The American Heart Association has initiated a comprehensive health strategy targeting cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, selecting five metropolitan regions to implement an innovative approach to diagnosing and treating this complex health condition. The selected regions—Atlanta, Baton Rouge, San Diego, Washington D.C. and Maryland, and Ohio—will serve as pilot sites for a collaborative healthcare model designed to address multiple chronic conditions simultaneously.
CKM syndrome represents a significant public health challenge, affecting approximately one-third of U.S. adults who simultaneously experience multiple health risks including high blood pressure, abnormal blood sugar levels, impaired kidney function, and excess body weight. The initiative aims to transform traditional healthcare delivery by promoting an interdisciplinary approach that addresses these interconnected health issues holistically.
Dr. Chiadi Ndumele, chair of the initiative's science advisory group, emphasized the importance of a person-centered care model that transcends individual medical specialties. The approach will integrate primary care clinicians, specialists, patient navigators, social workers, and community health workers to provide comprehensive patient care.
The program will initially target 150 healthcare sites within the selected regions, potentially impacting healthcare for more than 250,000 patients with CKM syndrome. By implementing a standardized framework for tracking health factors, ensuring evidence-based therapies, and connecting patients with community resources, the initiative seeks to improve patient outcomes and reduce the long-term health risks associated with these chronic conditions.
A key innovative aspect of the initiative is its focus on addressing health-related social needs, recognizing that factors such as transportation and prescription affordability can significantly impact patient health. The learning collaborative approach will allow participating organizations to share best practices, troubleshoot challenges, and continuously refine their care models.
The potential implications of this initiative are substantial. By treating CKM syndrome as an interconnected set of health challenges rather than isolated conditions, healthcare providers may develop more effective strategies for prevention, management, and potential reversal of chronic health risks. The initiative represents a significant step toward more integrated, patient-centered healthcare delivery.
Supported by founding sponsors Novo Nordisk and Boehringer Ingelheim, with DaVita recently joining as a sponsor, the initiative plans to expand to 15 geographic regions nationwide. This ambitious project could potentially transform how chronic health conditions are understood, diagnosed, and treated in the United States.
