Program

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Caring for Patients with Inherited Arrythmias: A Multidisciplinary Clinic Approach

May 27, 2023 from 9:45am EDT to 10:15am EDT

This initiative aimed to improve access and streamline care for patients and families affected by inherited arrhythmias (IA) through a multidisciplinary clinic model. Approximately 7000 people in British Columbia (BC) are affected by an inherited heart rhythm disorder putting them at risk for sudden cardiac arrest and/or sudden death. Appropriate and timely diagnostics and interventions are variable due to: unknown genetic variants, complex family history and challenges associated with traveling from rural communities. In 2013, funding was secured through Cardiac Services BC to develop an IA program consisting of 3 provincial sites connecting electrophysiologists, genetic counsellors (GC) and a medical geneticist. The program successfully created common standardized referral systems, diagnostic and treatment recommendations and a national network for collaboration/research. The program coordinator role at our site was led by a GC since inception of the clinic. Program growth created operational challenges such as increased volumes, limited capacity, and retention of specialized GCs in the role of coordinator. In 2021, our site transitioned the coordinator role to a registered nurse (RN) while maintaining a multidisciplinary approach and shared GC responsibilities. Clearly defined role delineation and evaluation metrics were determined at the onset. A collaborative GC and RN clinic model allowed for a shared approach to care demonstrating improved job satisfaction and clinic efficiency resulting in increased access to specialized cardiac care. As the field of cardiogenetics grows, patients and families receiving timely access to specialized care benefit from early detection and follow-up. Nurses play a key role in leading and supporting development of programs designed to care for individuals affected with inherited arrhythmias.

Speakers / Panelists