IU Health is kicking off a program aimed at reducing the number of return visits for heart patients.
It is part of the American College of Cardiology‘s "Patient Navigator Program" designed to reduce so-called, "bounce backs" or readmissions.
The latest figures show that about 25 percent of heart attack or heart failure patients return to the hospital within 30 days after their first release.
IU Associate Dean for Clinical Research Dr. Richard Kovacs says the program will pair patients with medical advisors who‘ll remain in touch with patients and guide them after their first visits.
He says the program will function via telephone and online.
IU is one of 11 health facilities nationwide taking part in the pilot program.