Health and Medical Sociology

Biography

Biography: Christine Machado-Denis

Abstract

Heart disease is among the leading causes of death in the United States and behavioral health plays a signifi cant role in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Lack of healthy behaviors and adherence with medical treatment regimens is oft en at the root of readmission rates. HF patients contribute to high hospital readmission rates nationwide. Due to the increase in hospital readmission rates, Healthcare Management is holding hospitals accountable for patients who are readmitted within thirty days. Research indicates that hospitals are not considered psychological factors contributing to readmission nor are addressing these issues while the patient is within the primary care setting. Twenty-fi ve percent of patients with heart failure experience depressive symptoms. Studies have demonstrated that patients with systolic dysfunction and depression are at higher risk for re-hospitalization. Research demonstrates that left ventricular ejection fraction in heart failure patients with depressive symptoms tends to be less than or equal to 40%. Reduced ejection fraction inherently places patients at increased risk for cognitive impairments, which in turn impairs their ability to adhere to medical regimens. Reduced ejection fraction coupled with preexisting depressive symptomatology creates greater obstacles for patients living with heart failure. Integrating health psychology and creating behavioral cardiology teams have proven to decrease hospital readmission rates and reduce hospital  fines.