Heart failure management in primary care – the story so far

Increasing rates of coronary heart disease and the increasing longevity of the UK population mean that the number of cases of heart failure seen in general practice is rising rapidly. Simultaneously, this disease area has been recognised by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence, which has published guidelines for its management, and it has been made a target for remuneration under the new General Medical Services contract. This, together with the latest clinical trial evidence, has dramatically changed how heart failure is managed in primary care. Considering these recommendations and the latest clinical trial evidence, a logical management plan for heart failure is suggested.