Contemporary Specialist Care for Rheumatic Heart Disease Meets New Zealand Heart Foundation Recommendations for Most Patients in Tāmaki Makaurau

The World Health Organization endorses registries as a valuable adjunct to managing rheumatic heart disease (RHD). This study evaluated the management of New Zealand RHD Registry patients from 2010 2019 and alignment Heart Foundation Guidelines. A retrospective audit was undertaken 150 in Tāmaki Makaurau, randomly selected Registry, with review frequency specialist follow-up echocardiograms, documentation regarding benzathine penicillin G, dental care, anticoagulation post-surgery. There were 61 individuals moderate 89 severe RHD. Follow-up data available for 128 (85%) who attended one or more appointment. Of these, median duration between appointments 14 months 8 severe, respectively (range years). Mean echocardiograms 21 12 respectively. Benzathine G prophylaxis documented 95 (63%) clinic letters care discussed 99 (66%). Among 46 on warfarin, 13 (39%) had hospitalisations due INR control, bleeding, thrombosis. interval Auckland conforms best practice guidelines; however, wide range 15% no highlight that some are not being seen at timely intervals. treatment most appointments. Hospitalisation complications occurred nearly 40% those highlighting need improved services following mechanical valve surgery.