Championing the Lipid Clinic: A Cost-Effective Solution to the Heart Disease Pandemic

Authors

Bonnie S. Appler, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Cardiology/Lipidology

Advisor

Dr. Tom Colletti

Abstract

A lipid clinic has multileveled benefits to offer. It serves the community, patients, and healthcare providers. But lipid clinics are scarce, underscoring the need for this specialty to be expanded in heretofore underserved communities. Ironically the recognition of these potential benefits is not borne out by the enthusiastic pursuit and support of prevention and lipid clinics. It has been convincingly demonstrated that low-density lipoprotein (LDL) control yields the biggest benefit in both primary and secondary prevention. Yet epidemiological studies highlight a discouraging shortfall in achieving the LDL goals as defined in the published guidelines that are accepted as authoritative in these disciplines. Factors contributing to this shortfall are patient hesitation, lack of provider education, misconceptions amongst patients, providers, and so-called “community watchdog” groups that are active and vocal. But the yield of preventive therapy is far superior to managing the sequelae of the disease. Lipid and prevention clinics are the economical solutions to treating and reducing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in this vast population.

Recommended Citation

Appler BS. Championing the Lipid Clinic: A Cost-Effective Solution to the Heart Disease Pandemic. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2023; 5(1).