News Release

FORT WAYNE — The Parkview Heart Institute has received the American Heart Association’s “Get With the Guidelines – AFib” gold quality achievement award for its commitment to managing atrial fibrillation, commonly called “AFib,” ultimately helping to reduce patients’ stroke risk.

AFib affects millions of Americans, often leading to heart-related complications and increasing the risk for stroke fivefold. However, proper care and treatment can reduce these risks.

The Get With the Guidelines – AFib quality achievement award is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to treating patients according to the most up-to-date, research-based guidelines as outlined by the American Heart Association. Get With the Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest evidence- and research-based guidelines.

The Parkview Heart Institute is devoted to heart health with nearly 20 outpatient specialty clinics, including a dedicated AFib Clinic, which is accredited by the American College of Cardiology. The clinic offers coordinated care for AFib patients, beginning with an evaluation by a heart rhythm specialist and other members of the clinic team. Once a treatment plan is identified, patients receive specialized treatments in one location. The clinic also provides patients with education about their medications, dietary considerations, smoking cessation and physical activities to strengthen their heart function.

Parkview Heart Institute is also in alliance with Cleveland Clinic’s Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute, allowing Parkview clinicians to collaborate and access best practices, emerging technologies and physician expertise.

“Parkview Heart Institute is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” said Dr. Roy Robertson, president of specialty service lines and the Parkview Heart Institute. “Get With the Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more patients can experience longer, healthier lives.”

Each year, program participants qualify for the award by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality AFib care. In addition to following treatment guidelines, Get With the Guidelines participants also educate patients to help them manage their AFib at home.

“We are pleased to recognize Parkview Heart Institute for its commitment to providing high-quality care for persons with atrial fibrillation,” said Dr. Jonathan Piccini, volunteer expert for the American Heart Association and associate professor of medicine and director of cardiac electrophysiology for Duke University Medical Center. “Hospitals that participate in Get With the Guidelines often see improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates — a win for health care systems, families and communities.”