Saving Hearts: Warrington’s WIN PCN leads the charge on heart health

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart arrhythmia affecting 1.5 Million people in the UK with an estimated 270,000 undiagnosed. Someone with AF is five times more likely to have a potentially fatal or life-changing stroke.

So, during February’s British Heart Foundation Heart Month, we’re delighted to highlight the work of Warrington Innovation Network Primary Care Network (WIN PCN) which has introduced an initiative to foster proactive cardiac health by screening for AF.?

The aim is to screen for AF across a broader population than possible in the traditional GP clinic setting whilst minimising the use of additional resources.?

WIN PCN is inviting patients aged 51 and above, deemed at cardiovascular risk, to monitor their heart health from home via an application on their smartphone called HealthyYou. The app, developed by Etc. at BT Group's Etc. Health, incorporates Happitech’s CE-certified Class 2a Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) to detect AF.

The initiative has identified over 12,000 patients who will receive a notification from WIN PCN encouraging them to download the HealthYou app and undertake a swift 90-second screening process using their smartphone camera with Happitech’s photoplethysmography (PPG) technology to detect AF.

Digital inclusivity is vital and so for patients without smartphone or internet access. Several WIN PCN practices have purchased a device accessible in reception areas for people to check their heart rhythm in person.?

Positive atrial fibrillation results prompt patients to confirm readings and seek clinical guidance. Additional ECG clinics, ensure prompt follow-up care for high-risk individuals.

There are very effective treatments for AF so early detection and treatment will improve the outcomes for individual patients, help them feel supported and contribute to reducing the burden of heart disease across WIN PCN.??

The WIN PCN initiative highlights the transformative potential of digital health solutions in reaching and safeguarding larger patient groups and transcending traditional clinic boundaries.