Cardiac care

The management of cardiovascular health across the continuum of care is broad and complex. This continuum includes prevention, screening, diagnosis, acute and ongoing medical care, surgery, rehabilitation and palliative care. Evidence-based care is delivered in a variety of settings by a diverse range of health professionals.

Cardiac services provided through SA Health include:

  • Emergency cardiac care and 24/7 response
  • Diagnostic testing (ECG, echocardiography, stress testing)
  • Interventional cardiology (angioplasty, stenting, TAVI, mitral clip)
  • Cardiac medicine services
  • Cardiac surgery and device implantation
  • Heart failure and arrhythmia management
  • Cardiac rehabilitation and recovery programs

Cardiac rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation is a secondary prevention program delivered by a multidisciplinary team aimed at halting cardiovascular disease progression and optimising patient function. It includes exercise training, health behaviour change, education on lifestyle and medical risk factor management, psychosocial support, and monitoring of cardioprotective medications.

See the SA Health Cardiac Rehabilitation Services Model of Care (PDF 683KB).

Chronic heart failure

Heart failure is a serious condition that affects many Australians and places a heavy burden on our healthcare system. Despite advances in treatment, it remains one of the most common reasons for hospital admission. Special heart failure services bring together doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health staff. These teams give education and support to help people manage their condition. They improve symptoms, quality of life, and reduce hospital visits and deaths.

See the South Australia Heart Failure referral form (PDF 683KB).

Advanced heart failure

Advanced heart failure means the heart is very weak and cannot pump blood well, even with the best medicines. This can cause ongoing symptoms and a higher risk of serious complications. Managing advanced heart failure needs a team approach and sometimes special devices to help the heart, such as:

  • Heart pumps (LVADs) – long-term devices that help the heart pump blood.
  • Pacemakers and defibrillators – keep the heartbeat steady and prevent dangerous rhythms.
  • Resynchronization therapy – helps the heart’s chambers beat in sync.
  • Short-term support devices like Impella or ECMO – used in emergencies when the heart needs extra help.
  • Transplant

These treatments can improve symptoms, reduce hospital visits, and help you live longer.