Role of Telemedicine in Improving Guideline-Directed Medical Treatment for Patients with Heart Failure During a Pandemic

Abstract

Guideline-directed medical treatment (GDMT) is the mainstay of treatment for patients with heart failure (HF). Despite compelling evidence, patient and provider adherence to these guidelines remains low. This is mostly due to the complexity of the GDMT regimen and the competing comorbid conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the initiation and maintenance of GDMT and overall care for patients with HF. Telemedicine will erase many of the barriers to appropriate HF care that were present before, during, and long after the COVID-19 pandemic has ended.

Keywords: COVID-19; Guideline medications; Heart failure; Telehealth.