Multidisciplinary Care Coordination Between Cardiologists, Neurologists Improves Outcomes for Patients With ATTRv

Practical strategies are needed in health centers between cardiologists and oncologists to ensure patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) receive a comprehensive phenotypic workup and optimal care, according to a study being presented at AHA 2024.

Researchers sought enhance multidisciplinary care from cardiology and neurology teams for patients with ATTRv. Cardiologists and neurologists from three amyloidosis centers analyzed two focus groups, completed surveys, and collected patient chart audits to assess disease management and clinical workflows. In audit-feedback sessions, care teams assessed data and developed action plans to mitigate gaps and enhance patient outcomes.

The results of 30 surveys found that only 13% of institutions had referral protocols for neurologic workup of ATTRv, and over half (51%) of providers were neutral or felt care coordination was ineffective. Similarly, the findings of 151 patient charts showed that only 10% of patients completed PN screening to confirm diagnosis.

The researchers noted that cardiologists exhibited heightened commitment to refer newly diagnosed patients to neurologists (39% to 76%) and to communicate with treating neurologists on disease status (44% to 76%).

“Identified gaps prompted practice changing initiatives including an improved intake process with PN screening and EMG referral, enhanced multidisciplinary collaboration to improve referral networks, and educational materials to heighten disease awareness,” the researchers noted of the findings.

Reference

Khouri M, Zyborowicz E, Morgan J, Carter J, Heggen. Multidisciplinary Care Coordination Between Cardiologists and Neurologists Improves Outcomes for Patients with Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis with Polyneuropathy: Results of a Quality Improvement Initiative. Abstract #Su3173. Presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2024; November 16-18, Chicago, Illinois.