Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the burden of chronic heart failure patients in France

Abstract Context The COVID-19 pandemic in France has led to the implementation of containment measures, limiting medical activity to urgent care. Heart Failure (HF) patients should have particularly been concerned. During the pandemic, movement restrictions and fear of contamination could have worsened HF patients. Methods We conducted two dedicated anonymous questionnaire completed at the end of the first lockdown period in France about the HF patients'symptoms and the cardiologists'pratice. In parallel, data from the SNDS (Systeme National des Donnees de Sante) were collected concerning the practices of cardiologists. Results Regarding HF patients, 1156 participated and filled the questionnaire. 53% were men, aged 61± 15 yo in men and 53±12 yo in women; 13% declared feeling bad during the pandemic period. 36% declared they had more dyspnea, 14% more oedema, 45% a gain of weight and 57% were more tired. 45% of patients declared having spent more than 4 weeks without any appointment with a medical doctor. Regarding Cardiologists, they proposed to perform a remotely follow-up (teleconsultation including visio, phone call management) in 23% of cases. In parallel, data from the SNDS showed that 19% of cardiologist used teleconsultations. Conclusion Through this original survey, it emerges that despite the HF patients being more symptomatic, cardiological follow-up was difficult and challenging. We suggest that during pandemic, teleconsultations could improve the efficiency and quality of care, reduce demands on patients, and reduce healthcare costs.