A cardiologist at LSMU Kaunas Hospital, Professor Jolanta Laukaitienė, has noted a significant improvement in the diagnosis of heart failure in recent years. Professor Laukaitienė emphasized that early suspicion and the timely initiation of appropriate medical care are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Since 2023, a major advancement has been implemented: if a primary care physician suspects a patient may have heart failure, they can now order a natriuretic peptide test at no cost.
This rapid test, which takes only 10 to 20 minutes, provides a clear indication of whether the patient requires a referral to a cardiologist for further assessment. The diagnostic strength of this test lies in its ability to rule out the presence of heart failure. Professor Laukaitienė stated that if the natriuretic peptide levels—when assessed alongside the patient’s age and kidney function—do not show elevation, it strongly suggests that the patient does not suffer from heart failure.
She highlighted the test’s preventative value, noting that one positive diagnosis can help several others. The expert urged the public that awareness regarding this diagnostic tool is still low. Access to this specialized medicine allows for immediate screening, guiding physicians on the next steps of treatment.
Ultimately, the early and accurate identification of heart failure is paramount, preventing unnecessary delays in receiving necessary care.
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