February is American Heart Month, a time to pay special attention to understanding, preventing, and treating heart disease – the leading cause of death in the nation.
For individuals facing complex medical conditions, particularly those with both heart disease and other health challenges, Vaya helps play a crucial role in connecting members with critical access to coordinated care and essential resources.
Through proactive intervention, collaboration, and all-around support, Vaya works to bridge the gap between health care systems and individuals and communities we serve to improve overall health outcomes and quality of life.
Bridging the Gap Between Care and Community
Managed care organizations like Vaya serve as a lifeline for individuals navigating chronic illnesses by simplifying access to health care services, transitional care management, and essential support systems.
One of the most impactful ways Vaya works to support heart health is through Physical Health Inpatient Staffing Rounds, which take place three times a week to evaluate and manage complex medical admissions. Since July 2024, these rounds have staffed over 200 cases, demonstrating the effectiveness of a structured, whole-person approach to patient care.
A Case Study in Comprehensive Care: Mr. D’s Journey
One patient’s story illustrates the profound impact of managed care in action. Mr. D, a 54-year-old man with end-stage heart failure, a history of substance use disorder, and housing insecurity, faced significant barriers to receiving life-saving treatment.
Mr. D was initially ineligible for an Implantable Left Ventricular Assist Device – an LVAD, which helps the heart pump blood – due to unstable housing and lack of a support system. But working closely with his care team, he overcame these obstacles.
Through the collaborative efforts of his Transitions to Community Living (TCL) coordinator, hospital team, and managed care resources, Mr. D was able to:
- Achieve six months of sobriety, meeting a key requirement for LVAD candidacy.
- Secure stable housing at Oxford House, where he also found a dedicated support person.
- Engage in AA/NA meetings and receive wraparound medical and social support.
- Successfully undergo LVAD surgery in November 2024, with continued support for post-operative care, transportation, and medication management.
Heart Month serves as a powerful reminder that cardiovascular health is about more than just the heart—it’s about the entire individual, their mental well-being, and their access to the resources needed for long-term success.
By integrating physical health interventions with behavioral health support, housing assistance, and social services, Vaya aims to support a holistic care model that empowers individuals to not only survive, but thrive.
As we continue to recognize and address the challenges faced by individuals like Mr. D, it becomes increasingly clear that strong community health networks save lives.
