7, 2020

Feature Article

The new 2020 ACC Clinical Competencies for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants in Adult Cardiovascular Medicine lead the way in laying down a foundation to build our practice and enhance our value within the cardiovascular team.

Stronger Together: Using the ACC COVID-19 Hub to Guide the CV Team

May 7, 2020

Feature Article

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to multiple professional organizations working together to create coordinated responses and creating resources to help guide the front-line team.

Virtual ACC.20/WCC: The Show Must Go On

May 7, 2020

Feature Article

The ACC Annual Scientific Session has been a staple for the latest in science, education and networking for cardiovascular professionals worldwide for the past 69 years. Years are spent planning and coordinating this global conference.

Showcase QI Best Practices at ACC Quality Summit

April 29, 2020

Save the Date

Submit your abstract for ACC Quality Summit, scheduled for Oct. 7 – Oct. 9 in Orlando, FL.

Journal Scan | Associations Between Physical and Affective Symptom Clusters and 6-Month Outcomes in HF

April 27, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This study aimed to identify associations between physical and affective symptom clusters in heart failure using cross-classification modeling approaches, quantify the influence of symptom subgroups on 6-month event-free survival, and characterize determinants of symptom subgroups.

Journal Scan | Lower Rates of HF and All-Cause Hospitalizations During PAP-Guided Therapy for Ambulatory HF

April 27, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

In the United States, the number of heart failure (HF) hospitalizations remains high despite efforts to detect HF decompensation earlier by telemonitoring surveillance of patients’ signs and symptoms. Because hemodynamic changes precede HF decompensation by several weeks, the ability to monitor pulmonary artery pressures by an implanted sensor can allow for the early detection of rising pulmonary artery pressures, earlier intervention, and the reduction of HF hospitalization.

NCDR, Accreditation Services Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic

April 21, 2020

COVID-19 Coverage

NCDR and ACC Accreditation Services recognize the incredible challenges hospitals and front-line health care workers are facing while providing lifesaving measures for their patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Don’t Ignore Heart Symptoms: Coronavirus and Your Heart Infographic Now Available

April 21, 2020

Resources From CardioSmart

Hospitals across the U.S. are experiencing an influx of COVID-19 patients, but clinicians are reportedly seeing fewer patients going to the emergency room for heart attack or stroke. Experts worry that patients who need critical care are delaying their treatment over COVID-19 concerns.

Journal Scan | Alert-Based Computerized Decision Support for Hospitalized Patients With AF Not Prescribed Anticoagulation

April 14, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

For patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), anticoagulation for stroke prevention is under-prescribed. This study looks at the use of alert-based computerized decision support to increase anticoagulation prescribing in hospitalized patients with AF.

Journal Scan | Takotsubo Syndrome

March 30, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This article provides a broad overview of the biological basis, clinical presentation, and management of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as broken heart syndrome.

Call For COVID-19 Clinical Cases

March 25, 2020

In an effort to help inform and educate our medical community on improved patient care related to the COVID-19 pandemic, JACC: Case Reports offers a publication avenue for sharing this knowledge with less preparation time than traditional manuscripts and fast-tracked review.

New Issue of JACC: Case Reports Highlights HF, Cardiomyopathies, Wearables in Cardiac Care and More

March 25, 2020

The newest issue of JACC: Case Reports contains a wide variety of clinical cases, imaging vignettes, editorial comments and viewpoint articles providing actionable science for cardiovascular clinicians of all experience levels.

ACC Issues Clinical Competencies For Cardiovascular NPs, PAs

March 25, 2020

Journal Scan | 2020 ACC Clinical Competencies for NPs and PAs in Adult Cardiovascular Medicine

March 23, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

These are key points to remember about this American College of Cardiology (ACC) Competency Statement for nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) in adult cardiovascular medicine.

ACC Seeks Comments on Expert Consensus Decision Pathway Document on Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Therapy

March 9, 2020

Announcements

The ACC is seeking comments on a draft of the 2020 ACC Expert Consensus Decision Pathway for Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation or Venous Thromboembolism Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention or with Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease.

Journal Scan | DOAC Use in Obese Patients With Acute VTE

March 3, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

There is a paucity of clinical information regarding use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in obese patients. For this reason, current guidelines discourage use of DOACs in patients weighing over 120 kg or with a body mass index greater than 40 kg/m2.

Journal Scan | Innovative HF Management Through EHRs

March 3, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This JACC Heart Failure State-of-the-Art Review discusses various innovative features of the electronic health record (EHR) that can support heart failure care. Throughout the review, the authors follow a hypothetical patient and contrast care using minimal versus optimal EHR tools.

RSVP For the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.20/WCC

February 18, 2020

Save the Date

Connect with ACC leaders and expand your professional network at the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception, taking place March 28 at 5 p.m. CT at the Marriott Marquis Chicago, at ACC.20/Together With World Congress of Cardiology (ACC.20/WCC).

Potential CV Risk With Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying

February 12, 2020

Feature Article

Adverse cardiovascular outcomes following traumatic events are well established, especially in the aftermath of tragedies that evoke intense or prolonged stress. Firefighters who arrived early or had prolonged exposure to the World Trade Center trauma had higher incident rates of myocardial infarction, stroke, unstable angina, and cardiovascular mortality.

Acknowledge Cardiac Rehab Awareness Week During Heart Month

February 5, 2020

Announcements

Join the ACC in recognizing Cardiac Rehab Awareness Week from Feb. 9 – 15 as part of American Heart Month. Clinicians can easily explain the benefits of cardiac rehab with CardioSmart's Cardiac Rehab infographic.

Journal Scan | Health Care Hotspotting

February 5, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This study looked at the impact of the Camden Core Model, a well-known and highly respected transitional care program, on a diverse group of medically and socially complex patients and their healthcare utilization, specifically their readmissions at 180 days after an index admission.

Journal Scan | Racial and Ethnic Differences in AS

January 24, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

Most studies on the management and outcomes of aortic stenosis focus on black and white racial groups, with limited data on Asian and Hispanic populations. This article highlights the differences in underrepresented racial/ethnic groups in the management and outcomes of aortic stenosis.

Journal Scan | Idiopathic Pericarditis

January 24, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This review article provides an overview of the diagnosis and management of idiopathic pericarditis, incorporating recommendations from the 2015 European Society of Cardiology guidelines on pericardial disease.

JACC: Case Reports Highlights CVD in Women

January 23, 2020

JACC Family of Journals

The newest issue of JACC: Case Reports is entirely dedicated to the topic of cardiovascular disease in women.

Live Session at ACC.20/WCC: Improving How We Communicate CVD Risk to Patients

January 23, 2020

ACC20WCC

As clinicians, we spend a lot of time thinking and talking about risk. While risk-related concepts may seem clear to us, they can register with patients as a confusing assortment of jargon and numbers. Moreover, patients' comprehension of and reactions to risk are influenced by a host of factors that are not always well understood by clinicians.

JACC Leadership Page: Opioid Crisis Impacting More Than Just Patients

January 23, 2020

JACC Family of Journals

In a new Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Richard J. Kovacs, MD, FACC; Jason H. Gilbert, PHD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC; and William J. Oetgen, MD, MBA, FACC, discuss the issues that clinicians, hospitals and practices are facing in light of the opioid crisis.

Journal Scan | Estimated Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Risk of AF

January 22, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

High levels of measured cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality and may reduce the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). Less is known about estimated CRF and AF risk and if long-term changes in estimated CRF affects AF risk.

Webinar: DAPT and Combination Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Therapy

January 14, 2020

Featured Webinar

Join Glenn N. Levine, MD, FACC, recent chair of the DAPT Guideline Focused Update and chair of the ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines, for a webinar on Monday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. ET.

Global Paradigm of Care: Empowering Heart Failure Nurses Through Learn, Practice and Perform

January 8, 2020

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

In many low-and-middle income countries, there is evidence of suboptimal heart failure management. To address this issue and bring the quality of care available in the U.S. to other countries, the ACC launched an international training program for heart failure nurses in 2017. Cardiology magazine spoke with the two lead educators for the initiative, Sara Paul, DNP, FNP, CHFN, CCA, who directs the Heart Function Clinic at Catawba Valley Cardiology in Conover, NC, and Cynthia Bither, ACNP, MSN, AACC, chief nurse practitioner of the Advanced Heart Failure Program at MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC, who have spent the past three years traveling the world to empower heart failure nurses.

Taking Time to Breathe

January 6, 2020

Feature Article

I recently read the obituary of one of my esteemed colleagues. It listed all his certifications, achievements, awards and invaluable contributions to our field – symbols of his pioneering vision. I thought to myself. I hope he had time to take a step back, look at all his achievements and life journey with a smile. I hope he took a walk in the rain. On a day so bleak and dreary, the rain-tipped leaves formed diamond crystals that sparkled.

Highly Attended ACC Iowa WIC Chapter Event Piques High School Student Curiosity in Cardiology Careers

January 6, 2020

Feature Article

On Dec. 4th, the ACC Iowa Women in Cardiology (WIC) Chapter held an event, Introduction to Women in Cardiology, for Quad-City area female high school students with interests in science and medicine. Reception of the event was fantastic, with almost triple the anticipated attendance.

Journal Scan | Factors Associated With Self-Care in Patients With HF With and Without Cognitive Impairment

December 20, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This study looked at the effects of cognitive impairment on self-care in patients with heart failure and showed that there are distinctly different factors positively associated with self-care in patients with differing levels of cognitive function.

Journal Scan | Oral Anticoagulant Prescription Trends and Adherence Determinants in AF

December 18, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This article assesses trends in oral anticoagulant use, persistence, and adherence rates for 1 year post-hospitalization in new oral anticoagulant users with atrial fibrillation from 2011 to 2017.

Take Advantage of New Multifaceted HF Curriculum

December 13, 2019

Educational Opportunities

The multi-faceted Improving Heart Failure Outcomes Through Personalized Education (HOPE) curriculum from the ACC and Haymarket Medical Education consists of 30 live and online certified education activities to help health care professionals improve heart failure (HF) patient care and outcomes.

Recap of ACC’s Legislative Conference

December 12, 2019

At this year's ACC Legislative Conference, the CV Team lobbied for important cardiovascular initiatives. Overall, the response from the House and Senate representatives were very positive and supportive of our concerns.

CV Team Testimonial: MedAxiom’s 2019 CV Provider Compensation, Production Survey

December 12, 2019

Advanced practice providers (APPs) provide invaluable services to the cardiovascular team. These services are often not captured by RVUs, as APPs save time and resources in procedures, bundled payments, and free up physician time to engage in productive high RVU generating work.

Key Points | National Lipid Association Scientific Statement on Icosapent Ethyl

December 3, 2019

Featured Key Points to Remember

This scientific statement from the National Lipid Association recommends icosapent ethyl for cardiovascular risk reduction in select patients and is largely based on results of REDUCE-IT (Reduction of Cardiovascular Events With Icosapent Ethyl–Intervention Trial).

Apply For ACC’s Member Mentoring Program by Dec. 15

November 26, 2019

Educational Opportunities

The ACC is launching a year-long structured mentoring program to provide real-world support and coaching for early career members.

Want to See Your Clinical Case Presented During ACC.20/WCC?

November 26, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

Submit to JACC: Case Reports by Dec. 31 and your case could be selected for presentation during the Journal's Best of 2019 session during ACC.20 Together With the World Congress of Cardiology.

Celebrate Caregivers During National Family Caregivers Month

November 8, 2019

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Join the ACC in recognizing National Family Caregivers Month. Caregivers are an important part of the care team; however, caregiving is a complex responsibility, and the stress of being a caregiver can strain your own health.

Journal Scan | Ventricular Tachyarrhythmia in Patients Improved Beyond Guidelines for ICD in MADIT-CRT

October 29, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This study assessed rates of ventricular tachyarrhythmia in those who did and did not improve with cardiac resynchronization therapy in the MADIT-CRT trial beyond the current guideline indication for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator.

Sign Up For “Microvolunteer” Opportunities

October 28, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

There are a lot of big ways to get involved with the College – being on a Section Leadership Council, participating on a taskforce or committee, or serving as faculty for a live course, to name a few. However, we know that not everyone has the time for some of these larger-scale commitments. That's why the ACC is excited to announce the launch of our Microvolunteering Platform.

Call For Applications: ACC Leadership Academy Cohort IV

October 22, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

Applications are now being accepted for the ACC Leadership Academy Cohort IV, which will launch at ACC.20/World Congress of Cardiology in Chicago, IL.

Webinar: Addressing Disparities in SHD

October 11, 2019

Featured Webinar

The ACC CV Team Section's Structural Heart Disease (SHD) Team Work Group will host the first in a series of two webinars this fall targeting members of the interdisciplinary SHD care team.

Call For Articles: ACC CV Team Section Newsletter

October 7, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The ACC CV Team Section's Communication Committee needs articles from members for the upcoming issues of its newsletter. Consider submitting a short article on a topic of interest to you. Articles only need to be 250 – 500 words and ACC staff can help with copyediting.

Discover This Year's Scientific Advances at ACC’s New York CV Symposium 2019

October 4, 2019

Upcoming Event

Join world-renowned cardiologist and course director Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, MACC, at ACC's New York Cardiovascular Symposium, taking place Dec. 6 – 8.

Celebrate American Pharmacists Month and National PA Week With Special Nonmember Discount

October 4, 2019

Announcements

The ACC is marking both American Pharmacists Month and National PA Week (Oct. 6 – 12) with a special discount for nonmembers. Pharmacists and PAs who join the College in October save 40 percent on membership.

ACC CV Team Members Promote Heart Health During World Heart Day

October 4, 2019

Feature Article

During this year’s World Heart Day, which took place on Sunday, Sept. 29, ACC CV Team members took to Twitter to show the world how they pursue heart health in their own lives. Below are some examples of how members continue to keep their heart strong, whether it’s exercising, hiking, playing with their kids or grandkids, walking a pet, or more!

Attend ACC’s CV Clinician Course Virtually With ACC Anywhere

September 24, 2019

Educational Opportunities

Can’t attend ACC’s Core Curriculum For the Cardiovascular Clinician course? Participate with ACC Anywhere and attend virtually!

Journal Scan | CT-Derived FFR in the ED

September 23, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This retrospective study evaluated computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve for patients with acute chest pain presenting to an emergency department.

Journal Scan | Missed Opportunities for EOL Decision-Making Discussions in ICD Recipients

September 23, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Patient and provider end-of-life discussions and decision-making are integral aspects of guideline-based care for patients undergoing cardioverter-defibrillator implantation. However, how health literacy is related to patient experiences, attitudes, and knowledge of the implanted cardioverter defibrillator at the end of life is unknown.

ACC Seeks Comments on Clinical Competency Document For CV NPs and PAs

September 13, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The ACC is seeking comments on a draft competency statement describing the knowledge and skills of clinical cardiovascular nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs), including those in general cardiology practice and those working in focused areas of cardiovascular medicine.

Empower Your Patients With ACC’s New HF Tools and Resources

September 13, 2019

Patient Centered

ACC's CardioSmart team recently developed a suite of tools and resources to help patients with heart failure begin managing their condition and know what to expect. Help your patients reach their goals with the "I Have Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction. Now What?" My Heart Failure Action Plan.

Celebrate World Heart Day With the College and Your Colleagues

September 4, 2019

Upcoming Event

Show your peers and the world how you pursue heart health in your own life on World Heart Day, taking place on Sunday, Sept. 29. Post a photo or video on Twitter of yourself exercising, hiking, playing with your kids or grandkids, or walking a pet – anything you do to keep your heart strong.

JACC: Case Reports Second Issue Now Live

August 29, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

The second issue of JACC: Case Reports is now online. Accompanied by a summary podcast from Editor-in-Chief Julia Grapsa, MD, PhD, FACC, the issue includes a mini-focus issue on interventional complications and their management, a heart care team/multidisciplinary team live case, clinical vignettes and more.

An Open Letter to the CV Team: CV Rehab Legislation

August 2, 2019   |   Heather M. Ross, NP

Feature Article

For several years, our ACC worked together with other stakeholder groups and members of Congress to pass legislation that expands access to cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) services by allowing advanced practice clinicians – nurse practitioners, physician assistants and clinical nurse specialists – to supervise cardiac rehab services.

Upcoming Deadlines For ACC Emerging Faculty Leadership Academy, ACC Legislative Conference

August 2, 2019

Announcements

The ACC is now accepting nominations from CV Team Section Members for the 2019 ACC Emerging Faculty Leadership Academy, taking place Dec. 2 – 4 at Heart House in Washington, DC.

Case Studies Offer Actionable Insights to Improve Clinician Well-Being

August 1, 2019

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Clinicians of all kinds, across all specialties and care settings, are experiencing alarming rates of burnout.

New Legislation Proposes Expanded Access to Cardiovascular Rehab Services

July 25, 2019

Health Policy

New legislation introduced yesterday in Congress – a result of joint efforts between the ACC, the American Heart Association, and others – will take an important step towards addressing heart disease in the United States.

Check Out the July Issue of Cardiology; Your Member Magazine

July 23, 2019

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Cardiology is the ACC's flagship member magazine — your member magazine — providing cardiovascular professionals with a comprehensive source for clinical and professional news. Find links to all of the July issue's articles and share on social media!

Journal Scan | Motivational Counseling Improves Sedentary Behaviors and Quality of Life in Women With Metabolic Syndrome

July 23, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This study demonstrated positive effects of motivational counseling on reducing sedentary behavior and depression, as well as an improvement in health-related quality of life scores in Taiwanese women with metabolic syndrome.

JACC Leadership Page: Pharmacists and Cardiologists in the ACC

July 22, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

In a new Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Richard J. Kovacs, MD, FACC, president of the ACC; Kim K. Birtcher, MS, PharmD, AACC, ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines member; and James E. Tisdale, PharmD, FACC, ACC Electrophysiology Section Leadership Council member, reflect on the past, present and future of pharmacist involvement in the ACC and in cardiology.

Attend the CV Team and CV Administrators Legislative Conference Pre-Session

July 22, 2019

Save the Date

Are you attending ACC's 2019 Legislative Conference? Then join the CV Team and CV Administrators Legislative Conference Pre-Session, taking place Sunday, Nov. 3 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. ET at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Regency Ballroom C.

Journal Scan | Rivaroxaban in PAD

July 19, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This brief article reviews a secondary analysis of the COMPASS (Cardiovascular Outcomes for People Using Anticoagulation Strategies) trial in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) treated with rivaroxaban and/or aspirin. The review suggests that treatment with rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily with aspirin 100 mg daily may represent a new and effective treatment for PAD.

Journal Scan | Current Trends in Cholesterol Levels in Adults With ASCVD

July 19, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This study is a statistical analysis of blood lipid levels over a 17-year period (1999-2016) in adults with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

ACC Oregon Cardiovascular Symposium

July 11, 2019   |   Alan Morasch, CAE

Feature Article

The 16th Annual ACC Oregon Cardiovascular Symposium, held in Portland, OR, was a resounding success. The CV Team was well-represented with 146 of the total 227 registrants.

Aspirin Therapy in Primary Prevention of ASCVD Infographic Now Available

July 3, 2019

Quick Reads and Recommendations

The use of aspirin in primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) has faced increasing controversy. To address this concern, the College created an infographic to explain a recently-published four-trial series evaluating the use of aspirin therapy in the primary prevention of ASCVD.

JACC: Case Reports First Issue Now Live

June 20, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

The first issue of JACC: Case Reports – the newest JACC Journal – is now live.

Journal Scan | Inflammation and Its Associations and Influences in a Healthy Population

June 18, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Biomarkers of inflammation (such as C-reactive protein), low cardiorespiratory fitness (peak oxygen consumption), and poor endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation) are all associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk and vascular mortality and other cardiovascular risk factors such as metabolic syndrome, but their interdependence has not been established in a healthy population.

Journal Scan | Trends of Pulmonary Catheterization in HF

June 13, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This purpose of this study was to determine if invasive monitoring would improve outcomes in patients with heart failure who were in cardiogenic shock.

Apply For Member Section Travel Award to ACC's 2019 Legislative Conference

June 13, 2019

Announcements

The ACC has made a select number of travel awards available to cover expenses for members to travel to ACC's 2019 Legislative Conference, Nov. 3 – 5, in Washington, DC.

ACC Rhode Island Chapter CV Team Meeting

June 13, 2019

On May 10, the ACC Rhode Island Chapter hosted its second annual cardiovascular team conference entitled, "Advanced Cardiology for the Cardiovascular Team." The program was jointly provided with the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and scheduled to coincide with Nurses Appreciation Week. For the second consecutive year, this conference was sold out.

CPR and AED Awareness Education in Middle Schools

June 13, 2019

Feature Article

With the rise in pediatric cardiac arrest cases across the country in recent years, CPR awareness and early implementation training is an essential component for best outcomes. Numerous efforts have been made across the U.S. to place automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools where first responders, including fellow students, can save precious minutes by executing basic life support (BLS) skills (CPR and AED) before emergency medical services arrive to provide advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) measures.

The Leadless Pacemaker

June 11, 2019

Featured Key Points to Remember

The technology of the leadless pacemaker and its advantages, risks, and promise are explained in this review of the innovative device.

Postcatheterization Femoral Pseudoaneurysms

June 4, 2019

Featured Key Points to Remember

This review describes the assessment and management of postcatheterization femoral artery pseudoaneurysms and techniques for ultrasound-guided thrombin injection and ultrasound-guided pseudoaneurysm compression.

JACC Leadership Page: ACC.19, Primary Prevention and Elizabeth Kovacs

May 30, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

In a new Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, ACC President Richard J. Kovacs, MD, FACC, reflects on ACC.19; the new Primary Prevention Guideline; and his mother, Elizabeth M. Kovacs, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 99.

Recorded Webinar: How to Write a Case Report

May 23, 2019

Featured Webinar

JACC: Case Reports Editor-in-Chief Julia Grapsa, MD, PhD, FACC, and Associate Editor Mary Norine Walsh, MD, MACC, have recorded an informative webinar on how clinicians and members of the care team can develop a high-quality case report submission.

Journal Scan | Morning Versus Evening Aerobic Training Effects on BP in Treated HTN

May 16, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

The hypotensive effect of aerobic training, due largely to an autonomic-modulated reduction in systemic vascular resistance, is well-established and appears to be additive to antihypertensive medications in hypertensive people. Multiple factors that enhance (e.g., weight loss) or diminish (e.g., genetics) this effect have been identified; however, it is unclear if time of day for aerobic training impacts its hypotensive effects.

Journal Scan | Risk Stratification Post-MI With Preserved EF

May 16, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

The PRESERVE-EF (Risk Stratification in Patients With Preserved Ejection Fraction) study evaluated a protocol for identifying patients with ejection fraction ≥40% post-myocardial infarction who might benefit from implantable cardioverter-defibrillator due to a high risk of sudden cardiac death.

Call For Nominations: ACC Vice President and Trustees

May 9, 2019

Announcements

Submit your recommendations to ACC's Nominating Committee for ACC vice president and Trustees by July 1.

CV Team Members: Join ACC's New Online Community

May 9, 2019

Announcements

Unlock the power of your ACC network with ACC Member Hub, designed to help you connect, collaborate and create.

Journal Scan | Association of CVD With Respiratory Disease

May 2, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This study examines the independent association of specific cardiovascular diseases with respiratory diseases and their impact on all-cause mortality.

The ACC Celebrates Nurses in May

May 2, 2019

Announcements

This May, the ACC is celebrating the important role nurses play in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health with a special membership discount.

Journal Scan | Increased Mortality in Patients With HF Sedentary Lifestyles

April 25, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Compared with urban dwellers, rural community dwellers living with heart failure (HF) face higher rates of health disparities in terms of being uninsured and having poor access to medical providers, especially specialists, and tend to have lower socioeconomic status. Although the influence of demographic and clinical factors on high-impact HF outcomes such as death and rehospitalization was identified in the literature, little is known about the influence of lifestyle variables, and sedentary lifestyle in particular, among rural dwellers with HF.

Journal Scan | Secondary Prevention Medication Use and Outcomes in Frail Older Adults After AMI

April 25, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This study evaluates the increased use of guideline-recommended therapy and the effect on mortality, rehospitalization, and function decline in long-stay nursing home patients who are post acute myocardial infarction.

Register For ACC's Core Curriculum For the CV Clinician Course

April 18, 2019

Educational Opportunities

Are you a cardiovascular clinician early in your career? If so, do not miss ACC's Core Curriculum for the Cardiovascular Clinician course, October 2 – 5, at Heart House in Washington, DC.

Learn How to Prevent CVD For Your Patients at ACC's CV Health Promotion Course

April 11, 2019

Upcoming Event

Attend ACC's Cardiovascular Health Promotion course, taking place May 30 – June 1 in Washington, DC, and get the answers you need to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Patient Safety Heroes

April 11, 2019   |   Jill M Gall, BS

Feature Article

In 2018, Indiana University Health launched a Patient Safety Hero Program to recognize caregivers for creating a positive patient safety culture.

Newest JACC Journal Provides Publication Vehicle For CV Care Team

April 4, 2019

Announcements

Researchers, early career cardiologists and members of the cardiovascular care team have a new publication vehicle for case reports, imaging vignettes, global health reports and voices in cardiology centered on clinical problem solving.

CardioSmart Primary Prevention Guideline Patient Resources

April 2, 2019

The CardioSmart team has created several patient resources to help patients understand the new ACC and American Heart Association primary prevention guideline

Statin Drug Interactions With Immunosuppressants Infographic Now Available

April 2, 2019

Statin-related myopathy is dose related, occurring at rates of up to 25 percent. 

ACC/AHA Primary Prevention Guideline Provides Playbook For Managing CV Risk Factors

March 18, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

The new ACC and American Heart Association (AHA) primary prevention guideline provides a comprehensive roadmap of strategies that can be used and tailored to help prevent or slow the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

JACC International: 10-Year HF Outcomes From Nurse-Driven Clinics in Rural Sub-Saharan Africa

March 6, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

Nurse-led delivery care models may have the potential to address the significant burden of heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa, according to a study published Feb. 25 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Journal Scan | CV Risk Reduction by Pharmacists at the Workplace

March 1, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This single-center study measures the impact of a pharmacist-driven workplace program of cardiovascular (CV) risk reduction in a moderate- to high-CV risk group of subjects over a 12-month period of time.

Webinar on Keys to Optimizing a TAVR Program: The Patient and Provider Perspective

February 20, 2019

Featured Webinar

Join the ACC Interventional Council's Structural Heart Disease Work Group for a webinar, Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. ET, on lessons learned from established TAVR programs.

Key Points | AHA 2019 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics

February 20, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

The American Heart Association, in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health and other government agencies, annually compiles into a single document the most up-to-date statistics regarding heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors. This statistical update presents the latest data on clinical heart and circulatory diseases and associated outcomes, including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs.

New Case Series on Improving Understanding and Recognition of Cardiac Syncope

February 15, 2019

Educational Opportunities

Check out ACC's brand-new case series on improving understanding and recognition of cardiac syncope on ACC.org.

Journal Scan | BP Response During Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing in HF

February 12, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Measurements during cardiopulmonary exercise testing have well-established prognostic value for patients with advanced heart failure (HF). However, less is known about the predictive value of hemodynamic responses to cardiopulmonary exercise testing in advanced HF, such as changes in blood pressure.

ACC Celebrates Cardiac Rehab Specialists

February 8, 2019

Feature Article

Throughout February, cardiac rehabilitation professionals who join the College as Associates of the ACC or CV Team members can save 30 percent or more on their first year of membership.

Call For Submissions: Structural Heart Case Presentations at ACC.19

February 8, 2019

ACC20WCC

Submit a case presentation highlighting the work of the structural heart multidisciplinary team and get the chance to be featured at the inaugural Open House of the ACC CV Team Section Structural Heart Team Work Group at ACC.19!

Subscribe to ACC Update and Receive the Latest CV Team Content

February 8, 2019

Announcements

Are you subscribed to the ACC Update newsletter? Starting this month, on the second Friday of every month, ACC Update will provide a segmented, personalized newsletter with the CV Team-focused information you've come to expect, including member articles, upcoming events, clinical content, apps and tools, and more.

CV Team Physician Assistants Committee Co-Chairs Address Role of PAs in CV Care

February 7, 2019

Feature Article

A recent article published in the American Academy of PAs features ACC CV Team Physician Assistants Committee Co-Chairs Disty Pearson, PA-C, and Viet Le, MPAS, PA-C.

ACC Washington State Chapter Meeting

February 7, 2019

ACC Chapters

In November 2018, the annual ACC Washington State Chapter meeting took place at the Bellevue Marriott Hotel in Bellevue, WA.

Journal Scan | Impact of Early Follow-Up on Mortality and Readmissions After Emergency Care of HF Cohort

February 5, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Each year, over 1 million patients with heart failure (HF) present to the emergency department and are often treated with diuretic therapy and discharged. Optimal timing of physician follow-up after an emergency department visit for HF is unclear, and investigators examined outcomes (i.e., hospital readmission and death) of early and late follow-up among patients with a primary diagnosis of HF who were treated and discharged from the emergency department.

Acknowledge Cardiac Rehab Awareness Week During Heart Month

February 1, 2019

Save the Date

Join the ACC in recognizing Cardiac Rehab Awareness Week from Feb. 10 – 16 as part of American Heart Month.

Society Presidents Offer Guidance on MOC in 2019 and Beyond

January 31, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

ACC President C. Michael Valentine, MD, FACC; SCAI President David A. Cox, MD, MSCAI, FACC; HRS President Thomas F. Deering, MD, FHRS, FACC; and HFSA President Randall C. Starling, MD, FACC, offer guidance to cardiovascular professionals seeking to navigate Maintenance of Certification (MOC) in 2019 and beyond as part of a joint Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Network With Colleagues at the ACC.19 All-Section Reception

January 24, 2019

ACC20WCC

Join us at the ACC.19 All-Section Reception, March 17, from 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, Grand Ballroom A.

CV Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.19

January 21, 2019

ACC20WCC

Network with nurses, PAs, clinical pharmacists, cardiac rehab professionals and other members of the cardiovascular team at ACC.19 during the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception, taking place Saturday, March 16, from 5 – 7:30 p.m. CT.

CV Team Newsletter: New Day, New Look, Same Content

January 9, 2019

Announcements

Beginning in February, look out for a CV Team version of the ACC Update newsletter the second Friday of every month.

Save the Date: CV Team Events at ACC.19

January 9, 2019

Announcements

ACC.19, which takes place March 16 – 18 in New Orleans, LA, offers CV Team professionals numerous opportunities to connect with peers, exchange ideas and gain knowledge.

Workforce Wellness, Leadership Training and More at CV Summit 2019

January 9, 2019

Announcements

ACC's Cardiovascular Summit – taking place Feb. 14 – 16 in Orlando, FL – offers training across many nonclinical competencies with the goal of helping cardiovascular professionals survive and thrive in today’s health care environment.

Interview With Jean C. McSweeney, PhD, RN

January 8, 2019

Feature Interview

This month's ACC CV Team Newsletter features an interview with Jean C. McSweeney, PhD, RN, associate dean for research at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, AR.

Self-Compassion Mantra to Ease Stress

January 8, 2019

Feature Article

The acute and prolonged stress of adverse events has been found to have undisputed negative effects on the heart and longevity. Stress-induced compassion fatigue is also increasingly blamed for the premature end to productive careers.

Last Call For Applicants: Editors-in-Chief For Two New JACC Journals

January 8, 2019

Announcements

Individuals interested in applying for one of two new JACC Journal Editor-in-Chief positions must submit applications by Tuesday, Jan. 15.

Journal Scan | Additive Effect of Adherence to Multiple Healthy Behaviors on Subclinical Atherosclerosis

December 21, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

This study demonstrates that adherence to more than one healthy lifestyle behavior has an additive positive effect on subclinical atherosclerosis. This has implications for public health education to reduce cardiovascular disease burden in a population by targeting multiple healthy behaviors in public health campaigns.

Journal Scan | Reducing Inflammation to Reduce Atherothrombotic Risk

December 18, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

Clinical approaches to assessing and reducing inflammation are reviewed in light of findings from CANTOS (Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcomes Study), a secondary prevention trial.

Meet Your 2018 CME Requirements With JACC Journals

December 18, 2018

Announcements

Take advantage of free, online certified educational activities to fulfill your 2018 CME requirements and earn MOC credit at the same time!

Last Call For PharmD and PA ACC Leadership Opportunity Applications

December 17, 2018

Announcements

The ACC.org editorial board is looking for two team members – one PharmD candidate and one PA candidate – to join the certified e-learning team to expand educational offerings for PharmDs and PAs.

Journal Scan | Prognostic Impact of PH After TAVR

December 13, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

Pulmonary hypertension in patients with severe aortic stenosis who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement can be reversed with an improvement in overall survival.

Why I’m Grateful For the CV Team Section

December 4, 2018

Feature Article

In a recent Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Andrew P. Miller, MD, FACC; Eileen M. Handberg, PhD, ARNP, FACC; and George P. Rodgers, MD, FACC, discuss how expanding the College's membership in 2003 recognized cardiovascular medicine as a team sport.

Professional Growth and Development Achieved Through State Liaison Experience

December 4, 2018

Feature Article

I became involved with ACC CV Team after a physician approached me to consider becoming state liaison for the ACC Indiana Chapter. Initially, I was overwhelmed and hesitant to add another professional responsibility on to my plate, especially one that was largely unknown to me.

Latest Issue of Cardiology: Gestational Disorders as an Emerging Risk Factor For CVD

December 4, 2018

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

In the latest issues of Cardiology, deep-dive into the emerging risk factors of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia.

Call For Applications For PharmD, PA ACC.org E-Learning Editors

December 4, 2018

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The ACC.org editorial board is looking for two team members – one PharmD candidate and one PA candidate – to join the certified e-learning team to expand educational offerings for PharmDs and PAs.

ACC Seeking Editor-in-Chief For New JACC: Case Reports Journal

November 19, 2018

JACC Family of Journals

The ACC is seeking applications for editor-in-chief of its new, online, open-access JACC: Case Reports journal launching in Spring 2019.

DEADLINE EXTENDED: Showcase Your QI Best Practices at ACC's Cardiovascular Summit

November 16, 2018

Upcoming Event

The deadline to submit abstracts for ACC's Cardiovascular Summit has been extended to Monday, Nov. 26.

Valentin Fuster and Expert Panelists Break Down the Hottest Trials From AHA 2018

November 16, 2018

JACC Family of Journals

In this deep-dive video discussion, Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, MACC; Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC; Anne B. Curtis, MD, FACC; Peter Libby, MD, FACC; and Marc Ruel, MD, MPH, share their perspectives on the most significant science released during AHA.18.

October’s PA and Pharmacist Appreciation Campaign

November 9, 2018

Quick Reads and Recommendations

The month of October gave the ACC the opportunity to celebrate the important contributions of PAs and pharmacists to transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health. As a result of the recruitment campaign the College ran during the month, 37 pharmacists and 39 PAs joined as members.

Earn CNE Credit With ACC’s Certified Patient Cases

November 9, 2018

Educational Opportunities

Did you know that several of ACC's Certified Patient Cases offer CNE credit at no cost? These challenging cases on a wide variety of important topics range from cardio-oncology and valvular heart disease, to hypertension and arrhythmias.

Heart Failure Heath Literacy Workshop

November 6, 2018

Feature Article

Jessica Patel, PharmD, a medical science liaison for Novartis Pharmaceuticals, and Jennifer Fox, CRNP, heart failure nurse practitioner for Lankenau Medical Center, recently joined together to host a Heart Failure Health Literacy Workshop for Main Line Health Nurses and Advanced Practitioners.

Highlights From ACC’s 2018 Legislative Conference

November 6, 2018

Feature Article

ACC's 2018 Legislative Conference recently took place in Washington, DC. It was the largest legislative conference to date with more than 470 attendees, 70 of which were ACC CV Team Section members.

Acknowledge National Hospice and Palliative Care Month This November

November 1, 2018

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Join the ACC in recognizing National Hospice and Palliative Care Month this November to raise awareness about how important hospice and palliative care is to all ages.

Earn CNE Credit With ACC's Certified Patient Cases

October 30, 2018

Educational Opportunities

The ACC continues to set the standards for lifelong learning for the entire cardiovascular care team. Did you know that several of ACC's Certified Patient Cases offer CNE credit at no cost?

Journal Scan | Higher Incidence of Ischemic Stroke With NOACs

October 26, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

The incidence of acute ischemic stroke and hemorrhage was determined retrospectively from an electronic database of >125,000 patients with atrial fibrillation on home novel oral anticoagulants or warfarin. The results seemed to contradict several recent studies.

Journal Scan | NSAID Use for Musculoskeletal Disorder in Patients With HTN, HF, or CKD

October 16, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

It is recommended to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with hypertension, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease. This trial describes frequency of NSAID prescribing in these populations and looks to determine if there are short-term safety-related outcomes.

ACC Celebrates PAs and PharmDs in October

October 15, 2018

Announcements

October marks both American Pharmacists Month and National PA Week, and the ACC is celebrating the work PharmDs and PAs do through discounts on membership and educational products. Nonmember PAs and clinical pharmacists can save more than 35 percent on 2019 dues by joining the ACC in October using the code Thanks2018. Encourage your nonmember colleagues to visit ACC.org/Thanks2018 and get started on their application. (They will use the promo code on the payment screen.)

DOAC Dosing For AFib Infographic Now Available

October 15, 2018

Featured Infographic

Inappropriate dosing of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) is not uncommon in treating patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib). To that end, the College has created an infographic to provide information on how clinicians should appropriately dose DOACs.

CV Team Member Spotlight: Holly Cook, BSN, RN-BC

October 2, 2018

Member Profile

Each month, the CV Team Section newsletter highlights the achievements of one CV Team member. This month features Holly Cook, BSN, RN-BC, manager of the cardiovascular level one emergency programs and chest pain center coordinator at the Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, IN.

WA State Eastside CVT Meeting

October 2, 2018

Feature Article

The annual Washington State Eastside ACC CV Team Dinner was held on Sept. 5, in Spokane, WA, and was a wonderful gathering of registered nurses (RNs), advanced practice registered nurses (ARNPs), physician assistants and a few cardiologists. There were more than 45 attendees and 12 vendors who enjoyed an evening of networking, education, and delicious food and drink.

CVD and the Coloring of America

October 2, 2018

Feature Article

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. and the world. Over 800,000 Americans die annually of cardiovascular disease, which equals to approximately one of every three deaths.

Journal Scan | Impact of Expanded Patient Characteristics on Hospital Readmission Rates Used for Pay for Performance

October 2, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

Pay-for-performance programs use a limited set of patient variables for assessing hospital readmissions risk. Wide variations in hospital readmission rates might be more fully explained by clinical and social patient characteristics currently not used in pay-for-performance models.

Journal Scan | Burnout and Career Choice Regret Among US Resident Physicians

October 1, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

This survey assessed prevalence of burnout symptoms, career choice regret, and specialty choice regret in a national study of second year US resident physicians and explored factors associated with each.

Journal Scan | Predictors of Hospice for Patients With HF and Health Care Use

October 1, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

Patients with advanced heart failure who enrolled in hospice used less healthcare services, lived longer, and were less likely to die in the hospital.

Cardiovascular Team Section | The September Issue of Cardiology, YOUR Member Magazine, is Live! Read it All Online!

September 21, 2018

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

The September 2018 issue of Cardiology, YOUR member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

ACC Members, ACC.19 Registration is Now Open!

September 12, 2018

ACC20WCC

ACC.19 registration is NOW OPEN exclusively for ACC members. Nonmember registration will open Wednesday, Sept. 26. Register early for the lowest rates and best selection of hotel rooms!

JACC CV Health Promotion Series Address Top 8 Risk Factors

September 7, 2018

JACC Family of Journals

A series of eight state-of-the-art reviews is now publishing in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC). One review is publishing each week, examining the top risk factors affecting the cardiovascular health of patients: diet, tobacco, lipid control/cholesterol, blood pressure, psychological health, weight, physical activity and blood sugar.

Feature | Celebrating Success: Idaho Requires Newborn CCHD Screening Using Pulse Oximetry

September 4, 2018   |   Lisa A Hom, RN

Feature Article

The ACC and other advocates celebrated a major victory for infants born with critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) with the adoption of IDAPA 10.02.12, a rule that adds CCHD screening to the uniform screening panel in Idaho. After successfully passing through several Senate committee hearings and closing the Idaho legislative session on March 31, this rule became effective in Idaho on July 1.

Feature | Don't Go Breaking My Heart: Pharmacy Practice Models For CVD Prevention Programs

September 4, 2018   |   Katie Buehler Tellor, PharmD, FACC

Feature Article

A multidisciplinary team approach has long been advocated as a model to provide the best patient care. The Best Practices for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Programs: A Guide to Effective Health Care System Interventions and Community Programs Linked to Clinical Services, a publication by the Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), further highlights a team-based care model for prevention strategies.

Upcoming Event | Recognize World Heart Day on Sept. 29

September 4, 2018   |   Sharon M. Morgan, NP, AACC

Upcoming Event

World Heart Day is an international campaign held every year on Sept. 29 to inform people about cardiovascular disease — the biggest cause of death — and promote preventive measures to reduce the risk. The first World Heart Day was celebrated in 2000 as a joint initiative between the World Heart Foundation and World Health Organization. It is the world’s largest platform for raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke.

Latest Issue of Cardiology: Dog Days of August; Impact of AFib; Diabetes and CVD; More

August 27, 2018

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Learn more about articles from the August issue of Cardiology magazine, YOUR member magazine! View the “Dog Days of August” photo gallery featuring cardiovascular professionals and their dogs from around the world.

Journal Scan | Present Status of Brugada Syndrome

August 22, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

This Journal of the American College of Cardiology state-of-the-art review of Brugada syndrome conveys a comprehensive update and overall perspective on this rare but significant cause of sudden cardiac death.

Journal Scan | Sedentary Behaviors in Youth and Prevention and Management of Childhood Obesity

August 22, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

This American Heart Association Scientific Statement provides a contemporary overview of research and recommendations regarding youth sedentary behavior and its impact on obesity and cardiometabolic health in the modern digital age.

Team-Based Compensation in a Value World

August 22, 2018   |   Cathleen Biga, MSN, FACC

Feature Article

There is nothing that strikes fear in an administrator’s heart more than their dyad partner saying, "Let’s add a compensation model review for our next group meeting!" Whether you work in a hospital-employed setting, academia, or private practice, an equitable and sustainable compensation plan is paramount to a successful work environment.

Save the Date: Join ACC’s Next Twitter Journal Club

August 18, 2018

Save the Date

Save the date for the next ACC Twitter Journal Club on Wednesday, Sept. 12, 3 - 4 p.m. ET! ACC Journal Club faculty members Dipti Itchhaporia, MD, FACC, and John Ryan, MD, FACC, will be joined by Annabelle Volgman, MD, FACC, ACC, ACC Cardiovascular Disease in Women committee member; Andrew Freeman, MD, FACC, ACC Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Section council member; and Dave Dixon, PharmD, FACC, ACC Diabetes and Cardiometabolic Disorder sub-section member, to discuss some of the hottest topics from ESC Congress 2018 in Munich.

Cardiovascular Team Section | The August Issue of Cardiology, YOUR Member Magazine, is Live! Read it All Online!

August 16, 2018

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

The August 2018 issue of Cardiology, YOUR member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

ACC Rhode Island Chapter CV Team Update

July 31, 2018

The ACC Rhode Island Chapter recently held its first ever CV Team Section educational conference at the Marriott Hotel in Providence, RI. Leanne M. Burke, MSN, APRN-CNP, ANP-BC, AACC, ACC Rhode Island Chapter CV Team representative, and David M. Donaldson, MD, FACC, ACC Rhode Island Chapter governor, organized this educational conference specifically for the CV Team Section members.

Health Care Providers and Social Media

July 31, 2018

It has been shown that networking through social media benefits the professional careers of health care providers. While professionals in specialties such as cardiology may have limited peer support at their institutions, Twitter and Facebook can provide near-instantaneous support from professionals with similar backgrounds miles away. As support is readily available from online communities that face common problems, colleagues are able to share their experiences and help brainstorm solutions to workplace problems that improve patient outcomes.

Member Spotlight: Heather M. Ross, DNP, PhD

July 31, 2018

Heather M. Ross, DNP, PhD, chair of the ACC CV Team Advocacy Committee, is running for U.S. Congress in Arizona’s 6th district. Combining her passion for cardiology and the personal conviction that nurses have a responsibility to participate in professional organizations, Ross was one of the first 100 nurses to join the ACC. She urges nurses to not be afraid to start with local chapter involvement, volunteer for state and national committees or work forces, and pursue political health care activities.

Latest Issue of Cardiology: Obesity and CVD; PA Workface Stats; More

July 30, 2018

The latest issue of Cardiology looks at the impact of obesity on cardiovascular disease and provides tips for talking with patients.

ACC and ASHP Collaborate on Cardiology Pharmacy Exam Preparation Tools

July 30, 2018

The College has partnered with the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) to produce study tools for the Board of Pharmacy Specialties Cardiology Pharmacy Specialty Certification Examination that will debut Fall 2018.

Journal Scan | EHR-Based and Nurse-Led Medication Support in HTN

July 26, 2018

NAMES (Northwestern University and Access Community Health Network Medication Education Study) was designed to test the effectiveness of an electronic health record-based medication management tool with and without nurse-led education in improving blood pressure and medication management in hypertensive patients.

Journal Scan | Effect of Beta-Blocker Treatment on V O2peak in Patients With HF

July 26, 2018

Beta-blocker treatment of chronic heart failure (HF) has been shown to improve survival and reduce HF-related hospitalizations. Beta-adrenergic blockade blunts peak heart rate; however, less is known about the effects of prolonged beta-blocker treatment on peak oxygen consumption, an important functional index of exercise capacity, in patients with HF.

Recap of ACC's Advancing Cardiovascular Care of the Oncology Patient Meeting

July 10, 2018

The ACC Cardio-Oncology Section recently hosted its second annual Advancing Cardiovascular Care of the Oncology Patient meeting in Washington, DC. Hosted by Ana Barac, MD, PhD, FACC, and Bonnie Ky, MD, FACC, this course offered a general overview of the field of cardio-oncology care, with specific focus on current research and practical implications for clinicians.

The 47th Society of Critical Care Medicine Annual Congress

July 10, 2018

The 2018 Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Annual Congress was recently held in San Antonio, TX, with over 6,000 critical care practitioners from around the world who presented research, attended educational sessions and used the opportunity to network.

ACC Ohio Chapter CV Team Update

July 10, 2018

The ACC Ohio CV Team Council held a successful 11th annual CV Team Update as part of the ACC Ohio Chapter Spring Summit in Cleveland.

Journal Scan | Coronary CTA Versus Stress Echocardiography in Acute Chest Pain

June 27, 2018

This single-center comparative effectiveness trial provides a direct head-to-head comparison of coronary computed tomography angiography versus stress echocardiography in low- to intermediate-risk patients with chest pain in the emergency department on measures of clinical efficiency, safety, and resource utilization.

Journal Scan | Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Cardiogenic Shock

June 11, 2018

This state-of-the-art review describes technical aspects, indications, outcomes, management, weaning parameters, complications, and costs of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in cardiogenic shock.

Journal Scan | Home-Time After Discharge Among Patients Hospitalized With HF

June 8, 2018

Home-time, or the time spent out of a health care institution, was studied to among patients with heart failure. The researchers showed that more time outside of a health care institution, including a skilled nursing facility, correlated to time-to-event mortality and hospitalization outcomes.

ACC Maryland CV Team Spring Networking Event

June 6, 2018

The Maryland CV Team Leadership Council recently welcomed a diverse group of professionals for the spring networking event at the Blue Hill Tavern in Baltimore.

Indiana's CV Symposium

June 6, 2018

The Methodist Hospitals in Gary and Merrillville, Indiana held a terrific Cardiovascular Symposium this year. More than 120 members and clinicians from the Chicago-area and Northwest Indiana attended this program in Schererville, Indiana.

Journal Scan | Vitamins and Minerals for CVD

May 30, 2018

Investigators reviewed evidence for vitamin and mineral supplementation in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease since 2012. The meta-analysis utilized studies prior to and including the US Preventive Services Task Force report, which published evidence and recommendations in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

Journal Scan | CV Risk in Patients With FH on Optimal Therapy

May 29, 2018

Patients with familial hypercholesterolemia can develop cardiovascular (CV) events even when treated with stable lipid-lowering therapy. This study analyzes which patient factors and CV risk factors are associated with higher CV risk despite optimal or maximum tolerated lipid-lowering therapy.

Journal Scan | Sedentary Aging and Exercise Effects on LV Function

May 22, 2018

Left ventricular (LV) diastolic function declines with sedentary aging but is preserved by long-term endurance exercise; however, little is known about the effects of sedentary aging and lifelong exercise training on LV systolic function.

Journal Scan | Depression in Patients With CAD

May 21, 2018

Depression is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), but effective treatment of depression can improve cardiac outcomes, mortality, and quality of life. This article reviews current recommendations for the screening, diagnosis, and management of depression in patients with CAD.

Safe Prescribing and Use of Sacubitril/Valsartan Infographic Now Available

May 7, 2018

When prescribing medication, there are a number of considerations to take into account. To that end, Vicki L. Groo, PharmD, along with the CV Team Writing Group, has created an infographic to provide information for safe prescribing and use of Sacubitril/Valsartan (Entresto).

ACC PINNACLE Advance Care Planning Toolkit Now Available

May 7, 2018

The ACC recently launched the PINNACLE Advance Care Planning Toolkit to help providers understand, integrate and document advance care planning into their routine practice. 

CV Team Travel Awards to the 2018 Legislative Conference

May 7, 2018

The ACC has a limited number of travel awards available to cover expenses for CV Team members to travel to the 2018 Legislative Conference, Sept. 30 – Oct. 2, in Washington, DC. The award provides reimbursement funding for airfare, lodging and other expenses up to $1,000 for travel to and from the conference.

CV Team Spotlight: Interview With New AACC Designees

May 2, 2018

This month, the CV Team Section is highlighting some of the newly designated Associates of the American College of Cardiology (AACCs).

The 4th Annual Southern California CV Team Symposium

April 4, 2018

The 4th Annual Southern California CV Team Symposium, held at the Marriott Resort and Spa in Newport Beach, CA, on Feb. 23, was a huge success with over 95 attendees.

Congratulations to the New AACCs and CV Team National Committee Appointees

April 4, 2018

The ACC congratulates all newly designated Associates of the American College of Cardiology (AACCs)!

"Roving Reporters" Share Their ACC.18 and NCDR.18 Experiences

April 4, 2018

The CV Team invited members attending ACC.18 and NCDR.18 to become "roving reporters" and share their meeting experiences.

Submit Session Suggestions For ACC.19

April 4, 2018

Do you have innovative ideas for potential sessions at ACC.19? CV Team members are encouraged to submit ideas, including relevant CV Team speakers and topics, that address needs assessment gaps.

Transcatheter Heart Valve Handbook: A Surgeons and Interventional Council Review

March 19, 2018

ACC’s Surgeons and Interventional Member Section Councils have created a transcatheter heart valve handbook to provide a single source of introductory information on aortic, mitral and pulmonary transcatheter valve technology, intended for residents and Fellows in Training in cardiovascular medicine and cardiothoracic surgery. 

2018 Careers in Heart Failure & Transplant Symposium

February 28, 2018

Please join us for this year's Careers in Heart Failure & Transplant Symposium during ACC.18. The event will take place on Saturday, March 10th, 2018 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando, Regency Ballroom Q at 4:30pm-6:00pm.

Journal Scan | Clinical Pharmacist Intervention and Risk of Readmission

February 8, 2018

On average, 45% of adverse drug reactions that lead to hospitalization are preventable. The transition from hospital to primary care settings may introduce errors in communication regarding patient medical treatment. Medication reviews led by pharmacists can provide some solutions to these issues.

Journal Scan | Male Marathoners and Coronary Artery Calcium

February 8, 2018

Many male marathon runners have elevated coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores despite high levels of physical activity, which raises concerns that extreme endurance exercise may lead to increased atherosclerosis in men. This study sets out to reexamine the data on 50 male marathon runners to determine the relationship between CAC scores and coronary artery disease risk factors.

Become a “Roving Reporter” and Share Your ACC.18 Experiences

February 7, 2018

ACC's 67th Annual Scientific Session and Expo (ACC.18) is one of the premier cardiology events. Unfortunately, not all members are able to attend, and sharing feedback on experiences can be extremely valuable for those members.

CV Team Member Spotlight: Nancy L. Lundy, NP, AACC

February 7, 2018

How did you get started in health care?
In 1983, my then 3-year-old daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. I spent many years after the diagnosis learning how to care for her and navigate through the health care industry.

Message From Deborah S. Croy, DNP, RN, ANP-BC, AACC

February 7, 2018

As my term as CV Team Communication Committee chair comes to a close, I wanted to share that it has been an honor to represent you all.

Journal Scan | Gender and Racial Differences in Surgical Outcomes in Patients With HF

January 30, 2018

Differences in type, etiology, and treatment of heart failure between men and women and among ethnic groups might affect non-cardiac surgical outcomes. Gender and ethnic differences in 30-day surgical morbidity and mortality outcomes were characterized and compared in adults with new and acute, worsening heart failure.

Journal Scan | Patient and Caregiver Shared HF Knowledge Affects Outcomes

January 23, 2018

Heart failure self-care education is recommended for family members and the patient. This study describes the characteristics for a successful dyad and the impact on self-care behaviors.

Cardiology Magazine Special Section | The Evolution of the Physician Assistant Workforce in Cardiology

January 22, 2018

Physician assistants (PAs) are health care professionals who are helping to address the growing need for high-quality cardiovascular health care providers in the U.S. As the PA profession marks its 50th anniversary, a new survey reveals that as the profession has matured, so has the role of PAs who work in cardiology. Conducted by the ACC's PA Work Group of the Cardiovascular Team Council, the survey provides important insights into the experience, scope of practice and services provided in cardiovascular practice, as well as opportunities to enhance professional membership. More work experience in cardiology and greater autonomy in providing cardiovascular care are two notable findings among the current generation of PAs.

Journal Scan | Childhood Adversity and Cardiometabolic Outcomes

January 22, 2018

This American Heart Association scientific statement summarizes the existing scientific literature on the impact of childhood and adolescent adversity on cardiometabolic health outcomes and suggests future directions for research and clinical interventions.

Call For Applications | Cardiovascular Team Writing Group Editorial Fellows For ACC.org/CVT

December 6, 2017

The ACC Cardiovascular Team Section is seeking 22 qualified, motivated individuals to serve as the 2018 – 2019 Cardiovascular Team Writing Group Editorial Fellows for the ACC.org webpage.

Meetings and Conferences | Hear From the Experts on the Hottest Trials From AHA 2017

November 22, 2017

In the latest ACC Cardiology Hour, Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, MACC, is joined by Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC; Rachel J. Lampert, MD, FACC; Prediman K. Shah, MD, MACC; and Chadwick W. Stouffer, MD, in a roundtable discussion of the hottest trials from AHA 2017 in Anaheim, CA. Among the trials discussed are DACAB, CANVAS, EXSCEL, POISE-2 and more.

Advocacy | Do Your Part

November 14, 2017

We are in a great time in health care; a time when individuals can share their voices, the voices of their patients and the needs of their practice. There are several ways to communicate ideas and concerns, and it begins with being aware of the ongoing problems.

Journal Scan | Drug-Coated Balloon for Femoropopliteal ISR

October 24, 2017

The IN.PACT Admiral (Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) paclitaxel-coated balloon was evaluated for safety and effectiveness in treatment of de novo in-stent restenosis of the femoral and popliteal arteries. The trial was one of several cohorts in the much larger multi-continent IN.PACT Global Study assessing the performance of the drug-coated balloon in femoropopliteal disease.

Journal Scan | ICU Triage in the Elderly

October 13, 2017

The ICE-CUBII (Impact on Mid-term Mortality of Guidelines for ICU Admission of Elderly Patients Arriving in Emergency Departments) cluster randomized trial in France evaluated whether systematic intensive care unit (ICU) triage in critically ill elderly patients would affect mortality at 6 months compared with usual practice. Secondary outcomes included in-hospital mortality, ICU admission rates, functional status, and quality of life at 6 months.

CV Team Perspectives | ACC’s 2017 Legislative Conference

October 4, 2017

Cardiovascular Team members had a strong presence at the ACC's recent 2017 Legislative Conference that took place Sept. 10 – 12 in Washington, DC. Several Cardiovascular Team members shared their personal thoughts and takeaways from this important educational and immersive event.

CV Team Spotlight | Chris Steelman, MS, RT(R)(CI), RCIS

October 4, 2017

Each month, the CV Team Section newsletter highlights the achievements of one CV Team member. This month features Chris Steelman, MS, RT (R)(CI), RCIS, program director at the School of Invasive Cardiovascular Technology at the Hoffman Heart and Vascular Institute of Connecticut in Hartford.

Journal Scan | Food Deserts and CV Risk

October 2, 2017

Although associations between access to healthy foods and cardiovascular (CV) disease are well-established, the influence on CV risk of convenient access to healthy foods over personal and geographic area income remains elusive. To address this gap, data analysis was done to identify associations between persons in low income living areas and/or low healthy food access and CV risk using novel biomarker indicators of CV disease risk.

Journal Scan | Safety of Simultaneous CABG and CEA Versus Isolated CABG

October 2, 2017

The CABACS (Coronary Artery Bypass graft surgery in patients with Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis) trial examined the outcomes of simultaneous coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with carotid endarterectomy versus CABG alone in patients needing coronary artery bypass surgery who also had asymptomatic, high-grade internal carotid artery stenosis.

Journal Scan | Benefits of CTCA Using 2016 NICE Guidelines

September 22, 2017

This study retrospectively assessed the relative benefits of coronary computed tomography angiography in an anginal cohort versus a non-anginal cohort from SCOT-HEART (Scottish Computed Tomography of the HEART Trail).

Get Involved | Apply for ACC’s Membership Committee by Sept. 22

September 12, 2017

In conjunction with the ACC Committee Nominations cycle, the College’s Membership Committee is now accepting applications through Sept. 22. The Membership Committee was established as part of the 2015 College’s governance transformation and serves as standing committee of the College, reporting directly to the Board of Trustees.

2017 Legislative Conference: Pre-Conference Highlights

September 6, 2017

The 2017 Legislative Conference is just around the corner. Don't miss a second of this fast-paced, educational, immersive event!

CV Team Members: Get Involved With the ACC

September 6, 2017

2018 ACC and NCDR Committee Nominations: Nominations for spots on ACC's major operating committees and NCDR subcommittees are open now until Friday, Sept. 22.

Career Development | Teaching Skills Workshop For CV Team Emerging Faculty

September 6, 2017

The ACC is now accepting nominations for the 2017 Teaching Skills Workshop for Emerging Faculty Course to be held at ACC's Heart House in Washington, DC, Dec. 11 – 13. The deadline for applications is Monday, Oct. 2.

Submit Your Science For the Young Investigator Awards

September 1, 2017

Apply for the chance to present your work at ACC.18 when you submit your research for the Young Investigator Awards Competition (YIA) by Sept. 11.

Membership Milestone For Cardiovascular Team

August 30, 2017

The ACC recently reached an important milestone: There are now over 5,000 Cardiovascular Team members in the College! Clinical guidelines, world-class education and networking opportunities are just some of the reasons these professionals have joined the ACC, but much of the credit goes to members like you, who have reached out to colleagues and friends to let them know about the benefits of ACC membership.

The August 2017 Issue of Cardiology, ACC's Flagship Member Magazine, is LIVE!

August 21, 2017

The August 2017 issue of Cardiology, ACC’s flagship member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

Journal Scan | Targeted Temperature Management for 24 vs. 48 Hours After OHCA

August 3, 2017

International guidelines recommend targeted temperature management for at least 24 hours at 33°C to 36°C in unconscious patients following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, but the optimal duration of targeted temperature management is unknown. This multicenter European randomized control trial assessed whether 48 hours of targeted temperature management results in improved neurologic outcome at 6 months compared with 24 hours of targeted temperature management.

Journal Scan | Effect of IV Iron on Exercise Capacity in Patients With Chronic HF and Iron Deficiency

August 3, 2017

Iron deficiency is common in patients with heart failure and associated with reduction in exercise capacity and poor outcomes. Patient functional status improved with intravenous ferric carboxymaltose compared with standard care.

CV Team Spotlight: Constance A. Adams, MS, RN, CCNS, CCRN

August 2, 2017

The CV Team Section newsletter highlights the achievements of one CV Team member. This month features Constance A. Adams, MS, RN, CCNS, CCRN, the clinical quality director for the Heart & Vascular Institute at Methodist Hospitals, Inc. in Gary, IN, who is actively involved with heart failure and chest pain programs.

HF in Northwest Indiana

August 2, 2017

Northwest Indiana is challenged with a disproportionate share of heart failure (HF) patients. HF is among the top diagnoses for admission and readmission, presenting the potential for huge financial penalties for hospitals.

The July 2017 Issue of Cardiology, ACC's Flagship Member Magazine, is LIVE!

July 20, 2017

The July 2017 issue of Cardiology, ACC’s flagship member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

Call For Applications: Annual Scientific Session Vice Chair

July 20, 2017

The ACC is seeking qualified candidates to serve as vice chair of the Annual Scientific Session for a two-year term of office for ACC.19 and ACC.20, moving on to assume another two-year term as chair of ACC.21 and ACC.22.

Journal Scan | Cognitive Impairment and HF

July 17, 2017

Cognitive impairment and dementia can impact treatment, adherence, and ultimately clinical outcomes. Meta-analysis of evidence until May 2015 was analyzed to determine prevalence, incidence, and relative risk for cognitive impairment in patients with heart failure.

Journal Scan | Outcomes for Cardioversion Performed by an Advanced Practice Provider

July 6, 2017

This study assessed the feasibility and quality outcomes of a series of 415 electrical cardioversion procedures performed autonomously by an advanced practice provider utilizing a guideline-directed protocol. Outcomes for both safety and efficacy were compared with those for 387 cardioversions performed by a medical doctor and were found to be equivalent.

Journal Scan | Statin Trials Support the 2013 ACC/AHA Cholesterol Guidelines

July 6, 2017

This study shows that seven high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) support statin efficacy in nearly all individuals with a Class I American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) indication for statin therapy for primary prevention. The HOPE-3 (Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation-3) trial provides missing RCT evidence to support the 2013 ACC/AHA guidelines on treatment of cholesterol.

Journal Scan | Vascular Function and Structure in Veteran Athletes After MI

July 6, 2017

Regular endurance exercise imparts cardioprotection through not only improvement of risk factors but also direct effects on arterial walls, which enhance vascular function. However, lifelong athletes are not immune to coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction (MI). Previous studies have demonstrated that post-MI patients experience impaired vascular function and structure compared with healthy peers; the authors wondered if post-MI lifelong athletes had superior vascular function and structure compared with their post-MI sedentary peers.

ACC Roundtable Explores How to Manage CVD Risk in Diabetes

July 5, 2017

I was honored along with several other cardiovascular team members to be invited to attend ACC's 2017 Managing CVD Risk in Diabetes Roundtable held on Tuesday, June 20 at ACC's Heart House in Washington, DC.

Learning to Optimize Quality: A Recap of NCDR.17

July 5, 2017

The energizing and ever-growing NCDR Annual Conference was held on March 13 – 15 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center located just outside Washington, D.C. and was attended by more than 1,600 health care professionals.

In Memoriam: Kay Blum, PhD, CRNP

June 30, 2017

It is with great sadness that I announce the loss of one of our ACC Cardiovascular Team leaders, professors and mentors, Kay Blum, PhD, CRNP. Dr. Blum was not only a role model to all Cardiovascular Team members, she was also my mentor, and as such, I would like to pay tribute to her life.

The June 2017 Issue of Cardiology, ACC's Flagship Member Magazine, is LIVE!

June 27, 2017

The June 2017 issue of Cardiology, ACC’s flagship member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

Journal Scan | Standard Versus Intensified Management of HF to Reduce Health Care Costs

June 27, 2017

This Australian study compares two outpatient management strategies after discharge for heart failure hospitalization: a targeted series of more intensive interventions based on risk profiling versus a standard intervention comprising nurse-led home visits.

JACC Leadership Page: What’s in a Name?

June 23, 2017

In a recent Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), ACC President Mary Norine Walsh, MD, FACC, discusses the shift from calling physicians “doctors” to “providers.”

Journal Scan | Prevalence of PAD Reduced With Increased Consumption of Fruits and Vegetables

June 9, 2017

This study of 3.7 million American adults evaluated the association between the prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and dietary intake of fruits and vegetables. The secondary analysis of clinical risk factors identified in whom the daily intake of ≥3 fruits and vegetables resulted in a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of PAD.

Journal Scan | Inpatient HF Discharge Volume Predicts Readmissions

May 24, 2017

Using a model of structure, process, and outcome, 30-day all-cause readmission correlated to unit discharge volume. Units with high discharge volumes and patient-to-nurse ratios greater than 4:1 had higher all-cause 30-day readmission rates than units with lower discharge volumes and patient-to-nurse ratios of less than 3:1.

Journal Scan | Drug-Drug Interactions With Statins and HIV Medications

May 18, 2017

These are 10 key points from a review that is intended to provide clinicians with a practical guide to managing drug-drug interactions between statins and human immunodeficiency virus medications.

Expanding the Traditional Patient Care Team Model

May 10, 2017

As patient care demands increase, so does the value of expanding the traditional patient-care team model. Our organization approaches cardiovascular quality improvements through a triad approach, including physician leadership, system cardiovascular quality data team and cardiovascular leadership from hospital operations.

Journal Scan | Long-Term Marathon Running Is Associated with Low Coronary Plaque Formation in Women

April 18, 2017

It is well-established that cardiovascular health and longevity are improved by 20-30 minutes of vigorous physical activity multiple times per week. However, more extreme endurance exercise may not impart similar enhanced health outcomes and may actually be detrimental to overall coronary artery health, as has been demonstrated in male marathon runners. This study investigates several indices of coronary artery disease in women who run marathons (extreme endurance exercise) compared with sedentary controls and compares the results to a companion study on male marathon runners.

Webinar: What Does the Move From Volume-to-Value Mean For Cardiac Rehab Programs?

April 6, 2017

Join the ACC at noon ET on April 20 to hear about the latest trends of value-based care and the role of cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) in an environment focused on the value of care from Tom Draper, MBA, and Todd Brown, MD, MSPH, president and president-elect, respectively, of the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

JACC Leadership Page: Team Up!

April 6, 2017

In a recent Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), new ACC President Mary Norine Walsh, MD, FACC, discusses the importance of team-based care and making sure the patient is a member of that team.

Journal Scan | The Future of Telehealth in HF

April 4, 2017

Ten key points to remember from the review “Moving Beyond the Walls of the Clinic: Opportunities and Challenges to the Future of Telehealth in Heart Failure,” which is intended to provide an overview of the opportunities and challenges of telehealth in heart failure.

This Saturday: All-Section Meeting & Reception at ACC.17

March 14, 2017

Attending ACC.17? Join us for the All-Section Meeting & Reception at ACC.17! The event happening THIS Saturday, March 18, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Marriott Marquis will give you a chance to learn more about what ACC's 19+ Member Sections are working to accomplish and to connect with members in your specialty or interest areas.

This Friday: CV Team Section Meeting and Reception

March 14, 2017

Connect with colleagues, put your questions to Section leadership and discover how you can get involved this Friday at the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception. RSVP now, and we'll see you from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Washington Marriott Marquis on Friday!

An Introduction to Telehealth

March 1, 2017

What is telehealth? Is it a modality that can be adapted in the cardiology practice?

Member Spotlight: June Hart Romeo, NP, PhD, FACC, AACC

March 1, 2017

June Hart Romeo, NP, PhD, FACC, AACC, is the program manager, supervisor and cardiac nurse practitioner for the new Cleveland Clinic Regional Heart Failure (HF) Clinic, as well as their cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation (rehab) programs.

The First APRN Cardiac Clinic in Arkansas

March 1, 2017

El Dorado, Arkansas is located more than 100 miles south of the capital city, Little Rock. This rural town is fortunate to have a lifelong resident serve as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) providing cardiac care to residents.

Cardiovascular Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.17

February 14, 2017

Join us from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 17 at the Washington Marriott Marquis for the Cardiovascular Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.17! Network with your peers, hear from Section leadership on accomplishments and initiatives, and learn about how you can get involved in the Section. RSVP here.

All-Section Meeting & Reception at ACC.17

February 14, 2017

Save the Date for the All-Section Meeting & Reception at ACC.17! Happening on Saturday, March 18, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Marriott Marquis, this event will give you a chance to learn more about what ACC’s 19+ Member Sections. Submit your RSVP to attend.

Journal Scan | Impact of Continuous-Flow LVAD Implantation on Glycemic Control

January 11, 2017

Journal Scan | The interplay between diabetes and heart failure (HF) is significant because HF is associated with increased insulin resistance, which has been shown to worsen myocardial function. Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) have been shown in small studies to improve glycemic control. This retrospective study sought to investigate the influence of LVAD implantation on glycemic control in a larger population with type 2 diabetes and advanced chronic HF.

Journal Scan | Intentional and Unintentional Medication Nonadherence in Adults With Chronic HF

January 11, 2017

Journal Scan | Medication nonadherence in adults with chronic heart failure is prevalent. Modifiable factors include misconceptions about heart failure, beliefs, concerns, and contextual factors.

A Day in the Life: Andrea Price, MS, RCIS, CCA

November 2, 2016

I work for a hospital system with 15 facilities throughout Indiana. The health care system is comprised of a conglomeration of both academic and community based hospitals along with out-patient diagnostic facilities.

CV Summit and Leadership Forum: Finance, Operations, Quality and Data

October 17, 2016

CV Management and CV Team Section members are invited to attend the Cardiovascular Summit & Leadership Forum, held Jan. 26 – 28, 2017, in Orlando, FL. The Summit will bring together an array of experts in the field of cardiology...

Pharmacologic and Device Therapy for Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

October 12, 2016

Journal Scan | This article lists 10 key points from a review that is intended to inform clinicians about the safety and efficacy of pharmacologic and device therapy for the management of peripartum cardiomyopathy.

CV Team Spotlight: William L. Baker Jr., PharmD, FACC

October 5, 2016

Each month, the Cardiovascular Team Section newsletter will highlight the achievements of one CV Team member. This month, we are featuring William L. Baker Jr., PharmD, FACC.

Palliative Care vs. Hospice Care For the CV Patient

October 5, 2016

It wasn’t too long ago that I equated consulting the palliative care team with consulting the hospice team. When a patient was not a candidate for a procedure, someone should have a ‘goals of care’ discussion including the possibility of hospice.

Clopidogrel Adherence

September 16, 2016

Journal Scan | This study sought to identify factors that predict medication adherence to clopidogrel.

Transition Needs of Adolescents With CHD and Their Parents

September 16, 2016

Journal Scan | Approximately 90% of children born with a heart defect will survive into adulthood. Their needs, and their parents’ needs, during transition are assessed in this study.

Family Functioning Impacts Effectiveness of Education Interventions to Reduce Dietary Sodium

September 15, 2016

Journal Scan | Patients with heart failure who have poorly functioning families are less likely to overestimate sodium intake and reduce sodium intake after heart failure teaching. Adding educational interventions to improve family functioning can improve family communication and patient outcomes.

High-Dose Unfractionated Heparin in Overweight and Obese Patients

September 14, 2016

Journal Scan | Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in overweight and obese patients presents several challenges due to potential changes in drug distribution and pharmacokinetics. Evidence to support the use of higher doses of anticoagulant therapies in the non-bariatric surgery population is lacking. This study sought to determine the safety and efficacy of high-dose unfractionated heparin in overweight and obese patients for prevention of venous thromboembolism.

Governance and the CV Team

July 6, 2016

The Spring issue of Cardiology magazine features an article written by Eileen M. Handberg, PhD, ARNP, FACC, examining the impacts on Cardiovascular Team (CV Team) members of ACC’s changes to the governance process. “First of all, [the changes] provides [the CV Team] an opportunity to have a bigger voice,” writes Handberg...

Journal Scan: Cost-Effectiveness of High-Dose Edoxaban

June 15, 2016

Journal Scan | Edoxaban is one of several direct oral anticoagulants recommended by current guidelines for stroke prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, yet a cost-effectiveness analysis from a U.S. perspective has not been performed. This study sought to determine the cost-effectiveness of high-dose edoxaban (60 mg daily) compared with adjusted-dose warfarin.

Journal Scan: Older Women With Controlled ISH: Exercise and Blood Pressure

June 15, 2016

Journal Scan | The benefits of regular exercise are well-documented, but cardiovascular responses during exercise may provide a challenge for patients with hypertension, even if well-controlled. Activities of daily living and recreation involve both dynamic and static exercises that elevate systolic blood pressure (dynamic and static) and diastolic blood pressure (static). The goal of this study was to evaluate blood pressure responses in older women with isolated systolic hypertension during dynamic and static exercise and compare the responses with those of healthy, age-matched, normotensive women.

Targeting Four Risk Factors May Help Reduce Premature Deaths From CVD

June 9, 2016

Aggressive strategies are needed to achieve targets set by the World Health Organization (WHO) to reduce the risk of premature non-communicable disease death by 25 percent by 2025. Notably, focusing on four main risk factors – high blood pressure, smoking, obesity and diabetes mellitus – may help meet this goal, according to a study published May 9 in Circulation.

A Day in the Life: Sandy Perlmutter, MSN, ARNP, AACC

June 1, 2016

I work for a 10-physician, four advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) cardiology practice owned by a smaller community hospital. My day is filled with cardiac patient care. One day I may be hospital-based, doing inpatient rounds, stress echocardiograms and discharges.

Advancements in Pacemaker Technology: The New Leadless Device

June 1, 2016

On April 6, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first leadless, transcatheter pacemaker system.

A Recap of NCDR.16

June 1, 2016

The NCDR.16 Annual Conference held in Chicago, IL, exceeded expectations and took those who attended to new levels.

ACC.16 Annual Convocation For Cardiovascular Team Members

May 4, 2016

ACC's Annual Scientific Session (ACC.16) ended with the honoring of new Fellows of the ACC (FACC), Associates of the ACC (AACC), and other distinguished members at the annual Convocation ceremony.

Journal Scan: Predicting HF Readmissions

May 2, 2016

Journal Scan | The authors retrospectively examined the records of randomly selected patients with a discharge diagnosis of heart failure who were either subsequently readmitted or not subsequently readmitted to identify risk factors for readmission.

Journal Scan: Assessing Readiness to Exercise After Cardiac Surgery

May 2, 2016

Journal Scan | The authors developed a survey to assess cardiac surgery patients’ readiness to exercise. The survey was developed using the Transtheoretical Model to help direct interventions to the patient’s stage of readiness.

Journal Scan: Assessing Health Literacy in Patients With HF

May 2, 2016

Journal Scan | The authors describe the process of developing a tool to assess multidimensional health literacy in patients with heart failure. They report the findings of the initial administration of the tool.

Journal Scan: Addressing an Unmet Need in Systolic HF With Ivabradine

May 2, 2016

Journal Scan | This article reviews several trials regarding the clinical benefits and the role of ivabradine in patients with systolic HF.

Journal Scan: Impact of Nurse-Led, Multidisciplinary, Home-Based Interventions in Chronic Heart Disease

May 2, 2016

Journal Scan | A nurse-led, home-based intervention after hospital discharge for patients with heart disease, with and without heart failure, showed a significant reduction in mortality and unplanned hospitalizations. The greatest impact was seen in the patients between 60 and 82 years of age.

Journal Scan: Analysis of Pharmacists’ Work in a Collaborative Model

May 2, 2016

Journal Scan | Team-based care models including pharmacists to manage hypertension have been highly positive, but the relative value of the pharmacists’ contribution is unknown. This study sought to evaluate the relative value of pharmacists involved in the CAPTION (Collaboration Among Pharmacists & Physicians To Improve Outcomes Now) trial.

Role of KATP Channels in Beneficial Effects of Exercise in Ischemic Heart Failure

March 4, 2016

Journal Scan | Ischemic heart failure is associated with pathological remodeling that affects many intracellular elements, such as sarcolemmal ion channels, which results in disturbed intracellular calcium regulation. Exercise training has been shown to improve intracellular calcium handling by improving the functioning of several intracellular elements. This particular study demonstrates improved upregulation of KATP channel expression with exercise that improves calcium handling and cardiomyocyte tolerance to oxidative stress in ischemic heart failure.

A Day in the Life: Marion McRae, ACNP-BC

March 2, 2016

Marion McRae, ACNP-BC, is a nurse practitioner in the Guerin Family Congenital Heart Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA.

Cardiovascular Team Section Leadership Council Retreat Recap

March 2, 2016

The Cardiovascular (CV) Team Section Leadership Council met Feb. 3 – 4 at Heart House for the inaugural retreat.

A Closer Look at the Benefits of a Statewide STEMI System For Arkansas

February 3, 2016   |   Elizabeth D. Lee, CNS

ACC Chapters

During the 2015 annual meeting of the ACC Arkansas Chapter, cardiologist Barry Tedder, MD, FACC, highlighted the Mission: Lifeline program – an initiative to adopt a statewide ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) system for the state of Arkansas.

Congenital Heart Disease Awareness: Transitioning ACHD Patients Into Specialty Care

February 3, 2016   |   Marion McRae, NP, AACC

Congenital heart disease (CHD) occurs in close to 1 percent of births with over 90 percent living to adulthood. There are now more adults living with CHD than children due to successful surgical and medical treatment over the last six decades.

A Day in the Life: An Interview With Brent N. Reed, PharmD, BCPS-AQ Cardiology

February 3, 2016   |   Brent N Reed, PharmD

Feature Interview

A Day in the Life interview with Brent N. Reed, PharmD, BCPS-AQ Cardiology, an assistant professor at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, and clinical pharmacy specialist in advanced heart failure (HF) and cardiac transplantation at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Journal Scan | Adenosine vs. Regadenoson in Cardiac Stress Testing

January 22, 2016

This article compared the safety of adenosine and regadenoson for outpatient cardiac stress testing. Adenosine was found not only to be safe but also more cost-effective than regadenoson.

Journal Scan | Reduction in Gray Matter Volume Is Related to ADL Performance in Heart Failure

January 22, 2016

Decrease in brain gray matter correlates to cognitive function in patients with heart failure.

Best of ACC.org: Mentoring From FIT to Early Career

December 3, 2015

During the transition from training to practice and beyond, there is no step-by-step plan for success or formula for the perfect career. It is an exciting yet confusing time and it is important to have someone to lean on for support and give advice when needed. Scott Lilly, MD, PhD, FACC, a member of the College’s Early Career Section and an interventional cardiologist, and Arun Kamanthareddy, MD, a first-year fellow in training (FIT), are a good example of such a relationship.

ACC SC Chapter Cultivates New Membership Opportunities

December 2, 2015   |   ;  Jennifer M. Lee, NP, AACC

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The joint ACC North Carolina/South Carolina Chapters Conference, held on Sept. 25 – 26 in beautiful Pinehurst, NC, brought together members of the cardiovascular care team who are making a distinct difference in the lives of others. There has been a concerted effort within the Chapter to attract other talented and resourceful professionals with the benefits membership to the ACC South Carolina Chapter.

Highlights From ACC’s 2015 Legislative Conference

December 2, 2015   |   Jolin V. Honas, NP, AACC

Advocacy at the ACC

The 2015 ACC Legislative Conference was held October 18 – 20 in Washington, DC. The Colorado Delegation brought eight representatives, including five physicians, a fellow in training and a nurse practitioner, who represented six different institutions.

Feature | Summarizing the Role of the Clinical Pharmacist in Cardiovascular Disease Care

December 2, 2015   |   John D Bucheit, PharmD, AACC

Feature Article

In November, a task force of physicians and pharmacists from the ACC published "The Role of the Clinical Pharmacist in the Care of Patients with Cardiovascular Disease" in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. In this document pharmacists are recognized as important yet underutilized members of the cardiovascular care team.

ACC Councils Evaluate the Role of Clinical Pharmacists on the CV Care Team

November 9, 2015

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Clinical pharmacists play an important role for patients on the cardiovascular care team, according to a joint Council Perspective from the Cardiovascular Team Section and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Section published Nov. 2 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The authors note that as a result of advanced training, clinical pharmacists have been associated with decreased costs of care, hospital mortality, drug costs, length of stay and medication error rates.

Feature | Talking to Kids About Heart Healthy Living

November 3, 2015   |   Sharon Levasseur, NP

Feature Article

After many years of working with patients post-cardiac surgery, and then cardiology, and even in cardiac rehabilitation, it became increasingly clear that at least part of the answer to heart disease is preventing it. We need to focus on teaching our communities those things that they can exert some control over, and we need to start early. Secondary prevention is important, but I would rather have less of it to worry about. Wouldn't you? Primary prevention needs to start in the primary grades. I have spoken to high school and junior high school students, and felt perhaps I influenced one or two to make better dietary choices or to quit (or not start) smoking. However, it wasn't until I spoke to students in 2nd, 3rd and 5th grade that I finally realized this.

Cardiology Pharmacy Residency Programs

November 3, 2015   |   Brent N Reed, PharmD

Earlier this year, the ACC released a statement recognizing the importance of cardiovascular team-based care and the need for highly trained team members, including pharmacists. Highlighted in the manuscript was the role of postgraduate residency programs in helping meet this growing demand. Approximately one-third of pharmacists pursue postgraduate residency training, a process that has become highly competitive. In 2014, less than two-thirds of applicants entering the match successfully obtained positions.

Feature | Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Fire Fighters

October 7, 2015   |   Jolin V. Honas, NP, AACC

Feature Article

Ordinary people, extraordinary service. Fire fighters put themselves in harm's way to protect, rescue, and serve. Though they may appear impermeable to harm with a superhero like quality, fire fighters battle a disproportionate risk for cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is the most frequent cause of duty-related fatalities and for every one fatal on-duty heart disease event there are 17 non-fatal ones.

Cardiovascular Team Advanced Practice Registered Nurses Work Group

September 9, 2015

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The Cardiovascular Team Section Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) Work Group would like to solicit the assistance of APRNs who are interested in being more involved with the College.

Feature | Creating the Mayo Clinic's Cardiovascular Nurse Practitioner Fellowship Program

September 9, 2015   |   Deborah S. Croy, DNP, ANP-BC, AGPCNP-BC, FACC

Feature Article

Mayo Clinic's Cardiovascular Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program was recently accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as one of only four Practice Transition Programs and only one of two that addresses advanced practice nursing. The driving force behind the this program is one of ACC's Cardiovascular Team members, Marci Farquhar-Snow MN, ACNP-BC, CCRN, CMC, AACC.

Day in the Life: Profiles of Cardiovascular Team Members

September 9, 2015

Member Profile

See photos of Cardiovascular Team Section members at work and play!

Surviving MI Webinar How to Engage Executive Leadership in Health Care Organizational Culture Change

July 7, 2015

Quality Improvement for Institutions

Join hospital leadership and quality experts on July 21 at 1 p.m. ET for a Surviving MI webinar that will provide administrators and clinicians with strategies for creating a culture of quality to improve patient outcomes.

Download the ACC’s New Statin Intolerance App

June 30, 2015

Quick Reads and Recommendations

The ACC recently launched the Statin Intolerance mobile app to guide clinicians through the process of managing and treating patients who report muscle symptoms while on statin therapy. Clinicians can use the app to evaluate possible intolerance in a patient’s current statin prescription, follow steps to manage and treat patients who report muscle symptoms while taking statins, and compare statin characteristics and drug interactions to inform management of LDL-related risk.

Heart Valve Disease CardioSmart Infographic Available

June 30, 2015

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Heart valve disease can be difficult to explain to patients. To help, ACC’s CardioSmart team has created an informative and vibrant visual to educate patients on the most common valve issues. The heart valve disease poster is available to download for free as a PDF, or CardioSmart can send you an 11” x 17” color copy.

Don't Miss a Special Legislative Conference Pre-Session

June 30, 2015

Save the Date

You're invited to attend the Advocacy Workshop for CV Team Clinicians and Administrators pre-session on Oct. 18 as part of the ACC's 2015 Legislative Conference in Washington, DC. As Congress considers proposals that will shape the future of health care, it is a critical time to come to DC to personally deliver ACC's message.

ACC’s Quality Improvement Efforts Make Headlines

June 21, 2015

Quality Improvement for Institutions

A recent New York Times article titled “A Sea Change in Treating Heart Attacks” highlights the 38 percent decrease in coronary heart disease deaths from 2003 to 2013, a result “spurred by better control of cholesterol and blood pressure, reduced smoking rates, improved medical treatments — and faster care of people in the throes of a heart attack.”

JACC Holds Impact Factor Ranking as #1 CV Journal in the World

June 18, 2015

JACC Family of Journals

For the second year in a row, the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) was listed as the #1 cardiovascular journal in the world. According to the 2014 Impact Factors for Journals, JACC holds the top position among all 123 cardiovascular journals in scientific impact with an impact factor of 16.503 in 2014, which is up from 15.343 in 2013. These 2014 Impact Factor results are based on citations from the 2013 calendar year, when Anthony DeMaria, MD, MACC, was the editor of JACC.

PINNACLE Registry QI Program in India: A Model For Other Resource-Limited Countries?

May 20, 2015

Quality Improvement for Institutions

Programs designed to track and monitor the quality of outpatient care for patients with cardiovascular disease are feasible even in resource-limited environments, according to an analysis of data from the ACC's PINNACLE India Quality Improvement Program (PIQIP) – India's first national outpatient quality-improvement program focused on cardiovascular disease.

Pharmacists Involvement in MI Care: Completing the Team

April 8, 2015   |   Craig J. Beavers, PharmD, FACC

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Through a variety of efforts (check out the toolkit here), clinical pharmacists can utilize their unique skills and advanced knowledge of pharmacotherapy, physical assessment and education to lead to positive outcomes. Data suggest pharmacists increase utilization of evidence-based therapies at proper doses and reduce medication errors and adverse events.

Dark Chocolate: A Cure for Stress?

November 28, 2014

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Beneficial effects of dark chocolate consumption (in moderation, of course) on cardiovascular health have been reported in several studies, with this effect linked to the high levels of polyphenolic flavonoids found in dark chocolate or cocoa. But how, exactly, does flavonoid-rich dark chocolate take a bite out of cardiovascular mortality?

Cardiometabolic Syndrome: A Problem Whose Time Has Come

November 28, 2014

Quick Reads and Recommendations

It's a problem whose time has come," said Scott Grundy, MD, PhD, in kicking off a special Cardiometabolic Think Tank focused on addressing cardiometabolic disease and its interdependencies and identifying a new care model that takes an integrated approach to treating risk factors across diverse populations.

What Are You Doing With Your Registry Data?

November 28, 2014

Quick Reads and Recommendations

The ACC's IMPACT Registry is a vehicle to collect data on all pediatric patients and adult patients with congenital heart disease undergoing diagnostic and interventional catheterization procedures. First and foremost, its key objective is to collect data to identify variability in procedures amongst institutions and operators, link variability to outcomes, assess performance, provide benchmarks and implement quality improvement initiatives.