The Member of Parliament for Mid Sussex, Mims Davies has supported the launch of new resources by the British Heart Foundation to keep constituents informed during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Coronary heart disease was the most common pre-existing condition found among deaths involving Covid-19 that occurred in March, found in 14% of cases and therefore the resources, outlined below, will help patients and their families stay safe and be prepared.
- Heart Helpline – expanded hours mean patients or their loved ones can speak directly with one of BHF's specialist nurses about any queries or concerns any day of the week;
- Coronavirus and you information hub – the latest information and guidance on coronavirus, from its impact on people with heart and circulatory diseases to coping with the loss of a loved one during lockdown;
- HealthUnlocked – an online community where people can connect and support each other and speak to others who have had similar experiences.
Commenting, the Member of Parliament for Mid Sussex, Mims Davies said:
“Covid-19 has caused a lot of stress for all of us, particularly those with underlying health conditions. I encourage constituents with questions to contact British Heart Foundation. Specialist nurses staff their helplines and they have an online support hub too.
“Attendance to A&E for people with suspected heart attacks has dropped by 50% since the start of march and 71% of cardiologists believe people are afraid to visit hospital during the Covid-19 crisis due to fear of being exposed to the virus. A&E services are there for all of us if we need them and I know our hard working NHS staff are making sure those with suspected Covid-19 are treated separately from other patients.
Ends.
Notes to Editors:
The BHF is also directing its’ research efforts to fight the virus directly. Including:
- Supporting researchers, many of whom are doctors and cardiologists, to return to the NHS frontline to fight Covid-19 directly or ensure heart patients continue to receive the care they need;
- Enabling research facilities and infrastructure to be used for vital work such as testing for the virus – a key strategy in moving out of lockdown; and
- Launching a new initiative to identify and support flagship research projects that will help better understand why people with heart and circulatory conditions are at greater risk of Covid-19 and how this can be addressed.