Heart Support-Australia (HS-A) is unique in being the only national organization providing support for people with heart conditions and their families. The HS-A National Office is based in Canberra, there are 61 branches across Australia, and development is continuous. The central objectives of HS-A are to foster commitment to, and awareness in the Australian community of the needs and interests of the estimated two million Australians affected by cardiovascular disease and to provide support, information and encouragement, and an organized approach to the enhancement of quality of life for those persons.

HS-A programs have been developed to complement medical and allied health professionals in providing support for heart patients. Programs include free lay counseling and peer support services delivered by trained volunteers, walking programs, Internet chat line, and distribution of resources for heart patients and carers.

Self Management Project

The Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing has provided project funding for the development of a best practice, evidence based self-management program for cardiac patients. There is compelling evidence which demonstrates that patients who are involved in the management of their condition are more likely to adhere to medical advice, have a better quality of life, and have fewer acute hospital admissions. Cardiac care is ideal for self-management as the quality of life and likelihood of recurrent attacks is strongly correlated to the patient’s ability to make lifestyle changes by decreasing risk factors, monitoring their symptoms and developing concordant relationships with their health service providers. 

The final report to the Commonwealth on the Self Management Project is available in PDF format by clicking here  

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This page last modified: Wednesday, 31st of May, 2006.