Our primary objective is to create a lasting QI framework that will be applicable to a wide range of health systems, with the ability to customize and personalize the approach and methodology to best fit the needs and culture of different organizations.

The Public Health Burden of AF

AF is the most common and serious arrhythmia in the United States and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality:

  • Affects approximately 3 million adults
  • The prevalence of AF is projected to more than double over the next 40 years
  • Patients with AF have a 5‐fold increased risk of stroke
  • An estimated 15% to 20% of all strokes are attributable to AF
  • Death and disability from stroke caused by AF are particularly high
  • More than half of emergency department (ED) visits for patients with AF resulted in hospitalization*
  • AF-related stroke is a substantial and growing public health burden

* Based on weighted estimates from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) National Emergency Department Sample (NEDS).

Our Vision

The Heart Rhythm Society’s organizational vision is “to end death and suffering due to heart rhythm disorders.” This initiative is aligned with the HRS vision, as well as the themes included in the publication: Rationale, considerations, and goals for atrial fibrillation centers of excellence: A Heart Rhythm Society perspective: PMID 32387248. CardiQ AF is the manifestation of that vision and brings many layers of value for patients, health systems, and payers, including:

  • Improved long-term outcomes for patients with AF
  • More standardized approach to care
  • Fewer emergency department visits
  • Better coordinated care
  • Lower costs
  • Tools and resources that promote evidence-based medicine and care process in AF

Our Purpose

Patients are our highest priority. Our ultimate goal is to improve AF patient care and outcomes, including:

  • Reduction of stroke
  • Symptom management
  • Prevention of further complications such as heart failure and cardiomyopathy
  • Improved understanding of AFib for patients and caregivers, especially with regard to the adherence of anticoagulation management

In support of this goal, our primary objective is to create a lasting resource that will be applicable to a wide range of health systems, with the ability to customize and personalize the approach and methodology to best fit the needs and culture of different organizations.

CardiQ is designed to address multiple issues related to the quality of care of AF:

  • Minimize gaps in the delivery of care;
  • Decrease variation in geographic, institutional, and individual care;
  • Reduce the costs of AF care; and
  • Ultimately, improve patient outcomes through a methodology that is sustainable and scalable