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Heart Failure Clinic

Our mission is to provide comprehensive guideline-directed medical care and empower patients/caregivers with education and resources to enhance self-care in the management of congestive heart failure. 

Our goal is to enroll patients that would benefit from intensified management of HF (Heart Failure) with the goal to increase patient self-efficacy.  We want to “connect the dots for the patient in navigating the heart failure management pathway” with the end goal of improving functionality and quality of life.

For appointments and questions, call us at 678-513-2273.



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Why the Heart Failure Clinic:

It is estimated that 5.8 million people in the United States have congestive heart failure which is the most common discharge diagnosis for hospitalized patients over the age of 65. 

30-40% of those hospitalized with congestive heart failure are readmitted within 6 months. 

Our clinic will be designed to help decrease that rate of readmission with close OP follow-up, intensified medical management including use of IV diuretics (if indicated), and a focus on empowering the patient/caregivers in self-management of their chronic condition.

Finding out that you have heart failure can be difficult. We are here to help you successfully take control of your symptoms and feel better.

Our Program Offers:

  • Video appointments, for your convenience.
  • Personalized treatment plans, which consider your personal needs and goals.
  • Expert support, from clinicians who have experience in helping patients with heart failure.
  • One-on-one health coaching, to assist you with starting and following heart healthy habits. Topics include learning the right foods to eat, how to manage fluid intake, how to include an exercise routine, and other things you can do to stay well.
  • Medication management, to ensure you are on the right medications for you. The team regularly checks if medications are reducing symptoms, improving heart function and potentially slowing progression of the disease.
  • Remote monitoring, with scales and blood pressure cuffs sent to your home.  Any changes to your health can be quickly seen to help and prevent symptoms from worsening.

Testing for HF:

  • Echocardiogram
  • Stress test/PET scan/CCTA
  • EKG
  • Evaluation for device management as appropriate
  • Ability for urgent IV diuresis if applicable
  • Valvular specialist/Electrophysiologist available for consultation as condition warrants

Additional Resources

If you would like to learn more about heart failure and how to live with it, we recommend these trusted sites:

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is heart failure?

Heart failure occurs when the heart doesn't pump blood as well as it should. 

What can I do to stay heart-healthy and reduce my risk of heart issues?

The most important things you can do to prevent further heart issues and live a long, healthy life are:

  • Follow a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, and added sugars. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily or as tolerated. Walking, swimming, and other aerobic exercise promotes heart health.
  • Take all prescribed medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and other conditions.
  • If you smoke, commit to quitting.
  • Limit alcohol intake.
  • Manage stress levels through yoga, meditation, counseling, or other outlets.
  • Get enough quality sleep each night.
  • Keep all follow-up care appointments to monitor your health.

The more diligently you follow heart-healthy lifestyle habits and manage other health conditions, the better you will feel. We are here to provide support and guidance every step of the way.

What causes high blood pressure, and how can I reduce it?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, generally develops over time. Common causes include an unhealthy diet, inactivity, obesity, genetics, diabetes, and kidney disease. Getting your blood pressure checked regularly is essential in diagnosis, as high blood pressure typically has no signs or symptoms until it reaches a point where it becomes a hypertensive crisis. 

Lifestyle changes and medications can help lower your blood pressure. Our doctors will work with you to develop a plan to keep you healthy and feeling well.

What causes heart arrhythmias, and are they dangerous?

Heart arrhythmias occur when the electrical impulses that coordinate your heartbeat become disrupted. There are different types, with some causes including:

  • Heart disease, high blood pressure, or prior heart attack that has damaged the heart’s electrical system
  • Congenital heart abnormalities present from birth
  • Imbalances in electrolytes like sodium, potassium, or magnesium
  • Effects of caffeine, alcohol, medications, or stimulants
  • Physical causes like sleep apnea or thyroid disorders
  • Stress or strenuous exercise

Sometimes, there is no identifiable cause for an arrhythmia. Whether an arrhythmia is dangerous depends on the type, frequency, and one’s overall heart health. Some may cause bothersome symptoms but are otherwise benign. However, certain arrhythmias can significantly raise the risk of stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest. The good news is very effective treatments are available for most arrhythmias.

What are the symptoms of a heart attack?

A heart attack is a serious medical condition. If you suspect you may be having a heart attack, call 911. Common symptoms of a heart attack:

  • Chest pain or discomfort, often described as tightness, pressure, squeezing
  • Pain that radiates to the neck, jaw, shoulders, arms, or back
  • Shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, sweating
  • Abdominal pain
  • Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
  • Fatigue for days leading up to an event

What tests will I need to diagnose my heart condition?

Common diagnostic tests include an EKG, echocardiogram, stress test, CT scan, or cardiac catheterization. The SWCVA team will recommend the appropriate tests based on your symptoms and medical history.

Start Your Self-Assessment

Our mission is to provide comprehensive guideline-directed medical care and empower patients/caregivers with education and resources to enhance self-care in the management of congestive heart failure (HF).

This brief self-assessment helps our specialized team determine if you may benefit from intensified HF management. The assessment consists of a series of questions designed to gauge your current symptoms and management needs. It will only take a few moments to complete.
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