A recent survey of more than 800 heart patients found that 87 percent of patients surveyed say their heart condition was a wake-up call – a spur to live a healthier life and focus on what is important. Additionally, patients who are following through with their doctor’s treatment orders reported being more knowledgeable about managing their heart condition. However, almost 30 percent of patients who have experienced a heart event due to a condition known as acute coronary syndrome discontinued at least one of their prescribed heart medications three months after hospital discharge.

Now, a new public education campaign is striking the right chord with patients who have had a heart attack and/or stent placement. The program, called Hearts in Harmony™, provides patients and their families with important information about dealing with both the physical aspects of recovering from a heart event, as well as the often-overlooked emotional aspects of the recovery process.

This campaign is intended to provide patients as well as their family and friends with information and tools that can help them make the most of their second chance. This includes information about the importance of fitness, nutrition, and adhering to therapies as prescribed by their physician.

In addition to encouraging adherence to medication and lifestyle modifications including diet and exercise, what makes the program unique is a focus on the benefits of music therapy and an emphasis on maintaining emotional health during the recovery process.

“Through this program, patients will learn how music therapy can help to reduce stress and may also help to improve recovery during rehabilitation,” says Joanne Loewy, DA, MT-BC, LCAT, director of the Armstrong Music Therapy Program at N.Y.-based Beth Israel Medical Center and Hearts in Harmony expert panel member.

The Hearts in Harmony survey, conducted by GfK Roper, also found that:

• Information may play a critical role in helping patients make the most of their second chance: The vast majority of patients in the survey felt that information about managing heart health-such as learning how to reduce stress or getting ideas for healthy eating and fitness plans-would be helpful.
• Ninety-five percent of patients in the survey believed they had been given a second chance to follow their doctor’s orders.
• Although 72 percent of respondents found it easy to follow the doctor’s orders for taking their medication, only 43 percent found the exercise and nutrition recommendations as simple to follow.

Overall, the survey showed that those who were consistent with their doctor’s recommendations report being happier, healthier and more optimistic than those who falter and fail to follow through. More information can be found here, www.HealthyHeartsInHarmony.com.

Source: Eli Lilly and Company