Symptoms of heart failure are potentially recurrent and disabling. Almost half of heart failure patients 70 years or older admitted to the hospital will require repeat hospital admission within 90 days. New paradigms using "low-tech" approaches, including a Heart Failure Clinic, can complement "high-tech" approaches to reduce the disability associated with chronic heart failure. Programs that encourage patients to be active partners in their care can improve symptoms and possibly long term outcome.

An advanced nurse clinician focused on clinical issues affecting the heart failure patient can provide care that complements that achieved by a physician alone. Assessment of group patient outcomes can identify directions for patient care that require additional attention. It is also a wonderful way for patients to receive access to education about their condition, become informed or involved in trials of new therapies, and receive better follow-up care. It encourages setting and meeting small goals in lifestyle adjustment (for example, changing one's diet) and correct dosing of all medications.