WASHINGTON, D.C.—American College of Cardiology (ACC) President John Gordon Harold, MD, celebrated the work the college is doing to offer innovative technologies to improve communication and education in cardiology during his presidential address on March 29 at the ACC scientific session in Washington, D.C.
“Today the eyes of the global cardiovascular community are truly upon us,” said Harold, echoing a famous quote from President John F. Kennedy, “and our college at every level must be as a city upon on a hill, constructed and inhabited by individuals aware of their great trust and great responsibilities.”
Harold said the theme of his presidential year was innovation technology and education, with the aim of tapping into new opportunities to connect with cardiology stakeholders. He said the ACC digital strategy to meet current needs and anticipate future changes consisted of three components:
- Improve communication;
- Encourage patient education; and
- Enhance abilities to obtain continuing education at the point of care.
Listing examples of current ACC projects, Harold highlighted a major renovation of CardioSource.org into a more user-friendly home for cardiology professionals.
The CardioSmart Explorer mobile app falls under the category of patient education, and can be used to show patients what conditions look like and the possible treatments. Physicians can show patients their cardiac anatomy, mark up models and email information to patients using the app.
Another app showcased by Harold was the ASCVD (atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease) Risk Estimator, which can aid providers in estimating 10-year and lifetime risks of ASCVD.
Evan joined TriMed in 2011, writing primarily for Health Imaging. Prior to diving into medical journalism, Evan worked for the Nine Network of Public Media in St. Louis. He also has worked in public relations and education. Evan studied journalism at the University of Missouri, with an emphasis on broadcast media.