Heart Zone: for anyone who has a heart

New information resource launched

People in Edinburgh who are living with a heart condition now have a new source of vital information and support. The Heart Zone, which has been developed on Scotland’s national health information website, NHS inform, provides a range of information and resources to support the self-management of heart disease and a range of inherited and congenital heart conditions.

Users of the Heart Zone will find useful tips on reducing risks associated with heart disease and practical advice on what to do in an emergency, and they can also access relevant contacts for support and advice. Additionally, the Zone includes extensive information on tests and treatments, and what to expect when attending a local clinic.

Public Health Minister Maureen Watt, said:  “The Scottish Government recognises the need to increase the range of advice and support  that is available for people in Scotland living with heart conditions, particularly those with congenital heart disease.

“Robust information is key to support the families of newly diagnosed babies as well as existing patients.  Services such as the NHS inform Heart Zone enable people not only to learn about their condition but how they can continue to live as healthy and well as possible.”

Development of the Heart Zone – www.nhsinform.co.uk/heart – has been taken forward by NHS 24’s Scottish Centre for Telehealth and Telecare and Health Information Service.

Professor George Crooks, Director, Scottish Centre for Telehealth and Telecare, said: “Heart disease is the second biggest cause of death in Scotland.  Although family history can be a major factor, other factors such as diet, weight, cholesterol, blood pressure, smoking and blood sugar also play an important role in risk. The Heart Zone provides a range of supportive information to help people to understand and self-manage their heart condition.”

Patient involvement has driven the content of the zone, which has been created by Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland in association with each of Scotland’s regional Health Boards and the British Heart Foundation.

CHSS Director of Advice & Support Margaret Somerville welcomed the launch of the Heart Zone saying, “CHSS is delighted to have worked in partnership with NHS Inform to develop this exciting new resource, which is written in plain language, for people living with heart disease and their families.”

James Cant, Director at BHF Scotland, said: “Understanding your condition is vital in allowing you to take control of your health and better steer your care in partnership with your GP and other healthcare professionals.

“The Heart Zone holds a wealth of good quality information for patients, relatives and carers, and just as importantly has involved these groups in developing content.

“We hope that by giving people what they have asked for, they can feel more encouraged to make positive changes to their lifestyle and reduce their risk of heart and circulatory disease.”