CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA—University of Virginia Health System and Bon Secours announced expanded joint clinical programs this week, including new patient care partnerships in cardiovascular services. Their partnership has in the past led to the "introduction of transcatheter mitral valve repair to Bon Secours St. Mary's Hospital in Richmond." The agreement will expand this relationship by developing a shared population health framework.

Takeaways: Healthcare trends are in the news early in 2015 as population health is becoming an all-important buzzword, and the march towards mergers or partnerships, like this one, continues. Stay tuned, we will delve deeper into healthcare trends for 2015 in a blog next week.

The Cardio-Health Diet?

Cardiovascular news this week has read a lot like a health-food blog.

1. A massive Japanese study linked higher intake of fruits and vegetables to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease mortality.
2. A peptide found in fish was discovered to treat cardiovascular diseases by helping to widen or narrow blood vessels and regulate a wide range of biological activities associated with the cardiovascular system. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week.
3. New research out of Florida State University suggests that one cup of blueberries daily can reduce blood pressure and arterial stiffness, both risk factors of cardiovascular disease.

Takeaways: As the trend towards population health continues, staying on top of information like this could be more and more important to cardiovascular professionals, as you may be asked to take on new and different responsibilities within new healthcare frameworks.

The Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals wants you to be prepared for any changes coming your way in 2015. Subscribe to our blog by email to be notified of new posts as soon as they are released.