The Heart Foundation wants clinicians to spread the word on CVD risk – and the tests that can identify it – under the banner “An opportunity to start the conversation” during the annual Heart Week promotion.

Starting on 28 April, the campaign is being labelled as a chance for “health professionals….to start a conversation about heart health and the steps needed to reduce the risk of heart disease”.

One lynchpin of the campaign is making GPs aware of the new interim MBS item 699 which allows for a 20 minute CVD risk assessment, which must include;

• taking a patient history identifying risk factors.
• a physical examination, which must include recording of blood pressure.
• initiation of interventions and referrals.
• implementation of a management plan for appropriate treatment.
• provision to patient of preventative health care advice and information, including modifiable lifestyle factors.

The Foundation wants clinicians to promote heart health checks, encourage patients to take them and help them in managing their risk of heart disease and stroke.

The campaign also includes a video presentation by cardiologist Dr Cathie Coleman on CVD risk.

There will also be an interactive webinar on the evening of Tuesday, 30 April with a multidisciplinary panel of experts explaining the importance of the MBS item on absolute CVD risk, their practical implementation and the role of patient engagement.