The Impact Ahead: Closing the Gaps

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Despite medical advances, significant gaps remain in VHD care, including racial disparities, rural access gaps, and provider bias. HeartReach is working to close these gaps through education, screening, and advocacy.

Persistent Disparities:

Racial Disparities:

• Minorities  receive advanced VHD therapies at significantly lower rates than white patients

• Lower referral rates for TAVR and TEER in minority populations

• Unequal access to structural heart programs and specialized care

Rural Access Gaps:

• Limited access to valve programs in non-urban areas

• Patients in rural communities face long travel distances for treatment

• Fewer cardiac specialists available in underserved regions

Provider Knowledge Gaps:

• Many primary care physicians lack awareness of modern VHD treatments

• Outdated perceptions about surgical risk persist

• Underutilization of echocardiography for screening

The Opportunity in Georgia:

Georgia has the potential to save +3,000 lives annually through improved VHD diagnosis and treatment by estimates from HeartReach outreach programs. By focusing on education, community screening, and provider training, we can close the treatment gap and ensure every patient receives life-saving care.

HeartReach's Path Forward:

• Community education and awareness campaigns

• Mobile screening programs in underserved areas

• Provider training and CME programs

• Patient navigation and support services

• Advocacy for equitable access to structural heart programs