Sussex NHS trust launch new heart hub to help cardiac patients

Cardiac patients across University Hospitals Sussex, which operates hospitals in Chichester, Worthing, Haywards Heath and Brighton, and beyond can now access ‘reliable, easy-to-understand’ heart health information through a new online ‘heart hub’, developed by patients for patients.

The resource brings together trusted information from leading cardiac organisations and charities in one convenient location, helping people better understand their condition and navigate their care journey.

The Cardiac patients’ heart hub was created following feedback from the Trust’s Cardiac Patients Improvements Group, a team of cardiac patients who work alongside clinical staff to provide a patient perspective on services. Members identified a common challenge faced by many patients: finding trustworthy information online and understanding the medical terminology often used in letters and healthcare communications.

In response, the group worked with Sarah Young, Nurse Consultant in Cardiology, to develop a central information resource that would make credible, patient-focused information easier to access.

Reflecting on the achievement, the project’s clinical lead, Nurse Consultant in Cardiology Sarah Young, said:

“I am very proud of what we have achieved as a group of patients with my leadership. I feel we have listened to the patients and taken actions to help. I am grateful for the time given by the volunteers and the support from our Trust Communications team.”

Usage of the heart hub will be monitored through website analytics, allowing the team to understand which sections patients find most useful. A feedback section has also been built into the site, enabling users to share their experiences and help shape future improvements.