Current status of heart failure management in Vietnam

Abstract

Heart failure is a growing public health issue with high mortality and hospitalization rates. Comprehensive management programs are needed to improve outcomes and reduce costs. In Vietnam, there are gaps in guideline-directed medical therapy, lack of a multidisciplinary approach, inadequate patient education, and poor continuity from inpatient to outpatient care. However, management programs are evolving with 29 hospitals having established programs. Initial results show improved use of medications, reduced hospitalizations and mortality, and better quality of life in some programs. Challenges remain around resources, costs, patient diversity, and lack of standardization. Standardization initiatives like EuroHeart are working to define common data sets and care standards internationally. Effective programs require optimized hospital treatment, comprehensive discharge planning, structured follow up, and patient selfmanagement support. Further government support, healthcare professional training, public education, research, and regional collaborations are needed to advance heart failure care in Vietnam.