What are the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for patients with heart failure?
COVID-19 has presented a unique set of challenges and opportunities for patients with heart failure. The Heart Failure Society of America has recommended the use of virtual visits to reduce potential exposure of patients with heart failure to the virus, as well as the implementation of telehealth for management of patients with heart failure. Additionally, cardiac rehabilitation has become an approved diagnosis for heart failure, providing an opportunity for patients to improve their quality of life and reduce their risk of hospitalization or mortality. Finally, clinicians should be aware of potential drug-drug interactions and the implications of increased diuretic dose and route of administration on loop diuretic efficiency when treating patients with heart failure.