The 0800 Heart Help Line

Abstract

COVID19 led to Lockdown Level 4 throughout New Zealand March 2020. A decision was made to expedite an 0800-telephone support line for patients concerned about their Heart Health. The service was multifaceted and was primarily aimed at the general public. After establishing the service, it soon was made available for clinicians and all health professionals for support, guidance, and information regarding all aspects of Heart Health. Content that was created to support the service included: Availability of Communication resources; Education for all the team and availability of the team to man the service during normal working hours; Promotion of service; Data collection and Feedback documentation; Review and update of all current resources on media platforms; Service Awareness including Posters, Brochures; Media releases; Digital Website and Social media updates (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram). To date the service: has received 355 incoming phone calls; has completed 26 outbound or return phone calls; and, has received 91 emails or social media queries from constituents. 472 contacts in total since April 2020. The service has proved to be an excellent resource during these unsettled times. We believe that all people of NZ could benefit from this service. As the service develops, it could become multi- Region focused. Feedback of service to be gathered, reviewed, and used to continue the service’s high standard of care.