„Starkes Herz/Strong heart: integrated health care for patients with history of heart failure in the Kinzigtal region a rural area in South of Germany

摘要

IntroductionCardiovascular diseases are the most cost intensive health conditions in German health care. Heart failure in combination with old age is the most frequent reason for in-patient clinical admission [].The demographic development—in combination with the decline of patient’s access to medical care in rural areas—increases overall health care expenses. Therefore, innovative concepts are needed in order to maintain sufficient medical care.The ‘Gesundes Kinzigtal GmbH’ is a health management organisation for integrated health care that delivers a systematic support program for its members. The goal is an enhancement of participants’ quality of life, a reduction of clinical admission and a reduction in overall health care cost.