What is the goal of the ACCF/AHA practice guidelines?
The goal of the ACCF/AHA practice guidelines is to assist healthcare providers in clinical decision-making by describing a range of generally acceptable approaches to the diagnosis, management, and prevention of specific diseases or conditions. The guidelines attempt to define practices that meet the needs of most patients in most circumstances, and the ultimate judgment regarding the care of a particular patient must be made by the healthcare provider and patient in light of all the circumstances presented by that patient. As a result, situations may arise for which deviations from these guidelines may be appropriate.